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Genesis: NEC, Birmingham

Max Bell, The Times, 28 February 1984

WHEN GENESIS first came to prominence, some 12 years ago, they were regarded as leaders in the rock-as-theatre movement. The combination of their former vocalist Peter Gabriel's fantastic costumery and the band's lengthy musical allegories gave them an edge that enabled them to overcome the pejorative implications of progressive heavy metal. Now, Genesis are a supergroup capable of packing out stadia the world over. The first night of their stint at the vast National Exhibition Centre complex, which culminates in a charity performance for the Prince of Wales Trust, was ample proof that, despite punk and Culture Club, there is still a demand for this rather reactionary style of music.

Total word count of piece: 278

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