CITIZEN CAIN - SOMEWHERE BUT YESTERDAY - 1994

Over the years there have been quite a few bands who have been compared to Genesis. Marillion for one, mainly because of Fish's voice, which is quite similar to Peter Gabriel's, and also because of Mark Kelly's keyboards. His playing style in the early days was remarkably similar to Tony Banks's. Then you have IQ, who lots of fans seem to think are in the Genesis vein, although I myself think the similarities are tenuous at best. The Nightwatch are another band often included in that group. And I have to admit they are quite Genesis-like at times, especially through the vocals and guitar work. However, Genesis are unique, and there is not a band in the world who can quite match them for their very Olde English sound, though many have tried, consciously or unconsciously. They are still, after all these years, my favourite prog band ever. The beauty of the lyrics, the mystery in Gabriel's voice, and the total togetherness of the band, all excellent musicians, is yet to be equalled in my book. Genesis are Genesis and other bands are, well, other bands. Now, having said that, I have to say that Citizen Cain, whilst not being Genesis, are undoubtedly the nearest thing to them that I have heard. The vocals of Cyrus are uncannily like Gabriel, and I have never heard a keyboard player play in such a Banksian style as Stuart Bell. Bass and drums are firmly in the Genesis mould, and the guitar, whilst not quite being Hackettish, is played at times in a similar style, especially in the phrasing. The songs on this album are all excellent; long, and complex, but each with an underlying melody. Their structure is definitely in the Genesis style, and even lyrically, they are not unlike their heroes. Don't get me wrong, you can tell instantly that this is not Genesis, and, overall, the songs are more aggressive, and not quite as beautiful melodically. Occasionally the vocals become a little too strong for the music and the whole thing almost goes off key. But in the end it always comes back. The question I usually ask myself when listening to Genesis-like bands is: can I imagine Genesis playing these songs? And, on this album, the answer is - in parts, yes. The Genesis albums that most come to mind here are 'Selling England By The Pound' and 'The Lamb'. This could easily have been recorded around that time. And the songs are so strong and interesting that, if Genesis had never existed, this album would be hailed as a classic, standing up easily on its own merits. It is simply a bloody good record and deserves to be listened to. Do I recommend it? Well, if you are a Genesis fan who can't bare to think of other groups emulating your favourites, then the answer would be no. But, if you are a Genesis fan yearning for more music in that style, to fill the gap left by the demise of your favourites, then the answer is, undoubtedly and wholeheartedly, yes!!! Four stars easily, and, as a future classic that should stand the test of time, five stars ultimately. Just listen to those keyboards, superbly and innovatively played. If only Tony Banks played like that now! Highly recommended.
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