Abacab cover

Abacab

Genesis · 1981

46 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock · art rock · soft rock

A vibrant blend of pop sensibilities and progressive rock's intricate arrangements, showcasing Genesis's evolving sound.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic emotional journeys long, immersive listening sessions layered, dense sonic textures
Context
When 'Abacab' was released in September 1981, Genesis was transitioning into a more commercially accessible sound following the departure of Peter Gabriel. This album marked their first collaboration with producer Hugh Padgham, who helped shape their new direction with a focus on radio-friendly tracks. The success of this record solidified Genesis's position as a leading band in the 1980s music scene.
If you like
progressive rock, art rock, soft rock

Abacab is an album by Genesis, released in 1981. A vibrant blend of pop sensibilities and progressive rock's intricate arrangements, showcasing Genesis's evolving sound. Upon its release, 'Abacab' reached number 1 on the UK Albums Chart and peaked at number 26 on the US Billboard 200. The title track became one of their most recognizable songs, showcasing the band's shift towards a more mainstream sound that resonated with a broader audience. This album played a significant role in defining the sound of progressive pop during its time. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Abacab sound like?

A vibrant blend of pop sensibilities and progressive rock's intricate arrangements, showcasing Genesis's evolving sound. Rooted in progressive rock and art rock.

What makes Abacab by Genesis notable?

Upon its release, 'Abacab' reached number 1 on the UK Albums Chart and peaked at number 26 on the US Billboard 200. The title track became one of their most recognizable songs, showcasing the band's shift towards a more mainstream sound that resonated with a broader audience. This album played a significant role in defining the sound of progressive pop during its time. When 'Abacab' was released in September 1981, Genesis was transitioning into a more commercially accessible sound following the departure of Peter Gabriel. This album marked their first collaboration with producer Hugh Padgham, who helped shape their new direction with a focus on radio-friendly tracks. The success of this record solidified Genesis's position as a leading band in the 1980s music scene.

Who is Abacab for?

Abacab works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on Abacab?

Abacab has 9 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

Tracklist

9 tracks·46:43

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Abacab Standout 6:58
  • 2 No Reply at All Standout 4:39
  • 3 Me and Sarah Jane 5:59
  • 4 Keep It Dark 4:31
  • 5 Dodo / Lurker 7:29
  • 6 Who Dunnit? 3:24
  • 7 Man on the Corner Standout 4:25
  • 8 Like It or Not 4:52
  • 9 Another Record 4:21

Release Date

September 14, 1981

Genre

art rock, progressive rock, soft rock

More albums in soft rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

46 min 43 sec