PETER GABRIEL 2 [AKA: SCRATCH]

This second solo album by Peter Gabriel is usually considered to be weaker than his first, and possibly his weakest ever. Like the debut, this album too lacks direction and Gabriel seems unsure of exactly what he wanted to do at the time. But unlike the debut, this album lacks standout tracks like Solsbury Hill or Here Comes The Flood. The song writing is distinctively average throughout and even the best songs are not really memorable even if they are moderately enjoyable. It is therefore the weakest tracks that stand out from the crowd here, and that is obviously never a good thing. However, I would not say that this is bad music. Just a bit uninspired and quite forgettable in the end.

There are some nice touches of synthesizer (some of which are played by Larry Fast who also contributed to Nektar) but these are outweighed by the presence of saxophone that adds to the jazzy Pop-feeling of the worst songs. The best moments are generally the slow ones that feature only piano and/or acoustic guitars and Gabriel's distinctive vocals. Only here are there any remote resemblances to his old band. Speaking of which, the albums released by Genesis around this time (1976-1980) are extremely much better and more interesting than this or anything else Peter Gabriel did during the period (and ever, I would say). Given albums such as the present one, it is rather funny that Gabriel is often praised around there parts, while post-Gabriel Genesis are often criticized.

I'm not a fan of Peter Gabriel's solo output, but he surely has his moments. But sadly none of those moments occur on the present album. If you intend to investigate Gabriel's solo career, this album is not the recommended point of entry.

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