Wise After the Event

Wise After the Event is the second studio album by English musician Anthony Phillips, released in 1978. Following the success of his debut album The Geese & The Ghost, Phillips continued to explore his unique blend of progressive rock and folk influences in this release.

Background

After leaving the band Genesis in 1970, Anthony Phillips embarked on a solo career, releasing a series of albums that showcased his skills as a multi-instrumentalist and composer. Wise After the Event was recorded between 1977 and 1978, and marked a departure from the more acoustic sound of his previous album. Phillips incorporated more synthesizers and electric guitars, resulting in a more progressive rock-oriented sound.

Musical Style

Wise After the Event features a diverse range of musical styles, showcasing Phillips' versatility as a musician. The album combines elements of progressive rock, folk, and classical music, creating a unique and atmospheric sound. Phillips' intricate guitar work and melodic keyboard arrangements are prominent throughout the album, accompanied by lush orchestration and layered vocal harmonies.

Track Listing

1. "We're All as We Lie" – 4:47
2. "Birdsong and Reprise" – 4:38
3. "Moonshooter" – 5:50
4. "Wise After the Event" – 10:29
5. "Pulling Faces" – 4:37
6. "Regrets" – 6:01
7. "Greenhouse" – 3:40
8. "Paperchase" – 5:34
9. "Now What (Are They Doing to My Little Friends)?" – 2:11

Reception

Wise After the Event received positive reviews from music critics upon its release. The album was praised for its intricate compositions, atmospheric soundscapes, and Phillips' impressive musicianship. However, it did not achieve significant commercial success, reaching only number 159 on the UK Albums Chart.

Legacy

Despite its initial commercial performance, Wise After the Event has gained a cult following over the years. It is often regarded as one of Anthony Phillips' finest solo works and a testament to his musical talent. The album's unique blend of progressive rock and folk influences continues to inspire and influence musicians in the genre.

External links

• Official website
• Wise After the Event at AllMusic