Is Foxtrot a good place to start with Genesis?

Yes, Foxtrot is recommended as a starting point for new Genesis listeners. A sprawling epic of progressive rock that intertwines complex narratives with lush instrumental passages and theatrical vocal performances. By the time 'Foxtrot' was released on October 6, 1972, Genesis had already established themselves as a significant force in the progressive rock scene with their previous album, 'Nursery Cryme'. This record marked their artistic maturation, showcasing extended compositions and ambitious storytelling that set the stage for their future commercial success.

Foxtrot works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and theatrical storytelling experiences.

How many songs are on Foxtrot?

Foxtrot has 6 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Released 54 years ago this October

Foxtrot

Genesis · 1972

51 min · 6 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling epic of progressive rock that intertwines complex narratives with lush instrumental passages and theatrical vocal performances.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Watcher of the Skies Start here — This opening track sets an otherworldly tone with its celestial themes and intricate instrumentation, embodying the band's signature sound.
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Get ’Em Out by Friday — A narrative-driven piece that critiques societal issues, this track showcases Genesis's ability to blend storytelling with complex musical structures.
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Supper’s Ready — As the centerpiece of the album, this 22-minute opus exemplifies the band's theatricality and musical ambition, weaving multiple themes into a cohesive journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

Foxtrot showcases intricate compositions and strong performances, solidifying Genesis's place in progressive rock.

What we noticed

The album features extended tracks, with 'Supper's Ready' spanning over 22 minutes and incorporating multiple distinct sections.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
theatrical storytelling experiences
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Helped solidify Genesis’s reputation in progressive rock after previous successes.
Themes: celestial narratives· societal critique· theatrical ambition
Moods: Introspective· Dreamy
Career context: By the time 'Foxtrot' was released on October 6, 1972, Genesis had already established themselves as a significant force in the progressive rock scene with their previous album, 'Nursery Cryme'. This record marked their artistic maturation, showcasing extended compositions and ambitious storytelling that set the stage for their future commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors: Yes· Emerson, Lake & Palmer· King Crimson

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Supper’s Ready

The climax shifts from an overture of chaos to a serene moment reflecting on love and unity amidst turmoil.

This structural contrast not only amplifies the emotional weight but also highlights Genesis's skill in crafting dynamic narratives within their music.