It’s one thing to love a song, but it’s another to live it. For Genesis Visible Touch, a Genesis cover band, performing classic hits isn’t just a gig—it’s about evolving alongside the music they love. Not just recreating.
This is according to the band’s drummer and lead singer, Gary O’Toole. Who I spoke with about his and the bands experiences.
A Source of Inspiration
In his words, “We’re not trying to be them; we’re trying to give the songs our own energy.”
This isn’t just a cover band but an experience that honours and reshapes the spirit of Genesis for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
Gary, who has an extensive musical background, including years spent performing with Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett—shared how his deep connection to Genesis evolved. Having been raised in a musical family, he was exposed to various genres, from jazz to rock, and Genesis struck a chord early on with its complex musicality and innovation.
However, it was Phil Collins’ drumming and singing that captivated him, particularly on albums like Trick of the Tail, which helped shape his admiration for the band.
“Phil was amazing,” he shared. “Phil Collins playing drums was just amazing to me. I loved it. There was something inside me that was going ‘I can do that.’”
His progression from playing working men’s clubs in London with his parents to joining Hackett’s touring band speaks to a lifelong passion for musical evolution and versatility.
Finding Balance Between Precision and Personality
This admiration for Genesis, though, does not limit them to strict imitation. Instead, the band takes a more organic, flexible approach. When asked if the goal was to meticulously recreate the Genesis experience, Gary emphasised the importance of originality, a lesson he learned from Hackett.
During their years together, Hackett encouraged him to bring his style to the music rather than simply replicating Collins’ performances.
“When I played with Steve, he always encouraged me to make it my own,” he explained. “It’s about respecting the music, but not losing our personalities in it.”
For GVT, maintaining this balance is key. They aim to be “close but not perfect,” understanding that part of what makes live music special is its ability to breathe and evolve in real time.
Capturing the Spirit of Genesis
While some tribute bands work to painstakingly recreate every detail of the original Genesis concerts—from costumes to stage banter—the members of GVT focus on creating an emotional connection through music.
For them, the value lies in celebrating the music’s essence rather than in perfect replication. When the band performs, they want the audience to feel the music as something alive.
something that still has the power to move listeners, whether they’re Genesis veterans or new to the band.
Gary shared a story about how they once toyed with the idea of dressing to match the original band’s style.
“Maybe one night we’ll all be in black, another night all in white,” he laughed, “but it’s not about replicating outfits; it’s about the music first and foremost.”
The band’s organic take on Genesis songs also makes room for impromptu moments and creative adjustments.
These creative liberties keep the performances fresh and engaging for the musicians as well, helping to prevent the performances from becoming rote or mechanical.
“The music needs space to breathe,” he said, adding that, in the end, Genesis’ music was always progressive and open to interpretation. “Music should be malleable,” he emphasised.
Bridging Generations of Fans
For the members of GVT, there’s also a sense of joy in connecting with the audience.
Some fans come to the shows hoping to relive Genesis concerts from years past, while others are encountering the music for the first time.
One of Gary’s favourite parts of performing is seeing younger faces in the crowd and knowing the band is reaching new listeners.
He’s had moments where he could share his drumming expertise with aspiring musicians or talk to fans about their love for Genesis.
“I’ll show them a thing or two on the kit if there’s time,” he chuckled. “It’s about making people feel welcome and part of it, showing them that I’m just a regular bloke lucky enough to be in the industry.”
Original Music and Future Aspirations
As for original music, the band members each bring their unique influences, but they acknowledge that Genesis has inevitably shaped their artistic voices.
Gary explained that while he hasn’t heard all the original material by his fellow members, he’s certain that Genesis’ impact is present in each of their creative works.
Looking to the future, GVT plans to expand their setlist, potentially introducing lesser-known Genesis songs while keeping fan favourites alive.
They hope to continue bringing Genesis’ music to both seasoned fans and curious newcomers, inspiring an appreciation for a band whose influence has endured across decades.
“If you give someone a good show, they’re going to talk about it,” the drummer noted, “and that’s what we’re here to do.”
GVT stands out by blending respect for Genesis’ legacy with their own artistic contributions. They don’t just cover Genesis; they celebrate its enduring relevance, reminding audiences why this music is worth revisiting—and reinterpreting—again and again.
GVT will be playing in Stirling’s Tolbooth on Saturday, November 30.
Feature Image Credit: Genesis Visible Touch WebPhotos
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