In the summer of 1986, Genesis unveiled Invisible Touch, an album that would not only define the band’s sound for the remainder of the decade but also carve a permanent niche in pop-rock history. Gone were the lengthy prog epics of the ’70s – this was sleek, modern, and unabashedly radio-friendly. But don’t be fooled: beneath its shimmering production, Invisible Touch carries the unmistakable DNA of three musicians – Phil Collins, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford – still pushing boundaries in their own way.
A New Era for Genesis
By the time Invisible Touch was recorded, Genesis had firmly transitioned from their early progressive rock roots into a more streamlined, chart-ready sound. Phil Collins’ solo success in the early ’80s had certainly shaped this new direction. The band, however, operated as a fully collaborative unit during the album’s writing sessions at The Farm, their private studio in Surrey, UK.
Jamming was the name of the game – every track on the album was born from improvisation, rather than pre-written material. This spontaneous approach gave the record an organic energy, even amidst the glossy synths and programmed drums.
Hit After Hit
At its heart, Invisible Touch is an album stacked with hits. The title track became Genesis’ first (and only) U.S. number one single, an infectious slice of synth-pop with a knowing wink. Tonight, Tonight, Tonight simmered with atmosphere and tension, while Land of Confusion paired driving guitars with one of the most iconic music videos of the MTV era – those surreal, satirical puppets are seared into the collective memory of ’80s music fans.
Meanwhile, In Too Deep showcased Collins’ emotive vocals in a soulful ballad, and Throwing It All Away delivered a perfect blend of pop sensibility and genuine warmth.
Track-by-Track Breakdown of Invisible Touch
Invisible Touch
The album bursts to life with this effervescent title track. Written almost by accident during a jam session, Invisible Touch became a worldwide hit. It’s pure ‘80s pop: bright synths, snappy drums, and Phil Collins delivering a vocal hook that refuses to leave your head. It’s cheeky, it’s fun, and it set the tone for Genesis’ radio-friendly phase.
Tonight, Tonight, Tonight
Dark, brooding, and atmospheric—this is Genesis flexing their ability to create tension. Built around a hypnotic drum pattern and moody keyboard textures, Tonight, Tonight, Tonight deals with themes of addiction and desperation. The extended album version runs for over eight minutes, allowing the song to breathe and simmer.
Land of Confusion
Arguably one of the standout moments on the album, Land of Confusion is driven by Mike Rutherford’s punchy guitar riff and a thumping beat. The socially conscious lyrics reflect Cold War-era anxieties. And let’s be honest—many fans first remember it for that unforgettable puppet-filled music video!
In Too Deep
A gentle, heartfelt ballad showcasing Phil Collins’ emotive vocal style. Written for the soundtrack of the film Mona Lisa, In Too Deep became a hit in its own right. The lush production and sweeping melody make it one of the album’s most tender moments.
Anything She Does
A playful, fast-paced track about obsession and the illusions of glamour (think posters of pin-up models in teenage bedrooms). Tony Banks’ synth work is front and center here, with an infectious bounce that makes it a hidden gem on the album.
Domino (Part One: In the Glow of the Night / Part Two: The Last Domino)
Here’s where Genesis tips their hat to their progressive roots. Domino is a sprawling, two-part epic filled with shifting moods, time signatures, and atmospheric storytelling. It’s one of the more complex tracks on the album—an album otherwise known for its radio hits.
Throwing It All Away
A breezy, acoustic-tinged number with a wistful, reflective mood. It’s one of Genesis’ most emotionally resonant pop songs, touching on themes of lost love and fading connections. Perfect for those sunset drives.
The Brazilian
The album closes with The Brazilian, an instrumental track that highlights the band’s experimental side. Driven by Tony Banks’ layered synths and electronic percussion, it’s a cinematic finale that leaves a slightly surreal aftertaste.
Legacy
Invisible Touch became Genesis’ best-selling album, earning multi-platinum status across the globe. It marked the peak of their commercial success and demonstrated that they could thrive in the evolving musical landscape of the mid-’80s. More than that, it helped redefine what a “rock band” could sound like in an era increasingly dominated by synths and studio wizardry.
For some longtime fans, this was a far cry from the days of Foxtrot or The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway – but for millions of new listeners, Invisible Touch was the gateway to the band’s vast and varied catalog.
Final Thoughts
Nearly four decades on, Invisible Touch still sparkles with pop craftsmanship and the effortless chemistry of three musicians at the top of their game. Whether you approach it as an ’80s pop milestone or the evolution of a legendary prog outfit, the album remains essential listening. Go on – give it another spin. You might just find yourself humming along.
Fun Facts About Invisible Touch
- First U.S. Number One: The title track, Invisible Touch, was Genesis’ first – and only – song to hit number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. Even Phil Collins cheekily admitted they never expected it to take off quite like that.
- Born from Jams: Every song on the album was created through jamming sessions at The Farm studio. No one showed up with pre-written songs – it was all about in-the-moment creativity.
- Music Video Magic: Land of Confusion’s unforgettable video, featuring puppets of world leaders and celebrities, was produced by the creators of the British satirical show Spitting Image. It won a Grammy for Best Concept Music Video.
- Competing with Himself: In 1986, Phil Collins had solo hits Sussudio and Take Me Home on the charts while Genesis was climbing with Invisible Touch. At one point, he was competing with himself for chart positions!
- Pop with Prog Roots: Despite the album’s pop sound, several tracks – like Domino – still feature progressive elements with complex structures and time changes. It’s a subtle nod to Genesis’ prog-rock origins.
- A Massive Tour: The Invisible Touch tour (1986–1987) saw Genesis performing in massive arenas worldwide. They became one of the first bands to sell out multiple nights at London’s Wembley Stadium, playing to over 300,000 fans across four shows.
