On a brisk Friday evening, November 17th, 2023, the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, California, was enlivened with the spirit of progressive rock. Steve Hackett, the iconic former lead guitarist of Genesis (1971-1977), graced the stage, culminating his six-week U.S. tour with a performance that underscored his timeless musical genius and the lasting impact of his rich, complex compositions.
Since 2017, Hackett's current touring ensemble has fine-tuned their musical rapport to an exceptional level of precision. Drummer Craig Blundell, a recent addition, infused the performance with dynamic, propulsive rhythms, while bassist Jonas Reingold's expert playing provided a robust foundation for the group's sonic journey.
Roger King, a long-time collaborator and keyboard maestro, expertly maneuvered through a diverse range of sounds, from the nostalgic warmth of vintage analogs to grandiose symphonic expanses. His flawless integration, especially in complex segments, showcased his profound grasp of Hackett's musical vision.
Rob Townsend, a virtuoso on woodwinds, fluidly switched among instruments like the flute, soprano and tenor saxophones, and penny whistle. His performances, ranging from subtle to explosive, added rich textures and emotional depth to the ensemble's sound.
Nad Sylvan, the band's vocalist, commanded the stage with his magnetic presence and robust voice, evoking the spirits of Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins. His versatile and vibrant renditions brought depth and resonance to the lyrics, energizing the classics with new life.
The concert unfolded in two sets: the first spotlighting Hackett's solo work and the second celebrating his time with Genesis. Opening with "Ace of Wands" from his 1975 debut, "Voyage of the Acolyte," the show kicked off with a display of intricate guitar skills and an infectious melody. The first set resonated with a jazz-rock vibe, reminiscent of Weather Report's experimental brilliance.
Standouts included "The Steppes," a soaring instrumental, and "Every Day," an anthemic number that deeply connected with the audience. The set concluded with "Shadow of the Hierophant," a dark, tension-filled piece highlighting the band's mastery of mood and crescendo.
Post-intermission, the band returned with Genesis's "Watcher of the Skies," leading into a second set that revived treasured memories for many in the audience. This portion featured an exquisite rendition of "Foxtrot," with memorable moments like the playful "Get 'Em Out by Friday," the haunting "Can-Utility and the Coastliners," and the stunning solo in "Horizons."
The climax was "Supper's Ready," a 20-minute saga that showcased Hackett's soaring guitar, Sylvan's emotive vocals, and the band's cohesive dynamism, creating an immersive musical journey.
The encore brought the crowd to its feet with "Firth of Fifth" and a powerful drum solo leading into "Los Endos." As the final notes resonated, the audience's thunderous applause reflected the unforgettable impact of the night. Steve Hackett and his extraordinary band not only revisited a golden era of music but also left a lasting impression on the Santa Barbara crowd.
