Steve is on track to kick off UK tour

CEMENTING his name in musical history by serving as lead guitarist in progressive rock band Genesis from 1971 to 1976, Steve Hackett is still developing his sound.

I managed to catch him for a quick chat on the phone between gigs in Germany, before he kicks off the UK leg of his Train on the Road tour in Exeter next week.

"The tour is being received very well in Europe," he said. "We are selling out everywhere — it's really going bananas, considering my late stage in the game. "It's funny though, as when I'm touring I always feel like I'm just starting out.

"I play some new stuff and some Genesis hits — I like to remind people of when they were hormonal teenagers."

Steve's new album, his 29th solo effort, Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth, is released on Monday, November 16.

"It features many different styles of music, including rock, jazz, pop and classical," said Steve. "There is even a Turkish influence on there.

"I enjoy adapting music from the places I visit. I have been to New Orleans in America many times, where I learned a lot about blues."

Despite solo success and musical freedom, Steve has fond memories of his time with Genesis. He said: "I had an amazing time with the band and to think we used to sell out huge venues like Earl's Court in London is crazy.

"But, I don't have any regrets about retiring from Genesis when I did.

"My allegiance has always been with music. I may not have millions in the bank, although I wouldn't know what to do with it anyway. I wouldn't want to up sticks and become a pig farmer or pilot helicopters. Music is its own currency."

Steve is proud of what he achieved musically with the band. He said: "It's heartening to know that my guitar playing has influenced other people to play. "I remember when Brian May, from Queen, came up to me at a party to tell me that my guitar solos had influenced one his band's tracks."

Steve is sceptical about a Genesis reunion. He said: "With each passing year it becomes less likely that Genesis will reform as band members get older. "Some of the guys have retired from music now and, increasingly, there are health issues to think about.

"I still talk to the band members, like Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins, from time to time. I love them all dearly and the wonderful time we had together."

Steve Hackett performs at Exeter Phoenix on Thursday. Doors open at 8pm and tickets cost £18 in advance. Details: 01392 66708, or visit www.hackettsongs.com.