I love the whole song, from the beginning, how each part goes to the next, how it all flows together, climaxes in 9/8 and then brings it all back home in the “Eggs” section at the end. I love how the melodies in the beginning come back at the end to tie it all together, all the melodic passages, the lyrics, the vocals, the musicianship, just everything. It’s a masterpiece. Peter Gabriel outdid himself on the vocals here in terms of passion and pure energy but there’s so much brilliance in the team effort, it’s magical. I’m not so much into dissecting the parts into which are my favorite moments because it’s a little too much like ignoring most of a painting because you liked the colors better in one part of the painting than another. What Genesis did so brilliantly was create and release tension both melodically and rhythmically. You have to take the whole journey through all the hills and valleys before you can get to the top of a mountain, and getting there is sometimes more important than being there, if this analogy makes any sense. It’s really how it all fits together and becomes a whole that matters more to me than all the parts, and how it makes you feel. Of course I love “A flower?” too! The point is you are going to feel different things in different parts as it moves from beginning to end. That’s what Genesis intended. You need to see “Supper’s Ready” performed live to feel the full impact of it. You simply have not really heard it until it’s coursed through your body and enveloped your senses in a live setting. It’s such a euphoric high ... which you must experience for yourself. The only thing that bothers me is Hackett’s solo at the end is too short on the studio version. I know they had to condense it to fit it on side 2, so I can’t blame the band but because I’ve heard the extended version, I feel cheated! Live, Hackett adds another 4-5 minutes for his solo, and it’s always spectacular! Try to watch his Royal Albert Hall 2013 video. It’s not as good as being there, but it’ll do until you can see him and his band play it live. 💕 You’ve now been “Genesised!” There’s no going back ... but who would want to? 😎 Merry Christmas to all!
I first heard this when it was released in 1972 and I have been regularly listening to it for the subsequent 47 years, I can honestly say that I still get goose pimples (bumps) every single time I hear it. It’s just perfect.
It's a great habit to get into and so easy nowadays (Alexa, what's the definition of "superfluous"). Something I try to get my kids to do though it's an uphill battle.
@@daneng3641, when I was in primary (elementary) school, I asked my teacher what a word meant. She told me to look it up in the dictionary. Then she explained, "if I tell you, you won't remember but if you look it up yourself, you won't forget".
Yeah, Supper's Ready is constantly on the move; constantly surprising you. The very first word is "Walking" so it begins with movement. And then, throughout its running time, it twists and turns and throws you off and about, while constantly building towards the roar of the climax. It's clever, funny, inventive and very powerful music, and I'm glad that Genesis only made one of these, because it makes it all the more unique and special.
It's a musical adventure for sure. I think the biggest thing I can say about SR is that after so many years of listening to it, it never gets boring and the musical changes and progressions throughout the track still excite me. I love the way it builds the emotion and drama, before what must surely be one of the most euphoric endings ever. The greatest Prog songs are always about journeys and SR is the ultimate roadtrip.
Great breakdown of a great song. I remember when I was 18 or so and I had my first "grown up" job, I would always play this song every morning while having breakfast. It was a great start to the day, and I can remember that various different sections would pop into my head throughout the day and it would get me through the boring moments of a rather monotonous job.
Supper's Ready live is a masterpiece with Phil Collins on vocals on their album Seconds Out. And, although you have reacted to this I would love to hear your reaction to the live version and your review of the differing vocal styles between Collins and Gabriel. I think the live version will blow you away. x
To get an idea of what Supper's Ready sounds like live, go see Steve Hackett some time next year. He's planning to do Seconds Out in its entirety, including Supper's Ready.
In the US, Steve will be playing Second’s Out in 2021. The SO tour starts in the UK in November 2020. Steve will be in the US in March continuing the Selling England tour. I keep trying to get Justin to say he’ll go but he hasn’t committed yet! Hint, hint .. 😂
It occurred to me this morning that for many people hearing this song for the first time, the opening line might make no sense at all. "Picking up the remote control, I turn the television off" scans the same way but loses a lot.
I was a Genesis fan starting at around age 13/14...first concert was The Lamb in 1975...Still a Genesis Fan...saw Musical Box....a MUST SEE TRIBUTE BAND, btw.....Love Gabriel and it's a pleasure seeing younger people realize now what I was espousing so many years ago when they were more of an unknown "Bible"? Band LOL!!!!
The sad passage before Willow Farm reminds me of a nightmare I had years ago where I was in a building and found a vast stairwell that poured fearful sadness in the form of music. "A flower?" is like waking from that nightmare, small wonder why it is such a favorite!
For me , this song is the Band producing a complete novel in the form of a piece of music. In terms of structure and narrative power, it's a tremendous piece.
Flute solo is my favorite part too. The moment that the military style snare drum plays is like the ultimate moment for me. I catch myself "conducting the orchestra" in the car when that comes on all the time.
@@JustJP I just watched Steve Hackett's Genesis Revisited at Hammersmith Odeon again and as always, Supper's Ready gives me chills and brings me near to tears with its beauty. I realized that the Chimes towards the end of "Apocalypse" and the beginning of "Eggs" is my second favorite part. Its the perfect bookend to the the beginning of Apocalypse with that beautiful flute.
Since you ask so nicely… there's a specific bit I just love, and it's in Willow Farm. I adore the shift into 'feel your body melt' as they kick the tempo up another notch and get even bouncier, and then the bit is the little high pitched bass guitar 'boop!' in the bassline. Dad diddley office, dad diddley office (boop!) you're all full of ball! I don't know why that gets me so hard, but I just love it :)
For me the greatest moment of many great moments is near the end with the chimes "...and it's hello babe...". Give me chills just thinking about it. I do like that you pick the flute section. I heard in an interview with Peter that he wasn't much of a flutist, but added it in whenever he could so he wouldn't be the only one without an instrument onstage. You have to admire that the flute sections were always so very well chosen. He's no Ian Anderson, but give me a well constructed flute interlude over a rocking flute solo.
