Peter Gabriel's solo catalog does NOT have a single bad song. The man is a legend. This is the perfect starter. May I suggest "Games Without Frontiers" next?
Agreed. He certainly is a legend. For my money at his peak he was one of the best live acts of all time. There was a visceral/palpable energy at his shows earlier in his career. I can count on one hand how many acts gave me that experience.
I dont fell for your agenda at all for various scientific and philolosiphic reasons so I am not going to drive today on that and just stay on good music and you man have a good taste on music!
@@MarkoMakela-kk7qf I don't have an "agenda," buddy. That's one of those Christofascist dog whistles. You label anyone who advocates a different path as having an agenda with every interaction. I do not care what you believe. At all.
I love the “you can’t catch your balance” comment. This is unique in that it’s a 7/4 time signature. Peter comes in on the 5th beat and finished on the 1! So he’s finishing his line and the band is already into the next measure. That’s what masterly created that unbalance feeling. Worth a repeat listen to notice.
More than just the 7/4 is that the meter in the intro and interlude musical parts is 3-4 while it's 4-3 in the vocal parts, so it's an additional level of unbalance. Absolute genius.
@@submandave1125 Yes, agree and agree. This is the structure that Alex and Andy will discover on a relisten. I had my own epiphany listening to this song, too. Quite personal and just as intense.
Shock the Monkey is another song in this style, where it has a grounded beat, but so much controlled chaos going on around it, with a deem emotional core.
Peter Gabriel is one of the most unique artists in rock history. A man who fronted one of the truly legendary progressive rock bands, GENESIS, and left them at their most popular point (at the time) to get away from "the machine" and blazed his own trail with an amazing career arc of creativity and exploration. His first two solo albums were excellent, but his third album is legendary. Introduced me to XTC, THE JAM, KATE BUSH, etc... THAT album (Peter Gabriel III or "melt") even made a hit out of one of the most unlikely songs imaginable, "Games Without Frontiers" AND gave us the famous gated drum sound Phil Collins would make famous ("In The Air Tonight") on "Intruder... as well as the epic story of South African Civil Rights Leader, Stephen Biko. ("Biko") in absolutely stunning closer. So glad you're checking him out. His stuff with Genesis is also worth a deep dive! (You've done "Firth of Fifth" and "Supper's Ready" Loved both reactions!)... Check out "THE MUSICAL BOX," (Tapping BEFORE Eddie Van Halen did it... with Steve Hackett's brilliant guitar work), "DANCING OUT WITH THE MOONLIT KNIGHT" "IN THE CAGE," "BACK IN NYC," "CARPET CRAWLERS"... Lots of amazing work!
Couldn't have said it better. But IV (Security/mask) is also phenomenal. Then So with great pop sensibilities but much more, and Us in 1992, same but ever changing and moving. Also a call out to his Passion soundtrack, which is one of the best lost in the sauce albums ever. PG never had a formula, but instead was ever-innovating. Also big in human rights and internationalizing music by founding WOMAD, world of music and dance. He gave international fame to artists from Africa and elsewhere without being colonialist. And he incorporated international sounds without culture appropriation. Really a remarkable career this guy charted. I some people love post prog Genesis (the two albums after PG left were good prog but had lost some soul with Gabriel's departure). But to me the Collins pop Genesis doesn't hold a candle to Gabriel. Truly one of the most remarkable modern popular musicians. Whenever the rest of the world zigged he zagged in an unexpected direction, yet always made it interesting and profitable. A legend!
I regularly walk on Solsbury Hill, just few miles from my home and where PG used to live just outside of Bath in the UK, where I also once spent a little time with him in 1977!
The live version with Paula Cole is nice, she's a really good singer but the official video with Kate Bush is my favorite. The entire video is one scene, no cuts or edits. That's the kind of talent and creativity these two legends came up with when they made this masterpiece. I saw it live on the 25th of November 1986 in Montréal when Gabriel toured with the album So.
This song is about Gabriel's spiritual experience he had while making the decision to leave Genesis and go solo. The name Solsbury Hill is in reference to the small flat-topped hill (that peaks at about 625 feet) where Gabriel had his epiphany. Gabriel was there at the site of the fort (left over from the Iron Age) on the countryside hill in England looking out on the River Avon and taking in the view of the city of Bath and the natural landscape that surrounds it including the remains of a medieval field system. The hill is believed to be the location of the Battle of Badon from the Belgic invasion of Britain where a fight between the Britons (led by none other than the legendary King Arthur) and the Saxons led to a period of occupation after several huts were burnt down and the rampart was overthrown. But the site was soon abandoned and never to be reoccupied. Appropriately, Gabriel was contemplating his own battle as he mediated atop the hill - his battle to abandon the band he founded and to follow his muse as he set out on his own. In the twilight of his career, Gabriel included recordings of the natural sounds on the hill to form the track "A Quiet Moment" on his 2011 album New Blood.
