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So by Peter Gabriel (CD, May-1986, Geffen)

- wham_27(1479)
- 100% positive feedback
As the leader of Genesis in the early '70s, Peter Gabriel helped move progressive rock to new levels of theatricality. He was no less ambitious as a solo artist, but he was more subtle in his methods. With his first eponymous solo album in 1977, he began exploring darker, more cerebral territory, incorporating avant-garde, electronic, and worldbeat influences into his music. The record, as well as its two similarly titled successors, established Gabriel as a critically acclaimed cult artist, and with 1982's Security, he began to move into the mainstream; "Shock the Monkey" became his first Top 40 hit, paving the way for his multi-platinum breakthrough "SO" in 1986. Accompanied by a series of groundbreaking videos and the number one single "Sledgehammer," So became a multi-platinum hit, and Gabriel became an international star. Instead of capitalizing on his sudden success, he began to explore other interests, including recording soundtracks and running his company Real World. By the time he returned to pop with 1992's "US", his mass audience had faded away and he spent the remainder of the '90s working on multimedia projects for Real World. Released in 1986, "SO" became Gabriel's commercial breakthrough, largely because his Stax homage "Sledgehammer" was blessed with an innovative video that combined stop-action animation with live action. "SO" climbed to number two as "Sledgehammer" hit number one, with "Big Time" featuring a video very similar to "Sledgehammer" reaching the Top Ten and "In Your Eyes" hitting the Top 30. As "SO" was riding high on the American and British charts, Gabriel co-headlined the first benefit tour for Amnesty International in 1986 with Sting and U2. Another Amnesty International Tour followed in 1988, and the following year, Gabriel released Passion: Music for The Last Temptation of Christ, a collection of instrumentals used in Martin Scorsese's film. Passion was the furthest Gabriel delved into worldbeat, and the album was widely acclaimed, winning the Grammy Award in 1989 for Best New Age Performance. In 1990, he released the hits compilation "Shaking the Tree". Most people can relate to this man based upon the music he continually produces and is probably respected for his continuous contributions.Read full review
After so many albums with Genesis, Peter Gabriel followed it up with several solo albums before striking gold with So. Probably the biggest single in his career, 'Sledgehammer' became a #1 hit, and So peaked at #2. Additionally, songs like 'Big Time,' 'Red Rain' and 'In Your Eyes' also hit the charts, as videos on MTV boosted sales exponentially. With high-quality musicians that have continued to back Gabriel on and off through the years (bassist Tony Levin, guitarist David Rhodes and drummer Manu Katche), Gabriel continues his solid output and fans loved it. Truly, Gabriel had hit the 'Big Time' and So launched him as an international superstar. I rated this album Excellent because it highlights the career of a brilliant lyricist, vocalist and musician, and yet left room for Gabriel's continued growth and experimentation. This is the crowning achievement of Peter's career, at least so far.Read full review
If you take his entire solo career, this album would be his best. Besides having only 9 songs, this album takes you by quality alone. Peter's voice shows great depth and blends very well with accompanying sound. I would highlight drums, especially in 'Red rain' track. It also invokes deep shades and feeling, like in 'Mercy street'. Here you would find most of his greatest hits and other memorable performances that do not fade with time. Overall, excellent.
One of Peter Gabriel's BEST!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I love this CD!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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