Anthony Philips was strong lyricist and composer in his own rights. He influenced the early days of Genesis as credited by Mike Rutherford in his book. After all, the Musical Box intro was a creation of Phillips. He was an extremely talented guitarist. His work is evident in Trespass. Trespass, provides the transition from their first album to longer songs and deeper tracks of music. We know he brought a creative edge to the music
One question is how strong would have the future albums have been up until Gabriel's departure been if Philips stayed with the band? Another question, would Phillips have left around the same time of Hackett, or would the timeline have been altered. After all, Phillips was a charter member. Could Phillips have altered the Collins era of Genesis? Steve's estrangement is well documented and he never felt like he truly fit in at times. Maybe Phillips would have been willing to compromise a bit on the creativity front.
Suggesting "No Hackett Required" would be most difficult to imagine. Hackett provided unique signature moments during the Gabriel era. Some would argue this might have changed the success of later albums after Trespass. After all, he has many iconic moments on future albums and live in concert. Hackett along side Banks knew how to navigate the time signatures in live productions to allow for costume changes and Gabriel's transitions during theatrical moments. We never will know how Phillips would have been during this critical time of Genesis.
For Genesis fans, we can only wonder. There were collaborations with former band members that give us a hint of what future albums may have looked like. For example, The Silver Song gives us a hint of what post Gabriel might look like. A great collaboration with Rutherford and Collins. There was a prog-folk like feel that Phillip brought to early Genesis songs, and it is evident in this song.
Would Genesis have gone a different path with Phillips staying with the band? It leads to so many additional questions. What about the Lamb? Would the band have made it to the Collins era with the success they achieved. What would have happened to Steve? So many questions can be added to this discussion. What are your thoughts?