Right! I didn’t think much of the lyrics to this song until I read, years later, that it indeed has to do with what he was going through as a result of leaving Genesis. After that, the lyrics (for me) added an emotional component to the song that didn’t exist previously. I always loved this song, but my appreciation for it was enhanced after that.
You can feel it in how the song starts off somewhat tentative, where it's "Hey HE said, grab your things, I've come to take you home." But then in the end, it's the singer saying "You can keep my things," and the decision is made, and the playout is such a joyous release, like he's finally free.
In all the years I've heard this song (I bought the album the day it came out), I never really dug into the lyrics. Now that you've laid out the story, I followed along with the song and what a poetic masterpiece. Amazing.
And I think Tony Banks of Genesis wrote the criminally underrated Mad Man Moon about Gabriel leaving just like this is probably about him leaving.Definitely recommend everyone to listen to Mad Man Moon if you haven't, from the first Genesis album without Gabriel.
Gabriel is a master artist, musician. He doesn't take risks, he works soo hard on each song he does. He takes his time releasing albums. He has a new one out right now.
This is one of those great songs that, while obviously referencing something very specific to the artist’s life (In this case, Gabriel choosing to leave Genesis.) it has this epic, swelling, emotional feeling that’s easily impactful for any listener going through some massive tidal shift in their own story. A song that’s anthemic to many people for many reasons.
I come here for the music and the reactions but, increasingly I find that this is one of the few remaining places I can go to hear intelligent comments. Yours is the best one I will see today, no doubt. Could not agree more.
Gabriel is releasing an album he has been working on for 20 years - A NEW SONG EVERY FULL MOON - "PanopticoM "is the first song. Out now. When you talk about Gabriel, you need to talk about marketing strategy. It is fucking brilliat.
This was his first real solo statement after leaving Genesis. For other songs, I know you don't really do videos, but his performance of In Your Eyes from the Secret World Live tour in the 90's (easily available on RUclips), is one of the best live performances of any song you will ever see. Even if you don't react to it, just watch it sometime.
This song is so unique in so many ways. There is no traditional chorus. No snare and minimal symbols. It did not follow any conventional formula for song writing, and yet still became a huge hit and anthem that has become one of his most recognizable songs. Crazy creative.
This is one of my favorite songs by any artist. The musical arrangement is just amazing. I have to admit that while a lot of people know all the words to this song by heart, for me it's all about the music and the sound of his vocals (rather than the songwriting). Definitely an S tier song!
I'm 55 years young. Fm radio was a must. That being said, this is one of those songs that become part of you after listening to it at work for all those years
I absolutely love Peter Gabriel. Beautiful song. What I’d give to be driving down a dark highway on a warm summer night, windows down with this song cranked. Reality check…the song ends, it’s the dead of winter on the cold Canadian prairies, there’s 3 feet of snow outside my window, and it feels like January will never end. Music is such a great escape ❤🎶
OMG I love this song. If it comes on the car radio I stay in the car until it ends. And I adore Peter Gabriel. Best concert that my husband and I have ever been to.
I'm with Andy on this one, it's an alright radio song for me. In fact I thought it was Phil Collins when I heard it on the radio. The boom-boom-boom is the best part, lol.
Damn. 😒 I'm 70! Where does that leave me. They haven't taken a suggestion of mine in 2 1/2 years. I voted for songs that have won, but they play the wrong version always.
@@andyandalex Thanks for asking. Jeff Beck "Cause we've ended as lovers" @ "Crossroads Guitar Festival" in Chicago. Tal Wilkenfield on bass. Outdoor venue! Not the indoor one.
I had always loved the song but really heard it as I was driving several states away to my grandmother’s funeral. She had been ill for a long time and I was grappling with missing her but being happy for her to be free of her pain. I heard these lyrics in a new way of someone preparing to die but they are ready to go and the moment of transition is joyful and triumphant, casting off the body that has been tormenting them. I drove with tears steaming down my face and smiling at the same time, and this song has held that meaning for me ever since. I want this played at my own funeral.
