Firth Of Fifth (Steve Hackett)

 

 

When Steve Hackett reinterpreted “Firth of Fifth” on his 1996 album Genesis Revisited, he wasn’t just revisiting a classic - he was reclaiming it. Though originally released by Genesis on Selling England by the Pound (1973), where Hackett’s soaring guitar solo became one of progressive rock’s most cherished moments, this version brings the piece fully under his stewardship, allowing him to both honor and subtly reimagine the song from a more mature, personal perspective.

The Genesis Revisited project aimed to reinterpret and re-record classic Genesis material with modern production and a stellar lineup of guest musicians. In the case of “Firth of Fifth”, Hackett wisely leaves the core structure and spirit of the song intact. Rather than overhaul or overly modernize it, he polishes its strengths - clarifying textures, expanding the dynamic range, and placing the instrumental work (particularly his guitar) in sharper focus.

Vocals on this version are handled by John Wetton (of King Crimson, Asia, and UK fame), whose warm, authoritative voice brings a different emotional tone than Peter Gabriel’s original delivery. Wetton’s performance is more direct and grounded, lending the lyrics a gravitas that contrasts with Gabriel’s ethereal mysticism. While some purists may miss Gabriel’s distinctive phrasing, Wetton brings a noble, resonant quality that suits the song’s epic tone.

The famous piano introduction, performed here with pristine clarity, still evokes the grandeur of classical music, and the transition into the main sections remains fluid and powerful. But the highlight, as ever, is Hackett’s guitar solo - rendered here with greater sonic depth and expressive freedom. With decades of refinement behind him, Hackett doesn’t just recreate the solo - he reinhabits it. The tone is richer, the sustain more carefully shaped, and every note seems to breathe. It’s a master craftsman revisiting his most iconic sculpture with the added wisdom of time.

There’s also a subtle emotional undercurrent to this version: a sense of reflection, of looking back not just musically but personally. This is Hackett revisiting a formative part of his artistic identity, perhaps even staking a claim on a legacy that had long been shared with others. The production is lush but respectful, allowing the piece to sound grand without becoming bombastic.

Steve Hackett’s version of “Firth of Fifth” on Genesis Revisited is more than a cover - it’s a reverent, revitalized reimagining by the very guitarist who defined the song’s most iconic moment. With a polished production, sensitive reinterpretation, and a guitar solo that glows with mature intensity, this rendition offers both a tribute to Genesis’s progressive zenith and a powerful artistic statement from Hackett himself. It does not and can not replace the original, but it deserves the same respect. For longtime fans and new listeners alike, it’s a deeply satisfying return to one of prog rock’s most enduring anthems. 

Supper's Ready (Steve Hackett)

 

 

Steve Hackett’s reinterpretation of “Supper’s Ready” on the 2012 album Genesis Revisited II is not merely a tribute - it’s a reverent resurrection of one of progressive rock’s most iconic epics, brought back to life with both fidelity and fresh energy. Originally performed by Genesis in 1972 on the album Foxtrot, this 23-minute suite is perhaps their most ambitious composition, and Hackett - who played guitar on the original - returns to it decades later with a deep sense of ownership and creative responsibility.

This version features an ensemble of talented guest musicians. Since there was no vocalist with the versatility of Peter Gabriel capable of creating dialogues with himself sounding as several different persons, Steve came up with the brilliant idea to opt for five singers with different characteristics for the seven parts: Mikael Akerfeldt, Simon Collins, Conrad Keely, Francis Dunnery and Steve Hackett himself.

 
What makes this version stand out is the clarity and depth of modern production. The mix is lush and powerful, allowing each instrument to breathe while staying true to the dense, symphonic sound of the original. Hackett’s guitar work is, unsurprisingly, sublime - more pronounced and expressive than in the original recording, with added nuance and solos that feel like a seasoned artist revisiting and embellishing his past with both wisdom and affection.

The keyboard work, handled by Roger King, is faithful to Tony Banks’s iconic textures while adding subtle enhancements that underscore the grandeur of the composition. The rhythm section is tight and dynamic, capturing the fluid time changes and dramatic builds with precision.

Crucially, Hackett avoids the trap of over-modernizing. This is not a remix, nor is it a departure - it’s a restoration. The arrangement honors the spirit of 1972 while benefiting from contemporary sonic richness and performance maturity.

Steve Hackett’s version of “Supper’s Ready” on Genesis Revisited II is a triumphant reimagining of a progressive rock cornerstone. While nothing can replace the magic of the original Genesis performance, this interpretation offers a powerful, emotionally resonant experience - especially for those who cherish the Gabriel-era Genesis catalog. For long-time fans, it’s a moving homage; for newcomers, it’s a beautifully produced gateway into one of the genre’s most compelling musical narratives.