Some musicians use the term ' padding" when referring to extra , unnecessary filler material, Lol....easier to say. You are bang on, Supper's Ready has no padding.....I think this the greatest epic piece of Rock ever made. I also was really pulled into the first live release, Genesis Live. This captured the magic vibe of this period of the band. The tracks Watcher of the Skies Get em out by Friday Return of the Giant Hogweed The Musical Box The Knife Perhaps even on your own time, give it a listen. The Musical Box is devastatingly powerful live
I agree with everything you said about this song. It is a perfect song. Apocalypse in 9/8 is my favorite section also. It's so powerful. One of the greatest moments in Genesis. Now to hear your thoughts on Foxtrot!
As a follow up watch the live performance on live video around '72/'73 to eee just how talented these guys are playing this complex piece from start to finish. It's breathtaking particularly for me how Rutherford and Hackett on guitars perform with such detail and skill.
Never came back to hear this review until now! Completely agree with your assessment of Gabriel's vocal performance on this song. As I have heard this more and more, Peter's singing stands out more and more. The whole concept of putting the Book of Revelation into music (I believe it is Gabriel's idea) is brilliant, using the story to illustrate the battle and victory of Good over Evil. Genesis is musical drama.
Loved your analysis.Been blessed to listen to this for half a century, hope many more get the enjoyment. Steve Hackett still performs this in concert.Highly Recomended.
Good morning Justin and a very Merry Christmas to you and yours. First off let me begin by saying how much I appreciate your insightful review of a band and a song I hold very dear. I’m in my mid 60’s and have had the great pleasure of seeing Genesis twice with Gabriel. Your reviews and analysis are important for the future history of music, for mark my words in a hundred years from now this music will be studied in music theory classes as Mozart and Bach are studied today
Justin This song melds a love affair - how it was affected by an ordeal of Biblical proportions and with the battle for good and evil - it is straight out of the book of Revelation. I also love the second flute interlude of foreboding right before the chaos. You really nailed this and I am so glad you enjoy SUpper’s Ready. So many “first reaction” reviews just get a big face reaction and do not have any deeper insights It’s great to see what you like Genesis was a group that couldn’t get arrested - proper uptight english lads But Gabriel always threw in the humorous twist like Willow Farm Thank you
Apocalypse is my fav section too. It's very complex musically, and has a lot of different things going on. There are videos of people playing (or trying to) Apocalypse on drums, keyboards, guitar, and also tutorials with the sheet music, so you can follow along. After seeing a few of these, you can probably appreciate much more what a masterpiece it really is. And to think, they were all 21 - 23 years old when they composed it.
Interesting that you choose the flute part as a stand-out moment and comment on its tranquil quality. Yes, it is tranquil, but there is that underlying sense of something darker at work. It's this kind of subtlety that Genesis were able to bring in these sorts of moments which, for me, set them aside from their counterparts. For me, my 'moment' would have to be the reprise of Lover's Leap which takes us into the glorious final section. It's like we've all come back home when we're listening to it. To quote your good self, a musical masterpiece! Wishing you and yours an amazing 2020 and thanks for all the love. Cheers!
@@JustJP indeed, it just has to be the huge emotional climax of 'and it's hey babe..' for me.. For me, Supper's Ready is almost a calling to mankind.. A quite extraordinary piece of music..
Each of the elements that you noted on the song being climaxes, I approve! This tells me that you are ready to attack the album The Lamb Lies down on Broadway. It will not be a 98.9% delight, but I guarantee you an unbelievable journey on the work of Genesis (Gabriel Period).
My fave performance: Phil on Apocalypse. Fave lyric: Look, look into my mouth he cries, And all the children lost down many paths, I bet my life you'll walk inside, Hand in hand, gland in gland, With a spoonful of miracle, He's the guaranteed eternal sanctuary man. Fave moment: "A flower?"!!! Fave section: Apocalypse. Nice one JP, it's been a treat. From watching you and your mate react to Firth of Fifth, I knew this album, and this song in particular, was for you. And yeah, it's impossible not to listen to the whole song once you've started. It drags you in instantly. Merry Christmas everyone!! Stuff your faces and get sloshed!!
I agree with a lot, but I would have put Hackett’s weeping guitar lines in Eggs as a runner up for favourite moment as well. The release and majesty of that section would not work half as well without those lines.
Happy Holidaze JP for me the star of this song and Genesis is Tony Banks. No one else uses chords the way he does, and unlike Rick Wakeman, Banks knows when to un-cork it and when to keep it in the bottle when it comes to soloing. I do like YES but Banks is who puts Genesis over the top of every other band for me.
My only disagreement is during Apocalypse in 9/8. Banks plays his solo in 4, while the music is in 9. I never understood why. Normally I'd say that's because he just can't handle odd times very well, but that doesn't fit with Banks. That makes me think he consciously chose to play this solo in a different time. I just don't understand that choice. He could've been huge with a 9/8 solo.
@@benrichardson7306 That part of the song it about conflict, no better way to illustrate that than have an odd and even time signature battling it out. As a drummer myself i could not imagine a more difficult task than playing a solo like that against such a strong rhythm. So it has to be a deliberate choice. Tony Banks has always done those sorts of things playing fast over a slow bit and vice versa for contrast. They try to create an atmosphere through music my favorite example is the keyboard solo from "Your Own Special Way" I've often heard it described as boring, meandering and not really going anywhere, but if you take the lyrics of the song he is recreating the mood of the lyrics perfectly. I was in the Navy and out to sea away from my wife and kids for extended periods of time while on deployment that song in everyway captures that feeling. That's what they do better than anyone they create atmospheres.
E Higgins Phil Collins literally said Tony Banks was the heart and soul of Genesis. He’s such a great composer with incredible chord and melodic sensibilities.
@@justintime42000 absolutely! Also when Phil was asked about if he was responsible for Genesis doing pop he said "Try making Tony do something he doesn't want to do.".
Great review of this masterwork of Supper’s Ready! Two quick things, as previously mentioned the version of the song with Phil singing on seconds out is a fantastic version of the song but will always be compared with the original which is the gold standard. Do yourself a favor and follow Steve Hackett who is the only member of the band who does Genesis (the progressive era) music with a phenomenal band, he recently toured Europe and the States playing the entire album Selling England by the Pound and a few other Genesis songs as well as his solo material which is great as well! I’ve seen him on the last three tours and he is fantastic.
