Can-Utility and the Coastliners
Genesis
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The scattered pages of a book by the sea Held by the sand, washed by the waves A shadow forms cast by a cloud Skimming by as eyes of the past But the rising tide absorbs them, effortlessly claiming They told of one who tired of all Singing "Praise him, praise him" "We heed not flatterers," he cried "By our command, waters retreat Show my power, halt at my feet" But the cause was lost, now cold winds blow Far from the north, overcast ranks advance Fear of the storm accusing with rage and scorn The waves surround the sinking throne Singing "Crown him, crown him" "Those who love our majesty, Show themselves!", all bent their knee But he forced a smile even though his hopes Lay dashed where offerings fell Where they fell "Nothing can my peace destroy As long as none smile" More opened ears and opened eyes And soon they dared to laugh See a little man with his face turning red Though his story's often told you can tell he's dead
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Written by: ANTHONY BANKS, PHIL COLLINS, PETER GABRIEL, STEVEN HACKETT, MICHAEL RUTHERFORD
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, CARLIN AMERICA INC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
About the Song"Can-Utility and the Coastliners" is a song from the English rock band Genesis. It is one of the tracks featured on their fourth studio album, "Foxtrot" released in October 1972.
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Band LineupThe band members at that time consisted of Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, Steve Hackett, and Phil Collins. They each played a pivotal role in the creation of "Can-Utility and the Coastliners".
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Song InspirationThe song is inspired by the story of King Canute (or Cnut), a king of Denmark, England, and Norway in the early 11th century. The title, "Can-Utility," is a play on this historic figure's name.
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King Canute's TaleThe song tells a story echoed from King Canute's tale, where he demonstrates to his flattering courtiers that he has no control over the elements (the incoming tide), debunking the flattery that he is so powerful he could command even the tide of the sea to obey him.
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Musical StyleThis song is usually classified under progressive rock, characterized by complex song structures and sophisticated instrumentation.
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Song Length"Can-Utility and the Coastliners" is one of the shorter tracks on the album, running at around 5 minutes and 45 seconds.
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Live PerformancesDespite being a fan favorite, the song was rarely performed live. It is believed to have been played in its entirety only during the band's tour in 1972.
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Song RevivalSteve Hackett, Genesis' lead guitarist during the Foxtrot era, reintroduced the song during his Genesis Revisited II tour in 2012.
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Album Recognition"Foxtrot," the album on which "Can-Utility and the Coastliners" appeared, is often recognized as one of the highlights of Genesis' progressive rock era.
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Vinyl Record Availability"Can-Utility and the Coastliners," along with the entire "Foxtrot" album, was also released in vinyl format, which is highly coveted by collectors today.
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Citation
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