Miguel Kertsman discusses his love for Genesis

e sounds, for example the spectacular sound design on Lamb Lies Down On Broadway. Genesis had a lot of supporting and leading keyboard work in their music, and that of course was a huge point of attraction for me, as I already loved keyboard instruments as a child.

At eight, nine, or ten, I of course didn’t really quite understand everything that was going on with the music, which later I could more objectively appreciate: For example, the long-form of many of songs, complex rhythms, deceptive harmonic cadences, great counterpoint between the musicians, and such an amazing sense of ensemble. Everyone had a chance to shine as Peter Gabriel’s or Phil Collins’ awesome vocals helped tell the stories: When say, Tony Banks had the lead on a synth, and Phil Collins would be tastefully answering lines on the drums, Steve Hacket would add tasteful guitar lines, and Mike Rutherford would provide a solid support, sometimes with both accompanying guitar and pedal-played synth bass drones.

The music never got chaotic, nor did it ever sound like any band member had an ego problem. If they did, it didn’t sound in the music, at least not to me. Genesis sounded incredibly complex at times, but always together, and harmonious.

The production aesthetics were fantastic, which further contributed to make the music breathe and shine. I discovered albums such as The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway, Selling England By The Pound, and a little later, Wind & Wuthering as a child, and those records would go on travelling with me along the way into adulthood. Perhaps because the music always takes me back to beautiful memories, to a space of my own.

That’s what music does. It can take you places inwards and outwards. Music can speak with you that intensely, and the music of Genesis from that period certainly did. I enjoy it to this day, and am grateful to Peter, Phil, Tony, Mike, and Steve for the amazingly captivating music they created. And also, thanks to a music industry then, more open to groundbreaking originality, embracing experimentation, and taking commercial risks, which allowed for new ideas to flourish.

I take this opportunity to share two songs from my new album Paradoxes – Red Blue Sky and Jubilant Anxiety.

From Symphonic and Chamber works for the Classical Concert Stage, to Children’s Theater, Film and Game scoring, Progressive Rock, Jazz, or World projects, Brazilian-American progressive rock multi-instrumentalist Miguel Kertsman explores various genres of music. His latest album, Paradoxes, is a progressive art rock album recorded live-in-the-space using vintage analog gear. The album’s songs, expansive instrumentals, and interludes take the listener on an emotionally charged journey exploring human experiences.

Choosing a favorite artist or band to write about can be challenging due to the plethora of options. Music has the power to evoke specific memories and emotions while inspiring us in various ways. For Miguel Kertsman, Genesis holds a special place in his heart as a band he discovered at a young age. As a child immersed in Classical Music and learning to play keyboard instruments, Genesis’s music, with its classical undertones, captivated him.

Although he may not have fully comprehended the complexities of Genesis’s music as a child, Miguel later came to appreciate the intricate compositions, complex rhythms, and harmonious ensemble dynamics. The band’s ability to showcase each member’s talent without overshadowing others created a seamless and cohesive sound that resonated with Miguel. The impeccable production quality of albums like The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway and Selling England By The Pound further solidified Genesis’s place in Miguel’s musical journey, transporting him back to cherished memories.

The timeless nature of music allows it to transcend time and space, connecting individuals with their past and present experiences. The music of Genesis, with its captivating vocal performances, intricate instrumentals, and innovative approach, continues to inspire Miguel to this day. Grateful for the band’s creative genius and the music industry’s openness to experimentation during that era, Miguel remains a dedicated fan of Genesis and their groundbreaking contributions to the music world.

As Miguel continues to share his passion for music through his new album Paradoxes, featuring tracks like Red Blue Sky and Jubilant Anxiety, he invites listeners to embark on an emotional journey through his progressive art rock compositions. Just as Genesis’s music left an indelible mark on his musical upbringing, Miguel’s work aims to evoke powerful emotions and transport listeners to introspective and inspiring spaces.