@@JustJP Do yourself a favor and go on Amazon and purchase the live DVD of either Steve Hackett and Genesis Revisited at Royal Albert Hall or Live at Hammersmith Odeon. I watch the Hammersmith DVD about once a month. You'll love the Fifth of Firth too. And Watcher. And Afterglow. And Blood on the Rooftops............
Its’s the way to go, musical pieces like this needs time to digest unless you’re a solid trained musician. For the rest of us, we need time to appreciate it. BTW there is a part that was written as a separate piece, and they decided to include it here. And this digestion process is what I like for most of prog rock pieces
Debo decir que este ha sido un regalo de navidad , coincido en tu análisis de esta obra , la voz de Gabriel es única e irrepetible con la intensidad y emoción de este tema , Tony Banks demuestra que es el alma de Genesis , 9/8 es épico, Y suena maravillosamente ajustado y unido el grupo, Feliz Navidad para tí y la comunidad , Gracias por tu honestidad al resaltar esta obra monumental.
Good review! interesting comments! I don't know how many times and how many live versions of this song I listened to and I still love it! Live version from 1973 at the Rainbow (archive 1) is good and it's with PG. I personally prefers PG's versions because he has more personal connection with the lyrics and the melody. Still, Seconds Out version is good too with PC. About the guitar work, the opening section is played by 3 guitars (Steve, Mike and Tony). They did it again with the opening of Cinema Show. Merry Christmas!
I always felt that this song rivalled Stairway to Heaven as the great epic treasure of the seventies. I find that there is a thematic connection between the two. They both express a spiritual crisis and both have the sense of being drawn toward some final, ineffable Union... but Supper's Ready speaks to me much more deeply and the resolution of a final, long awaited union, that the whole meaning of this vast tangled drama of Creation is this single act ; a hand reaching across eternity to grasp the hand of the beloved reaching back...
In addition to the "Seconds Out" live version with Collins singing Genesis also released a live Gabriel version on the "Archive 1967-1975" set. Yes this is on film so you can see them perform it and yeah Gabriel was shaving his head up the middle for some reason. ua-cam.com/video/vmgQjMGgB9o/v-deo.html
Merry Christmas JP. You’re correct. It is a perfect song and to be listened in its full. You can maybe see Horizons as the build-up of the song. Wish you now could do a full review in same fashion of Nursery Cryme and then thereafter Selling England by the Pound. No hurry but it would be appreciated by me and many.
Great review, Justin. For me, my PPS would have been 100%. Not a single second that I don't like. If there is an imperfection in this song, it's that it is not long enough....lol
Your work, for me, has the 99.8 percent of credibility and fiabilidad (I don’t know the word in English, sorry, dude) . The other 0.2 percent is just because. Thank u man, really.
Thanks for this JP, great reaction video, great final thoughts video, great and special day for releasing the video of this very special and great song, been listening to Suppers Ready for years I never get bored of it and still hear new parts that surprise me even to this day, still play this song to Gabriel era Genesis virgins who have are open minded enough to appreciate the magnificents of this amazing song and it still drops jaws, I played it to my son when he was 16 and into hip hop it changed his musical direction and it has now become one of his all time favourite songs and at 24 he now plays it to his mates. Favourite moment : the begining, the end and everything in the middle. Favourite lyric : the begining, the end and everything in the middle. Favourite section : the begining, the end and everything in the middle. Although Foxtrot and Suppers Ready was a hard act to follow they then came up with Selling England and The Lamb which are just amazing, a real golden era for Genesis. Next Genesis album = Selling England or The Lamb please, oh sod it or Nursery Cryme or Trespass.
Agree essentially in total. The what you don't like seems trivial and compelled to have a don't like but hey; you're entitled to making this point, right? Good work, I appreciate your analysis here as other videos.
Might be interesting to listen to Van Der draaf Generator: "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers". Genesis in the early days were their support-act. They shared a rehearsel room together.. Van Der Graaf is a little darker and more progressive. But Brilliant. Because you liked the 9/8 part; you'd probably appreciate this Really love your analysis btw. ! Loved the recent one about Hackett.
First time I've heard this... Wow. I've suggested it before, but if you appreciate Apopcalyptic themed music, I highly, I highly suggest Vangelis' band Aphrodite's Child's masterpiece 666 (The Apocalypse of John, 13/18). It's yet another concept album, so a full listen is in order, but some sections may not be appropriate for the channel, due to language in one song, and the vocals in another. If you can get ahold of the Greek extended vinyl release, even better. As a practicing Jew, I'm certain many of the themes of this album fly way over my head. Yet, I still enjoy it musically. But, even if you choose not to feature it on the channel, I strongly suggest it for personal listening.
Amazing review of arguably the best song I've ever heard. Ya apocalypse in 9/8 has gotta be the best section. For best performance id give it to either Banks or Gabriel, hard to decide. Best line is probably "666 is no longer alone..." its just so menacing. That flute solo is incredible, i gotta say best moment is probably the last few minutes. Damn that PPS thing is pretty cool. Ive come up with formulas to rate albums, its really nerdy but basically what I do is I give each song a rating out of 5 on 6 categories: Vocals (20%), lyrics, (10%) Instrumentation (30%), Creativity(15%), fit on to album/replayability(10%), and overall score (15%) so i calculate a score for each song then weigh it by song length for example if a song takes up 20% of an albums length its score is multiplied by 0.2. Then I add up all the scores to get the final album score. Lol i realize its pointless, but its really fun to do once in a while
@@JustJP lol exactly! By the way I highly recommend the live version of suppers ready by Steve Hackett and the band todmobile. It has a full orchestra in the background giving it a more epic feel. It's amazing a must watch
thanks for the analysis, Justin! about build-up - you can count 'Horisons' as sort of intermezzo before the supper, and also the first part of the song is quite calm, so some additional build-up looks unneccesary to me here
Pythagoras with the looking glass reflects the full moon,, In blood,...he's writing the lyrics Of a brand new tune......and it's, Hey babe ,with your guardian eyes So blue, Hey babe,? Don't you know our love is true....
