The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway cover

The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway

Genesis · 1974

94 min · 23 tracks · progressive rock

A theatrical odyssey intertwining surreal narratives with intricate melodies and expansive soundscapes, embodying the essence of progressive rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway Start here — This opening track sets the stage for the entire concept of the album, introducing listeners to the protagonist’s journey through vivid imagery and complex arrangements.
  • →
    Carpet Crawlers — This song encapsulates themes of searching for meaning and existential questions, making it a poignant moment that resonates with listeners beyond the album's narrative.
  • →
    The Colony of Slippermen: Arrival / A Visit to the Doktor / Raven — A multi-part suite that showcases Genesis's trademark blend of storytelling and musicianship, this track exemplifies the album's theatricality and emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

82 /100
Summit
Higher than 100% of albums we've rated

This album showcases intricate compositions and cohesive storytelling, solidifying its place in progressive rock.

What we noticed

  • The album features a continuous narrative that spans across its tracks, with thematic elements connecting each piece.
  • The use of varied instrumentation, including synthesizers and orchestral elements, enhances the expansive soundscapes throughout the record.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
9/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
9/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • theatrical storytelling through sound
  • dynamic journey with varied pacing
  • surreal exploration of urban landscapes
  • immersive experience for attentive listeners
  • patient unfolding of narrative arcs

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — A landmark album showcasing ambitious narratives and sound, pivotal for progressive rock.
Moods
Dreamy· Dark
Career context
Released in 1974, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway was Genesis's sixth studio album and their final project featuring frontman Peter Gabriel. This ambitious double album marked a significant turning point, showcasing the band's artistic direction towards more concept-driven music and elaborate storytelling, while also highlighting Gabriel's departure from the group shortly after its release.
Stylistic neighbors
Yes· Emerson, Lake & Palmer· King Crimson
New to Genesis? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway Start here 4:47
  • 2 Fly on a Windshield 4:22
  • 3 Broadway Melody of 1974 0:32
  • 4 Cuckoo Cocoon 2:10
  • 5 In the Cage 8:14
  • 6 The Grand Parade of Lifeless Packaging 2:46
  • 7 Back in N.Y.C. 5:43
  • 8 Hairless Heart 2:09
  • 9 Counting Out Time 3:41
  • 10 Carpet Crawlers 5:14
  • 11 The Chamber of 32 Doors 5:39

Disc 2

  • 1 Lilywhite Lilith 2:44
  • 2 The Waiting Room 5:21
  • 3 Anyway 3:07
  • 4 Here Comes the Supernatural Anaesthetist 2:59
  • 5 The Lamia 6:56
  • 6 Silent Sorrow in Empty Boats 3:06
  • 7 The Colony of Slippermen: Arrival / A Visit to the Doktor / Raven 8:12
  • 8 Ravine 2:03
  • 9 The Light Dies Down on Broadway 3:32
  • 10 Riding the Scree 3:56
  • 11 In the Rapids 2:29
  • 12 It 4:13

What to play next

Wind & Wuthering
Listen next

Wind & Wuthering

1976

Continues the progressive sound with rich melodies and emotional depth.
Selling England by the Pound
Go back to

Selling England by the Pound

1973

Sets the stage with similar theatrical elements and intricate compositions.
Full Genesis discography Where to start with Genesis Artists like Genesis
art rock progressive rock soft rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Close to the Edge

Close to the Edge

Yes

Features intricate compositions and surreal lyrical themes, echoing the expansive soundscapes of Genesis.

The Dark Side of the Moon

The Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd

Shares a theatrical narrative approach and lush sonic textures, creating a similar immersive experience.

In the Court of the Crimson King

In the Court of the Crimson King

King Crimson

Combines complex structures with vivid storytelling, resonating with the artistic ambition of Genesis.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata