"Readings From The Book Of Spells" - Mario Giammetti's New Book on Tony Banks reviewed by Alan Hewitt.

Mario Giammetti should not need any introduction to any long time Genesis fan. HIs work as founder and curator of the excellent Dusk Magazine should of itself be enough to make his name familiar. However, in addition to this, his work as an author and chronicler of the world of Genesis and its solo members is truly remarkable.

Mario has managed to document every solo member of Genesis' career in incredible detail in a series of books which have been released at regular intervals over the last twenty or so years. All published in his own language: Italian, they are nonetheless a gold mine of information and illustrated with a wealth of photos and memorabilia, much of it previously unseen.

Mario originally published his book on Tony Banks under the title Man Of Spells in 2006. As usual, it was a magnificent effort one which, even though I couldn't read it, I nevertheless treasured for its detail. I said in my review of it for TWR that it – along with the rest of Mario's work deserved to be published in an English language edition. Thankfully that wish has now been granted and now we have – Tony Banks Man of Spells – The Magician of Genesis. Even a cursory glance through the pages of this new book will reveal the depth of Mario's work. Not that any self respecting Genesis or Tony Banks fan will be giving this a cursory read. This is a book to immerse yourself in and one to relish and revel in the detail it contains. Every aspect of Tony's life and career is covered in this volume. The Genesis section is, of necessity somewhat brief and broken down into “eras” but nonetheless the attention to detail is there.

When Mario gets to Tony's solo career however, this is where this book becomes a real jewel. Every album is examined in detail. Mario has sought out many of the people who contributed to the creation of those albums as well as extensive chats with Tony himself. The end result is a truly remarkable work one which any fan should have on their bookshelves. Tony has said he has no intention of writing his own autobiography. Well, he doesn't need to now, Mario's book is … and I hate using this word but here it is justified...the definitive article on Tony's career – superb stuff!

Mario Giammetti: Tony Banks – Man Of Spells – The Magician of Genesis. Kingmaker ISBN 978-1-9192428-0-4 (Paperback).