Tony Banks’ 18 Pieces for Orchestra: A Symphonic Journey Through a Genesis Legend’s Classical Vision
As a lifelong Genesis fan, it’s fascinating to delve into Tony Banks’ orchestral work through his new box set, 18 Pieces for Orchestra. Known best as the keyboard genius behind Genesis, Tony Banks brings a unique blend of classical inspiration and symphonic depth to his solo orchestral pieces, compiled here in a comprehensive 3-CD set. This box set, released through Naxos, showcases Banks’ orchestral trilogy: Seven, Six, and Five, originally recorded between 2002 and 2018. Each album is performed by a different prestigious orchestra, from the London Philharmonic to the Czech Symphony Orchestra, with rich arrangements that bring his classical aspirations to life.
The 18 Pieces for Orchestra box set includes three beautifully packaged CDs and an in-depth booklet detailing the background of each piece, the orchestras, and the creative process behind the music. This booklet, filled with insights directly from Banks, explains the obstacles and triumphs he experienced while working with orchestras. From the initial skepticism of classical musicians to the meticulous process of orchestrating each piece, Banks’ journey into classical music is as fascinating as the music itself.
Banks’ first orchestral album, Seven, was recorded with the London Philharmonic Orchestra in 2002. While Banks himself mentioned in our podcast that it didn’t fully align with his vision due to initial challenges, I find this album captivating, especially with tracks like “Black Down,” an evocative piece born out of improvisations. Inspired by composers like Vaughan Williams, the music on Seven explores lush and expansive soundscapes with a romantic edge.
Six, recorded in 2011 with the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, marks a shift towards more dynamic and cinematic music. With pieces like “Blade,” featuring a stunning violin performance by Charlie Siem, the album gained popularity on Classic FM, introducing a wider audience to Banks’ classical work. The Prague musicians, being Genesis fans themselves, brought a new level of enthusiasm to the recording, making Six a standout.
The third album, Five, recorded with the Czech Symphony Orchestra and arranged by Nick Ingman, is perhaps the highlight of the set. Banks took a different approach by creating detailed demos for each part, resulting in compositions that capture his vision with remarkable precision. Tracks like “Ebb and Flow” evoke a film score-like quality, while “Renaissance,” with its choral arrangement and cinematic atmosphere, feels both timeless and grand. This album captures Banks’ orchestral aspirations at their peak, and it’s clear he’s poured his heart into every note.
For fans of Genesis, this collection offers a fresh perspective on Banks’ talent, demonstrating his ability to craft sophisticated orchestral compositions beyond rock music. Genesis has long been recognized as one of the foundational bands in progressive rock, with compositions often inspired by classical structures and motifs. With 18 Pieces for Orchestra, Banks brings his classical influences to the forefront, creating symphonic pieces that hold their own alongside the works of rock legends like Rick Wakeman, Keith Emerson, and Jon Lord.
As I listened, I couldn’t help but think of how music from bands like Genesis has become the “new classical” for generations of rock fans. This box set invites listeners to appreciate Banks’ artistic evolution, as well as his skill in creating immersive, emotive music that resonates deeply.
If you’re a fan of Genesis or progressive rock with a classical edge, Tony Banks’ 18 Pieces for Orchestra is an essential addition to your collection. This is a set that rewards careful listening, offering a symphonic journey that’s both nostalgic and fresh. I’m hoping we’ll see a fourth installment, as Tony Banks clearly has more to share in this genre. The box set is available now from Naxos, and it’s one I highly recommend.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