So is Supper's Ready your favorite Prog piece? Is it your favorite piece of music in general? Just curious. Close to the Edge is my favorite piece of music. I'm not sure where I rank this, now that I've listened to it a few times. It definitely makes my top 40 list, but so far I'm still not blown away by it. I still like Firth of Fifth more. I really enjoyed writing that article, ranking my top 40 favorite pieces of Prog that's at least 8 minutes in length. Without that 8 minute qualifier, I don't think I could've done it. Just way too many shorter pieces. Would've needed to do a top 100 and that would've taken forever, lol. Something you might find interesting, #40 on my list is 'The Lizard Suite' by King Crimson. That piece has let me know that it's staying at #40, no matter what, so if I ever update my list, I can't take it off. It won't let me. So be careful if you ever react to that 23 minute suite. I think it's haunted, lol :-P
@@JustJP WOW! I didn't think you liked Ctte over Awaken and Gates, and then you said Sound Chaser was your favorite on Relayer, so I wondered if Sound Chaser was your current favorite. I knew you loved Ctte. Didn't realize it was your current #1. My list changes too (it changed when I rewrote that article just 2 weeks later), but Ctte seems to be fully cemented in my #1 slot now. I don't see myself ever liking another piece of music more, but there was one time when I put Epitaph #1, so anything is possible : )
Hey Justin, It's evident you have spent some time with this epic and that you really have picked up on how how each part fits into the piece while still being quite separate and unique sounding. One might be tempted to dismiss the 20 minutes as 6 or 7 completely different songs splashed onto the side but I think you really picked up on how each part plays a role in moving the "journey" forward and building expectation to the next musical experience in this beautifully constructed song. It seems this album is going to weedle it's way into your personal music history such that you may likely love to revisit it's many incarnations whether it is the original, or Live or the many covers that are out there to be enjoyed. Thanks again for your efforts on this excellent review!
Willows Farm is my favorite part. Apocalypse in 9/8 is my least favorite part. Favorite performer is Pete as well. My favorite lyric is Dad to Dam to Dom to Mom bit, and They're gonna change you into a human being. Love it. Great job, Justin. As always.
You're right...........................................You said enough on the first listening...:)... Bro, don't overthink it...I think most of us that love the song would be sated with; "YO, THIS SONG IS KILLER, YOU GUYS WERE RIGHT, THANKS FOR THE TURN ON..." ....."Now, I have to take care of that pesky Rob in Philly with his incessant badgering to listen to Mahavishnu Orchestra's; Birds of Fire...Miles Beyond" ... ( a tribute to Miles Davis) ...Or One Word...A killer Billy Cobham jam! But; I'd be just as happy with some Aerosmith Rocks; Nobody's fault...:)...Have a safe and healthy holidays for you and yours! Peace and Much Love!
Not sure if anyone will ever read this comment, but I just had an epiphany about how the couple fits into the story. I think it's possible the narrator has been dead for some time, and returns home upon his partner's death to join her on her journey. Since time is irrelevant to the dead, they soon witness the events preceding the Apocalypse, experience the continuous "repurposing" of matter as their bodies decompose in Willow Farm, and finally are called back home at the Second Coming.
"No wasted space" PERFECT. The music and lyrics are unified and complete. Spiritual, even.
I love the whole song, from the beginning, how each part goes to the next, how it all flows together, climaxes in 9/8 and then brings it all back home in the “Eggs” section at the end. I love how the melodies in the beginning come back at the end to tie it all together, all the melodic passages, the lyrics, the vocals, the musicianship, just everything. It’s a masterpiece.
Peter Gabriel outdid himself on the vocals here in terms of passion and pure energy but there’s so much brilliance in the team effort, it’s magical.
I’m not so much into dissecting the parts into which are my favorite moments because it’s a little too much like ignoring most of a painting because you liked the colors better in one part of the painting than another. What Genesis did so brilliantly was create and release tension both melodically and rhythmically. You have to take the whole journey through all the hills and valleys before you can get to the top of a mountain, and getting there is sometimes more important than being there, if this analogy makes any sense. It’s really how it all fits together and becomes a whole that matters more to me than all the parts, and how it makes you feel. Of course I love “A flower?” too! The point is you are going to feel different things in different parts as it moves from beginning to end. That’s what Genesis intended.
You need to see “Supper’s Ready” performed live to feel the full impact of it. You simply have not really heard it until it’s coursed through your body and enveloped your senses in a live setting. It’s such a euphoric high ... which you must experience for yourself.
The only thing that bothers me is Hackett’s solo at the end is too short on the studio version. I know they had to condense it to fit it on side 2, so I can’t blame the band but because I’ve heard the extended version, I feel cheated! Live, Hackett adds another 4-5 minutes for his solo, and it’s always spectacular! Try to watch his Royal Albert Hall 2013 video. It’s not as good as being there, but it’ll do until you can see him and his band play it live. 💕
You’ve now been “Genesised!” There’s no going back ... but who would want to? 😎
Merry Christmas to all!
I first heard this when it was released in 1972 and I have been regularly listening to it for the subsequent 47 years, I can honestly say that I still get goose pimples (bumps) every single time I hear it. It’s just perfect.
I bet! Its just one of those songs that will always remain timeless and bring shivers to you
"Gonna blow right down inside your soul" that line sends a shiver down my spine every time i hear it.
I really like the honesty of looking up a word to see how to pronounce it properly -- Wish more people were that genuine! ;-]
Ty Rob; I like to learn rather than assume or give up :)
It's a great habit to get into and so easy nowadays (Alexa, what's the definition of "superfluous"). Something I try to get my kids to do though it's an uphill battle.
@@daneng3641, when I was in primary (elementary) school, I asked my teacher what a word meant. She told me to look it up in the dictionary. Then she explained, "if I tell you, you won't remember but if you look it up yourself, you won't forget".
Fun fact: the organ solo in apocalypse is in 4/4 while everything else is in 9/8
Absolutely incredible stuff from the Great Genesis ☝️❤️ thanks for the reaction JP ☝️
Yeah, Supper's Ready is constantly on the move; constantly surprising you. The very first word is "Walking" so it begins with movement. And then, throughout its running time,
it twists and turns and throws you off and about, while constantly building towards the roar of the climax. It's clever, funny, inventive and very powerful music, and I'm glad
that Genesis only made one of these, because it makes it all the more unique and special.
It's a musical adventure for sure. I think the biggest thing I can say about SR is that after so many years of listening to it, it never gets boring and the musical changes and progressions throughout the track still excite me. I love the way it builds the emotion and drama, before what must surely be one of the most euphoric endings ever. The greatest Prog songs are always about journeys and SR is the ultimate roadtrip.
