Genesis - Nursery Cryme

Hi Fi News Album Choice for September 2026!

Analogue Productions (Atlantic 75 Series)

Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of Atlantic Records!

First Genesis album to feature drummer/vocalist Phil Collins!

Hybrid Stereo SACD

Mastered directly to DSD from the original master tape by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering

"Released in late 1971, Genesis' third album must be regarded as a watershed moment in the prog-rock giants' history, as it was the first with Phil Collins on drums and Steve Hackett on guitar. I'll leave it up to the hardcore contingent to decide which lineup was the best/most definitive, but with Banks, Rutherford and Gabriel present here, this surely rates as 'classic.' It certainly showed a change in intent, not least thanks to Collins' exquisite percussion, as it was more accessible and commercial than the two earlier albums. Although the lengthy opener, 'The Musical Box,' is arguably the album's best-known cut, it was the shortest track, 'For Absent Friends' with Collins' vocals, which led the way." —  Sound Quality: 90% — Ken Kessler, Hi Fi News Album Choice, September 2026

Genesis' album Nursery Cryme, released in November 1971, marked a significant moment in the band's evolution and showcased the burgeoning talents of their new drummer and vocalist, Phil Collins, plus guitarist Steve Hackett.

Nursery Cryme saw the band take a more aggressive direction of some songs, with substantially improved drumming. The opening piece, "The Musical Box" combined the band's trademark mix of twelve-string guitars with harsh electric guitars and keyboards. The song, a macabre fairy story set in Victorian Britain, became the inspiration for the album cover, and went on to be a live favorite.

This album played a pivotal role in establishing the band's progressive rock sound and laid the foundation for their future success.

Although Peter Gabriel remained the band's primary vocalist, Collins' distinctive voice began to shine through on tracks like "For Absent Friends" and "Harlequin." Collins' vocals added a new dimension to the band's sound, blending seamlessly with Gabriel's, and hinting at the vocal prowess that would later define his solo career. His emotive and versatile singing style contributed to the album's overall charm.

Nursery Cryme is regarded as a crucial stepping stone in Genesis' discography, and with time, became recognized as a progressive rock classic. The album received acclaim for its adventurous and intricate compositions, combining elements of folk, rock, and classical music. Genesis' signature storytelling lyrics, often filled with surreal and whimsical imagery, captivated listeners and added depth to the music.

Critics praised the band's musicianship, with particular attention to the intricate guitar work of Steve Hackett and the melodic basslines of Mike Rutherford.

 

 

1. The Musical Box

2. For Absent Friends

3. The Return Of The Giant Hogweed

4. Seven Stones

5. Harold The Barrel

6. Harlequin

7. The Fountain Of Salmacis

Customer Reviews (4.75 Stars) 4 person(s) rated this product.

Pretty dang good posted on 03/04/2026 5 Stars Reviewer: joey1127 Very pleased with this AP SACD of NC. Very clean and clear sound which on some of my other releases can be a little muddy or congested at times. This AP release seems to be the best one yet of NC. Nice Job!

Better, but not great posted on 01/30/2026 4 Stars Reviewer: Marc Siegel I have the sacd on Charisma, which never sounded good, so I was looking forward to this release. Does this sound better? Yes, but not by much. My belief is that the master tape itself is the culprit and not Chris Bellman. Whatever source used, I am sure Chris did the best he could with what he was given.

The AP Genesis releases are a gift from heaven posted on 01/23/2026 5 Stars Reviewer: Timothy Patrick Harold The sound of this SACD release of Nursery Cryme is absolutely amazing. The instruments sound natural. There is plenty of air and space in the soundstage. The cymbals sound so natural. If you are a disappointed owner of the 2008 remix/masters then do yourself a huge favor and upgrade to the AP remasters of the Genesis titles now. I own them all. They are ALL amazing. I cannot wait for the releases of "Wind and Wuthering" and "Duke". Please consider releasing "And Then There Were Three" too, please!

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