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If you’re a fan of Gabriel era Genesis
you’ll find the Italian band The Watch addicting. The often
literate complex melodies and arrangements fall into line
with more mainstream prog of the mid-70’s than just about
anything else I’ve heard. The songs although winding with
nice instrumental passages aren’t designed to just show off
the chops of the musicians involved. The best tracks such
as “Damage Mode” and the two part title track remind me of
Genesis by way of Toy Matinee (the late Kevin Gilbert’s group).
“Goddess” even sounds like it has a hint of Gentle Giant in
the melody and arrangements although it lacks the complexity
that prog group was noted for. ***
The rambling keyboard based compositions
recall Genesis at their peak with Gabriel around the time
of “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway” vs. mid-period Collins
era (“Trick of the Tail”) Genesis. If you’re looking for a
flashback to 1974 this would be the CD for you. The playing
is top notch throughout particularly the keyboards which have
more than a hint of the flair of Tony Banks. Although the
music isn’t particularly original in terms of style the compositions
themselves sound as if the band cloned Gabriel, Hackett, Banks,
Rutherford and Collins and stuck them in a recording studio
together to create the follow up to the band’s magnum opus.
Although not as lyrically adept or memorable as Gabriel’s
work the words are adequate for the songs. It’s a pity that
the band’s lyrical inspiration isn’t quite as sharp as their
musical inspiration. ---
Final Words: Although The Watch
isn’t particularly original sounding their songs are enjoyable
and recall Genesis when they were in top form with Gabriel
at the helm. Musically the playing is impeccable and the production
even captures the flavor of 1974 with touches that you might
have heard on Genesis’ albums at the time. If you’re looking
for something groundbreaking and original like Porcupine Tree
then you’re looking in the wrong place.
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