I agree. I often listen to versions of the song these days. :)
SUPPER'S READY is simply PERFECT. Nothing else to say.
Great breakdown of a great song.
I remember when I was 18 or so and I had my first "grown up" job, I would always play this song every morning while having breakfast. It was a great start to the day, and I can remember that various different sections would pop into my head throughout the day and it would get me through the boring moments of a rather monotonous job.
Ty Ari! And the best thing is that as it replays in your mind, a decent amount of time would've passed at work!
Supper's Ready live is a masterpiece with Phil Collins on vocals on their album Seconds Out. And, although you have reacted to this I would love to hear your reaction to the live version and your review of the differing vocal styles between Collins and Gabriel. I think the live version will blow you away. x
Yes, it will.
To get an idea of what Supper's Ready sounds like live, go see Steve Hackett some time next year. He's planning to do Seconds Out in its entirety, including Supper's Ready.
In the US, Steve will be playing Second’s Out in 2021. The SO tour starts in the UK in November 2020. Steve will be in the US in March continuing the Selling England tour. I keep trying to get Justin to say he’ll go but he hasn’t committed yet! Hint, hint .. 😂
It occurred to me this morning that for many people hearing this song for the first time, the opening line might make no sense at all.
"Picking up the remote control, I turn the television off" scans the same way but loses a lot.
I was a Genesis fan starting at around age 13/14...first concert was The Lamb in 1975...Still a Genesis Fan...saw Musical Box....a MUST SEE TRIBUTE BAND, btw.....Love Gabriel and it's a pleasure seeing younger people realize now what I was espousing so many years ago when they were more of an unknown "Bible"? Band LOL!!!!
The sad passage before Willow Farm reminds me of a nightmare I had years ago where I was in a building and found a vast stairwell that poured fearful sadness in the form of music. "A flower?" is like waking from that nightmare, small wonder why it is such a favorite!
For me , this song is the Band producing a complete novel in the form of a piece of music. In terms of structure and narrative power, it's a tremendous piece.
Totally agreed
Flute solo is my favorite part too. The moment that the military style snare drum plays is like the ultimate moment for me. I catch myself "conducting the orchestra" in the car when that comes on all the time.
Its so good!
@@JustJP I just watched Steve Hackett's Genesis Revisited at Hammersmith Odeon again and as always, Supper's Ready gives me chills and brings me near to tears with its beauty. I realized that the Chimes towards the end of "Apocalypse" and the beginning of "Eggs" is my second favorite part. Its the perfect bookend to the the beginning of Apocalypse with that beautiful flute.
Totally agree with your favorite lyrics! Epic and intimate at the same time.
Those lyrics are some of my all time favs. Seem to tear up (every time) with these beautiful words. Awesome final thoughts. Thanx
Thanks for watching GL!
Have a great Christmas.. Another great piece of music.. keep playing these cool memory tunes.
Since you ask so nicely… there's a specific bit I just love, and it's in Willow Farm. I adore the shift into 'feel your body melt' as they kick the tempo up another notch and get even bouncier, and then the bit is the little high pitched bass guitar 'boop!' in the bassline. Dad diddley office, dad diddley office (boop!) you're all full of ball! I don't know why that gets me so hard, but I just love it :)
Yes! Thats a great moment
I have heard this song since it came out. Saw them 7 times. This is the first time I have ever heard anyone talk about it
For me the greatest moment of many great moments is near the end with the chimes "...and it's hello babe...". Give me chills just thinking about it. I do like that you pick the flute section. I heard in an interview with Peter that he wasn't much of a flutist, but added it in whenever he could so he wouldn't be the only one without an instrument onstage. You have to admire that the flute sections were always so very well chosen. He's no Ian Anderson, but give me a well constructed flute interlude over a rocking flute solo.
Ah yes, that last "hello babe" is a perfect breath of relief after the chaos of the previous moments
Some musicians use the term ' padding" when referring to extra , unnecessary filler material, Lol....easier to say. You are bang on, Supper's Ready has no padding.....I think this the greatest epic piece of Rock ever made.
I also was really pulled into the first live release, Genesis Live. This captured the magic vibe of this period of the band. The tracks
Watcher of the Skies
Get em out by Friday
Return of the Giant Hogweed
The Musical Box
The Knife
Perhaps even on your own time, give it a listen. The Musical Box is devastatingly powerful live
Exactly! No wasted space, filler, padding, etc.
Everything is exactly as it needs to be
Merry Christmas JP, Natasha, and community! 🌲
Ty Jay!
I agree with everything you said about this song. It is a perfect song. Apocalypse in 9/8 is my favorite section also. It's so powerful. One of the greatest moments in Genesis. Now to hear your thoughts on Foxtrot!
As a follow up watch the live performance on live video around '72/'73 to eee just how talented these guys are playing this complex piece from start to finish. It's breathtaking particularly for me how Rutherford and Hackett on guitars perform with such detail and skill.
It's the one for Italien TV 1973.
Ty Rob. I watched a few live performances on YT, not sure if it was that one
Never came back to hear this review until now! Completely agree with your assessment of Gabriel's vocal performance on this song. As I have heard this more and more, Peter's singing stands out more and more. The whole concept of putting the Book of Revelation into music (I believe it is Gabriel's idea) is brilliant, using the story to illustrate the battle and victory of Good over Evil. Genesis is musical drama.
Ty R!
Loved your analysis.Been blessed to listen to this for half a century, hope many more get the enjoyment. Steve Hackett still performs this in concert.Highly Recomended.
Thanks Graham!
A fine thing on Christmas morning. Blessings to all, esp to JP and Natasha.
Ty Jim!!
Hi Justin, i read, and saw, in interview, all menbers, considering that song, being the best song they done.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to everyone!
Good morning Justin and a very Merry Christmas to you and yours. First off let me begin by saying how much I appreciate your insightful review of a band and a song I hold very dear. I’m in my mid 60’s and have had the great pleasure of seeing Genesis twice with Gabriel. Your reviews and analysis are important for the future history of music, for mark my words in a hundred years from now this music will be studied in music theory classes as Mozart and Bach are studied today
Ty so much for that brother.
