10 Perfect Soft Rock Music Albums Of The '80s

The supergroup's sophomore effort saw them find their surprising calling as a power ballad-focused outfit. First released in 1988, the album was led by singles such as 'Nobody's Perfect' and 'The Living Years'. The latter of those two in particular captured listeners' attention all over the world. Inspired by frontman Mike Rutherford and BA Robertson's discussions on their late fathers, the song provides a moving portrait of generational conflict and mourning.

Many tracks on offer follow the soft rock-heavy power ballad format utilised in 'The Living Years'. The result is a slow-burning, delicate piece of work that sees a very different side of Rutherford considering his work in Genesis' prog-heavy early years.

Combining forces with famed singers Paul Carrack and Sad Café's Paul Young, among other notable figures in the British '80s rock scene, Mike + The Mechanics provided space for every seasoned artist involved to pursue a new sound beyond their usual norms. The results reached an early peak with 'Living Years', providing listeners a humane, melodic effort with high-level production quality and profound lyrics.

In the years since, Mike + The Mechanics' second studio album has received the dubious reputation of being the only LP where Rutherford put as much effort in as he typically did on Genesis releases. Needless to say, the hard work paid off.