So many songs are great on And Then There Were Three. In this author's humble opinion, Undertow captures the changes that led to the last great era of Genesis. For it is on this album, Mike now has to take over bass and guitar duties as Steve has left the band. He would rely on the MOOG Taurus Bass Pedal and just how instrumental it was in adding that Earth-shaking low end on this and many songs from this era. Phil is at his creative best with his drumming. His vocals have graduated to richer tones and notes. And Tony begins to orchestrate a sound that reflects a new trend with greater emphasis on the chorus. At times, the chorus is overpowering the listener with greater emphasis than in past Genesis songs. (You can see this trend continue throughout their tenure as a threesome)
Changes are happening, however this is Genesis. The lyrics stand the tests of time.
Stand up to the blow that fate has struck upon you,
Make the most of all you still have coming to you,
Lay down on the ground and let the tears run from you,
Crying to the grass and trees and heaven finally on your knees
Let me live again, let life come find me wanting.
Spring must strike again against the shield of winter.
Let me feel once more the arms of love surround me,
Telling me the danger's past, I need not fear the icy blast again.
And then there were three would accelerate the prog debates. Unfortunately for some, they discounted so many great songs like Undertow. This is Genesis without a doubt. For those who love all eras, Undertow brings a tear, an emotion, and memories of our past. Such a great song.