Justin
This song melds a love affair - how it was affected by an ordeal of Biblical proportions and with the battle for good and evil - it is straight out of the book of Revelation.
I also love the second flute interlude of foreboding right before the chaos.
You really nailed this and I am so glad you enjoy SUpper’s Ready.
So many “first reaction” reviews just get a big face reaction and do not have any deeper insights
It’s great to see what you like
Genesis was a group that couldn’t get arrested - proper uptight english lads
But Gabriel always threw in the humorous twist like Willow Farm
Thank you
good day to you jp,the song is higher circle the band is spooky tooth,excellent tune,peace.
Merry Christmas to all and best of the season. Great reaction JP as always, thanks for all you do, much appreciated.
Ty for that Dukea
Merry Christmas JP and all the community.
Ty Rich!
For me, the only version of "Supper's Ready" is the one on the live album "Seconds Out."
Apocalypse is my fav section too. It's very complex musically, and has a lot of different things going on. There are videos of people playing (or trying to) Apocalypse on drums, keyboards, guitar, and also tutorials with the sheet music, so you can follow along. After seeing a few of these, you can probably appreciate much more what a masterpiece it really is. And to think, they were all 21 - 23 years old when they composed it.
Interesting that you choose the flute part as a stand-out moment and comment on its tranquil quality. Yes, it is tranquil, but there is that underlying sense of something darker at work. It's this kind of subtlety that Genesis were able to bring in these sorts of moments which, for me, set them aside from their counterparts.
For me, my 'moment' would have to be the reprise of Lover's Leap which takes us into the glorious final section. It's like we've all come back home when we're listening to it.
To quote your good self, a musical masterpiece!
Wishing you and yours an amazing 2020 and thanks for all the love. Cheers!
Ty Ripples! There were too many good moments in this one, it was very hard to choose
@@JustJP indeed, it just has to be the huge emotional climax of 'and it's hey babe..' for me.. For me, Supper's Ready is almost a calling to mankind.. A quite extraordinary piece of music..
Each of the elements that you noted on the song being climaxes, I approve! This tells me that you are ready to attack the album The Lamb Lies down on Broadway. It will not be a 98.9% delight, but I guarantee you an unbelievable journey on the work of Genesis (Gabriel Period).
My fave performance: Phil on Apocalypse.
Fave lyric: Look, look into my mouth he cries,
And all the children lost down many paths,
I bet my life you'll walk inside,
Hand in hand, gland in gland,
With a spoonful of miracle,
He's the guaranteed eternal sanctuary man.
Fave moment: "A flower?"!!!
Fave section: Apocalypse.
Nice one JP, it's been a treat. From watching you and your mate react to Firth of Fifth, I knew this album, and this song in particular, was for you.
And yeah, it's impossible not to listen to the whole song once you've started. It drags you in instantly.
Merry Christmas everyone!! Stuff your faces and get sloshed!!
Thanks so much Mana! (and for sharing your favorite parts as well)
Love to get your take on The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway, such an awesome album.
I agree with a lot, but I would have put Hackett’s weeping guitar lines in Eggs as a runner up for favourite moment as well. The release and majesty of that section would not work half as well without those lines.
Very true. Man, theres just so many moving parts to the song, but all of them rely upon each other so well.
Happy Holidaze JP for me the star of this song and Genesis is Tony Banks. No one else uses chords the way he does, and unlike Rick Wakeman, Banks knows when to un-cork it and when to keep it in the bottle when it comes to soloing. I do like YES but Banks is who puts Genesis over the top of every other band for me.
Ty Higgins; yes, Banks is a monster on the keys
My only disagreement is during Apocalypse in 9/8. Banks plays his solo in 4, while the music is in 9. I never understood why. Normally I'd say that's because he just can't handle odd times very well, but that doesn't fit with Banks. That makes me think he consciously chose to play this solo in a different time. I just don't understand that choice. He could've been huge with a 9/8 solo.
@@benrichardson7306 That part of the song it about conflict, no better way to illustrate that than have an odd and even time signature battling it out. As a drummer myself i could not imagine a more difficult task than playing a solo like that against such a strong rhythm. So it has to be a deliberate choice. Tony Banks has always done those sorts of things playing fast over a slow bit and vice versa for contrast. They try to create an atmosphere through music my favorite example is the keyboard solo from "Your Own Special Way" I've often heard it described as boring, meandering and not really going anywhere, but if you take the lyrics of the song he is recreating the mood of the lyrics perfectly. I was in the Navy and out to sea away from my wife and kids for extended periods of time while on deployment that song in everyway captures that feeling. That's what they do better than anyone they create atmospheres.
E Higgins Phil Collins literally said Tony Banks was the heart and soul of Genesis. He’s such a great composer with incredible chord and melodic sensibilities.
@@justintime42000 absolutely! Also when Phil was asked about if he was responsible for Genesis doing pop he said "Try making Tony do something he doesn't want to do.".
Yes Peter Gabrial kind of indescribably creative and charismatic
Amazing man! It’s like rediscovering the song again with you. Did you listen to any of the live versions for research?
Thanks Jim! Just a few live performances with PG
My favorite song of all time. So glad you love it too. Great insight and analysis
Thanks for watching Jeremy! Its an easy song to love :)
Also check out the guitar melody at the end of the flute solo. It should sound familiar. :)
Great review of this masterwork of Supper’s Ready! Two quick things, as previously mentioned the version of the song with Phil singing on seconds out is a fantastic version of the song but will always be compared with the original which is the gold standard. Do yourself a favor and follow Steve Hackett who is the only member of the band who does Genesis (the progressive era) music with a phenomenal band, he recently toured Europe and the States playing the entire album Selling England by the Pound and a few other Genesis songs as well as his solo material which is great as well! I’ve seen him on the last three tours and he is fantastic.
I second that.
Yes, Nad Sylvan does an unbelieveable job on the vocals of Suppers Ready.
Ty Ron! I'm considering seeing him
@@JustJP Do yourself a favor and go on Amazon and purchase the live DVD of either Steve Hackett and Genesis Revisited at Royal Albert Hall or Live at Hammersmith Odeon. I watch the Hammersmith DVD about once a month. You'll love the Fifth of Firth too. And Watcher. And Afterglow. And Blood on the Rooftops............
