This one had not given him credit

In 1981 the first solo album by Phil Collins, the former singer and drummer of Genesis. It was produced by himself and Hugh Padgham, which at that time also produced Genesis. The bass was, inter alia, played by John Giblin, guitar by Daryl Stuermer and at a track even by Eric Clapton. Drums, keyboards and vocals were of course taken by Phil Collins. Plus some songs Strings and the Earth, Wind & Fire horn.

"Face Value" hit like a bomb. This was of course to the brilliant song and smash `In the air tonight`, which was right at the front in many countries in the charts. But there are also other good pieces included, such as the two beautiful ballads `The roof is leaking` and` if leaving me is easy` and the great instrumental `Droned`. For this, the already well-known from Genesis `Behind the lines` and knows` of the Beatles' Tomorrow never.
Phil is here clearly away from the Genesis prog rock of the 70s (but that was already in the album "Duke" to feel from the previous year) to a very relaxed, laid-back music. The drum machine of Roland is a striking feature not only this record of Phil (unusual for a drummer). "Face Value" was obviously the right album at the right time. Anyway, Phil became the superstar.

Overall is "Face Value" from today's perspective still a good piece of music. However, since up to `In the air tonight` more about pieces are missing, 4 stars are appropriate here for this very personal work.