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Peter Gabriel - So CD (album) cover

SO

Peter Gabriel

 

Crossover Prog

3.86 | 806 ratings

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Chus
Prog Reviewer
3 stars 2.5 stars really.

Peter Gabriel was always an ace when lyrics come around as subject. But, musically, Peter was not the greatest composer, nor the greatest singer and an average flute player. But he has merit for popularizing world music in the 80's, in the same way The Beatles did in the mid 60's. his lyrics are mostly earthbound and deal with life crisis and and tributes to poets and writers. The songs are mostly focused on the 80's beat with african touches in some songs and atmospherics. "Red Rain" starts the album in a very AOR mood, but nonetheless it's full of energy. Probably the most annoying song in this is Sledgehammer, with a very cheesy brass arrangement, even though the female chorus is quite catchy. "Don't Give Up" is a great atmospheric song with african sensitivity (though it's not related to african culture, as far as I've interpreted the lyrics). "That Voice Again" is a synth pop song and doesn't really stick in your head. "In Your Eyes" is perhaps his most famous song, and probably merits it's popularity; it has amazing melody and intelligent tone shifts between verses and chorus are worthwhile of listening; this is a pop music of considerate quality. "Mercy Street" again settles in an afro-beat; another soft ballad with a repetitive riff, but pleasant indeed. "Big Time" is as embarassing as Genesis' synth pop material, and even more annoying than "Sledgehammer". The next two songs are lacking of inspiration and sort of throwout pieces.

If you are a fan of Gabriel-Genesis, I wouldn't suggest this album for you. I don't listen to it much nowadays, but even though I love classic prog Genesis, I don't dismiss this album as much as I do to great part of the "Genesis trio". 2.5 stars rounded to 3.

Chus | 3/5 |

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