Its’s the way to go, musical pieces like this needs time to digest unless you’re a solid trained musician. For the rest of us, we need time to appreciate it. BTW there is a part that was written as a separate piece, and they decided to include it here. And this digestion process is what I like for most of prog rock pieces
Debo decir que este ha sido un regalo de navidad , coincido en tu análisis de esta obra , la voz de Gabriel es única e irrepetible con la intensidad y emoción de este tema , Tony Banks demuestra que es el alma de Genesis , 9/8 es épico, Y suena maravillosamente ajustado y unido el grupo, Feliz Navidad para tí y la comunidad , Gracias por tu honestidad al resaltar esta obra monumental.
Gracias Hugo! Tienen una intensidad tan inconmensurable en su música, es cautivadora
I like turtles.
Good review! interesting comments! I don't know how many times and how many live versions of this song I listened to and I still love it! Live version from 1973 at the Rainbow (archive 1) is good and it's with PG. I personally prefers PG's versions because he has more personal connection with the lyrics and the melody. Still, Seconds Out version is good too with PC. About the guitar work, the opening section is played by 3 guitars (Steve, Mike and Tony). They did it again with the opening of Cinema Show. Merry Christmas!
Apocalypse is intense. I turn the radio up every time it starts
You have to listen to the live version from 1982 in NY! Best live version
I always felt that this song rivalled Stairway to Heaven as the great epic treasure of the seventies. I find that there is a thematic connection between the two. They both express a spiritual crisis and both have the sense of being drawn toward some final, ineffable
Union... but Supper's Ready speaks to me much more deeply and the resolution of a final, long awaited union, that the whole meaning of this vast tangled drama of
Creation is this single act ; a hand reaching across eternity to grasp the hand of the beloved reaching back...
In addition to the "Seconds Out" live version with Collins singing Genesis also released a live Gabriel version on the "Archive 1967-1975" set. Yes this is on film so you can see them perform it and yeah Gabriel was shaving his head up the middle for some reason.
ua-cam.com/video/vmgQjMGgB9o/v-deo.html
hummm, imho the masterpiece is still to come to your channel... Happy Holidays JP, for you and family...
Haha, ty Rui!
Nice one Justin !! Merry Christmas :)
Ty John!
Merry Christmas JP. You’re correct. It is a perfect song and to be listened in its full. You can maybe see Horizons as the build-up of the song. Wish you now could do a full review in same fashion of Nursery Cryme and then thereafter Selling England by the Pound. No hurry but it would be appreciated by me and many.
Ty Peter, I hear ya
"It's 1:00 and time for lunch.
hum-dee-dum-dee-dum..."
Willow Farm is my favorite part. "A flower?"
🌼
I concur.
Great review, Justin. For me, my PPS would have been 100%. Not a single second that I don't like. If there is an imperfection in this song, it's that it is not long enough....lol
Thank you Yudi! Its pretty much 100% for me too, lol ;)
To finally be free to get back home. Yeah. Been there, she gave me the t-shirt. Thank you, my love (she’ll never read this :)
The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway May be their best album, but “Supper’s Ready” is probably their best song.
Merry Christmas ! To everyone.
Meet you on the Foxtrot final thoughts.
Phenomenal review bro! 👍😎
Your work, for me, has the 99.8 percent of credibility and fiabilidad (I don’t know the word in English, sorry, dude) . The other 0.2 percent is just because. Thank u man, really.
Thank you Manuel!
Always a friend!
Thanks for this JP, great reaction video, great final thoughts video, great and special day for releasing the video of this very special and great song, been listening to Suppers Ready for years I never get bored of it and still hear new parts that surprise me even to this day, still play this song to Gabriel era Genesis virgins who have are open minded enough to appreciate the magnificents of this amazing song and it still drops jaws, I played it to my son when he was 16 and into hip hop it changed his musical direction and it has now become one of his all time favourite songs and at 24 he now plays it to his mates.
Favourite moment : the begining, the end and everything in the middle.
Favourite lyric : the begining, the end and everything in the middle.
Favourite section : the begining, the end and everything in the middle.
Although Foxtrot and Suppers Ready was a hard act to follow they then came up with Selling England and The Lamb which are just amazing, a real golden era for Genesis. Next Genesis album = Selling England or The Lamb please, oh sod it or Nursery Cryme or Trespass.
Anytime my friend, thank you for watching and sharing your favorites! Love it :D
Agree essentially in total. The what you don't like seems trivial and compelled to have a don't like but hey; you're entitled to making this point, right? Good work, I appreciate your analysis here as other videos.
I'm a little late to this video. But man, this journey has been great!
Never late! ty for watchin!
Merry Christmas Justin ❤️
Hoping for a Happy new year of music reviews
(Ps More Radiohead 😂)
Thanks Davide! I hear ya
1. Suppers ready 2. Plague of Lighthouse Keepers 3. K.A. III 4. Gates of Delirium 5. Thick as a brick 1 my top 5 list of 20 min song
Might be interesting to listen to Van Der draaf Generator: "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers". Genesis in the early days were their support-act. They shared a rehearsel room together.. Van Der Graaf is a little darker and more progressive. But Brilliant. Because you liked the 9/8 part; you'd probably appreciate this
Really love your analysis btw. ! Loved the recent one about Hackett.
Thanks! I've actually done all of Pawn Hearts from VdGG :D
@@JustJP Ah, sorry ... haven't found that yet !
I listen way too much music, haha. But I really like the way you do these comment-videos
You mentioned the couple and the colors of the song. Did you watch the illustrated version on UA-cam?
I did :)
true story : Willow Farm - alone! - got me into Genesis and prog. rock in the first place. I owe that section so many hours of pure musical pleasure.
It's so good isnt it?!
... And even though I'm feeling good something tells me I better activate my prayer capsule...
First time I've heard this...
Wow.
I've suggested it before, but if you appreciate Apopcalyptic themed music, I highly, I highly suggest Vangelis' band Aphrodite's Child's masterpiece 666 (The Apocalypse of John, 13/18). It's yet another concept album, so a full listen is in order, but some sections may not be appropriate for the channel, due to language in one song, and the vocals in another. If you can get ahold of the Greek extended vinyl release, even better.
As a practicing Jew, I'm certain many of the themes of this album fly way over my head. Yet, I still enjoy it musically. But, even if you choose not to feature it on the channel, I strongly suggest it for personal listening.
Amazing review of arguably the best song I've ever heard. Ya apocalypse in 9/8 has gotta be the best section. For best performance id give it to either Banks or Gabriel, hard to decide. Best line is probably "666 is no longer alone..." its just so menacing. That flute solo is incredible, i gotta say best moment is probably the last few minutes. Damn that PPS thing is pretty cool. Ive come up with formulas to rate albums, its really nerdy but basically what I do is I give each song a rating out of 5 on 6 categories: Vocals (20%), lyrics, (10%) Instrumentation (30%), Creativity(15%), fit on to album/replayability(10%), and overall score (15%) so i calculate a score for each song then weigh it by song length for example if a song takes up 20% of an albums length its score is multiplied by 0.2. Then I add up all the scores to get the final album score. Lol i realize its pointless, but its really fun to do once in a while
I love it! Every once in a while its fun to put something as subjective as musical taste into an analytical filter. I like your scoring system!
@@JustJP lol exactly! By the way I highly recommend the live version of suppers ready by Steve Hackett and the band todmobile. It has a full orchestra in the background giving it a more epic feel. It's amazing a must watch
Must do The Lamb.... someday
it is still truly one song, in spite of how eclectic it is. Same with Close to the Edge.
Could you take a look at Wishbone Ash - Throw Down The Sword?
Close to the Edge is structured like a symphony. Supper’s Ready is more like a suite of songs.
So true!
The flute is also Peter.
thanks for the analysis, Justin!
about build-up - you can count 'Horisons' as sort of intermezzo before the supper, and also the first part of the song is quite calm, so some additional build-up looks unneccesary to me here
Ty Ovle! Yes, its like dessert for side A, and an appetizer for Suppers Ready
Ty Ovle! Yes, its like dessert for side A, and an appetizer for Suppers Ready
10 year old Camila Pocoví does a great job covering this one.
Please please please listen to Seconds Out! Amazing versions of Genesis songs with Phil and the boys!❤️
Pythagoras with the looking glass reflects the full moon,,
In blood,...he's writing the lyrics
Of a brand new tune......and it's,
Hey babe ,with your guardian eyes
So blue,
Hey babe,? Don't you know our love is true....
Merry Christmas. I left you a link under R.Gray - but it went to spam.
No worries I'll find it!
No superfluicity...No surplusage.
Willow Farm has a kind of Teddy Bear's Picnic feel to it, don't you think? Or it could be just me.
Hmm, I can definitely see it
So is Supper's Ready your favorite Prog piece?
Is it your favorite piece of music in general? Just curious. Close to the Edge is my favorite piece of music.
I'm not sure where I rank this, now that I've listened to it a few times. It definitely makes my top 40 list, but so far I'm still not blown away by it. I still like Firth of Fifth more. I really enjoyed writing that article, ranking my top 40 favorite pieces of Prog that's at least 8 minutes in length. Without that 8 minute qualifier, I don't think I could've done it. Just way too many shorter pieces. Would've needed to do a top 100 and that would've taken forever, lol.
Something you might find interesting, #40 on my list is 'The Lizard Suite' by King Crimson. That piece has let me know that it's staying at #40, no matter what, so if I ever update my list, I can't take it off. It won't let me. So be careful if you ever react to that 23 minute suite. I think it's haunted, lol :-P
Honestly, it changes all the time lol. Atm, my favorite prog epic is CttE. I don't think I could ever have a singular favorite piece of music though😆
@@JustJP WOW! I didn't think you liked Ctte over Awaken and Gates, and then you said Sound Chaser was your favorite on Relayer, so I wondered if Sound Chaser was your current favorite. I knew you loved Ctte. Didn't realize it was your current #1.
My list changes too (it changed when I rewrote that article just 2 weeks later), but Ctte seems to be fully cemented in my #1 slot now. I don't see myself ever liking another piece of music more, but there was one time when I put Epitaph #1, so anything is possible : )
Hey Justin, It's evident you have spent some time with this epic and that you really have picked up on how how each part fits into the piece while still being quite separate and unique sounding. One might be tempted to dismiss the 20 minutes as 6 or 7 completely different songs splashed onto the side but I think you really picked up on how each part plays a role in moving the "journey" forward and building expectation to the next musical experience in this beautifully constructed song. It seems this album is going to weedle it's way into your personal music history such that you may likely love to revisit it's many incarnations whether it is the original, or Live or the many covers that are out there to be enjoyed. Thanks again for your efforts on this excellent review!
Oh yeah, It'll definitely be on constant rotation for me. Thank you SV
I’d be curious to hear who you think sings this song better, Phil or Peter!
A flower?
🌼
Willows Farm is my favorite part. Apocalypse in 9/8 is my least favorite part. Favorite performer is Pete as well. My favorite lyric is Dad to Dam to Dom to Mom bit, and They're gonna change you into a human being. Love it. Great job, Justin. As always.
Ty Rosen! Willows Farms is SO fun
You're right...........................................You said enough on the first listening...:)... Bro, don't overthink it...I think most of us that love the song would be sated with; "YO, THIS SONG IS KILLER, YOU GUYS WERE RIGHT, THANKS FOR THE TURN ON..." ....."Now, I have to take care of that pesky Rob in Philly with his incessant badgering to listen to Mahavishnu Orchestra's; Birds of Fire...Miles Beyond" ... ( a tribute to Miles Davis) ...Or One Word...A killer Billy Cobham jam! But; I'd be just as happy with some Aerosmith Rocks; Nobody's fault...:)...Have a safe and healthy holidays for you and yours! Peace and Much Love!
Haha, thank you so much Rob!
It's a shame that Peter didn't play flute more often.
98.9% PPS! Ya Beautie!
😁
Not sure if anyone will ever read this comment, but I just had an epiphany about how the couple fits into the story. I think it's possible the narrator has been dead for some time, and returns home upon his partner's death to join her on her journey. Since time is irrelevant to the dead, they soon witness the events preceding the Apocalypse, experience the continuous "repurposing" of matter as their bodies decompose in Willow Farm, and finally are called back home at the Second Coming.
Never thought of it like that, I like the interpretation!