@@jimcoleman6151 Network is actually a compilation album of music originally from earlier Fripp projects. The version of Here Comes the Flood you're talking about (which I agree is the best of the various versions released) was originally on Fripp's Exposure album from 1979, (As is North Star). If you haven't heard it I recommend it. Interestingly Fripp appeared on a recent episode of Live from Daryl's House and played several of the songs they collaborated on that were on Exposure. Originally Hall did most of the vocals on the album but Hall's management told Fripp that Daryl was on so much of Exposure that Fripp would have to bill it as a Fripp/Hall album, so he replaced Hall's vocals on several of the songs to make it a solo record.
I don’t tend to consider that Greatest Hits collections really count as “albums” but Shaking The Tree is so incredibly good that I feel differently about it. Alex and Andy could choose any cut from that album and put a smile on everyone’s face. Peter Gabriel is an artist that just gets better with each and every listen.
The things this song does to me. When I feel chained down by anything, this song sets me free. You will be doubly rewarded by watching a live version of this.
This song grows on you the more you hear it. The 7/4 is just one aspect that makes it awkward unique. On your free time, watch the live version from his Secret World Live Tour. In Your Eyes is my suggestion. I would totally recommend it from the concert I just mentioned because it is the finale and epic, and it makes you feel full of the warmth of life, but hey, you do you
Interesting fact: this one is in 7/8, with the lead in starting on the 6 beat. NOT four on the floor for the kick. It fools you with the last one being a double pulse to make it sound like it's in 4. Also, the descending instrumental melody is all flutes. bass flute, piccolo, normal flutes. Gabriel flute playing with genesis was a unique piece. He's not just a front ma, he knows music and instruments (flue, keys, percussion). Also, throughout his solo career he was one of those musicians who eschewed the use of cymbals. He just thought it cluttered up the sound. Not that they aren't there (Stewart Copeland's (Police) famous hi hat intro to "Red Rain.") But it is optional and used sparingly. Different than almost all other musicians. (80s King Crimson also did this). Also has used the legendary bassist Tony Levin through his solo career (80s-90s King Crimson bassist). Levin doesn't wank on his bass, but his lines and tone are impeccable). Bass orgasms: ruclips.net/video/KkiqTmwEQ-U/видео.html&ab_channel=%E2%99%AAFenderGibsonSounds%E2%99%AA ruclips.net/video/zDPAIvtK8PA/видео.html&ab_channel=TheMusicChannel ruclips.net/video/amoyq8FRurg/видео.html&ab_channel=PeterGabriel-Topic (wait until he breaks out at 3'30") ruclips.net/video/8fajhGQM3DQ/видео.html&ab_channel=PeterGabriel-Topic It goess on. Levin is the ultimate "less is more" bass player. Hot tip: Tony Levin playwd bass on Paul Simon's "50 ways to leave your lover" which you guys dug.
Fulfilled a lifelong dream when I saw Genesis (with Phil) last spring. I've seen Steve Hackett twice. And in the summer I'll be at the O2 in London to see Peter Gabriel. I think that's Genesis covered.
I was 15 in 1977, when i bought this album. (and i still have it). Solsbury Hill is a fave and still sounds as fresh to me as the first time I heard it. ♥
Peter Gabriel is one of the most unique and talented artists of our time. His voice is criminally underrated. And lyrics? His masterpiece of an album, "So" never gets old. He's even better live. All my opinion but this guy doesn't have many drawbacks.
When you listen to this sound like sound track music I remember buying this album for my brother in 1977 in wolworth thank that year the b52 sex pistol queen and ac dc
I think that when Alex and Andy read the lyrics and take a second look at the structure, they are going to come around to how brilliant this song really is. It's a grower guys, you probably already feel that.
I always loved the bright, hopeful sound of this song. And I just read a Wiki description of how it was produced that I think is fascinating enough to paste here: "Producer Bob Ezrin placed some restrictions on the session musicians to give the song its distinctive sound. While earlier versions of the song featured more prominent electric guitar, Ezrin instructed guitarist Steve Hunter to instead perform the main riff on a 12 string guitar, an instrument "he hadn't played in a long time". However, Hunter states that he instead borrowed a Martin acoustic guitar, and Travis picked the voicings with a capo on the second fret. As Ezrin wanted the acoustic guitar to be tripled, Hunter was required to provide three satisfactory takes, all of which had to be aligned with one another. Bob Ezrin used the variable speed oscillator on guitar tracks to achieve the chorusing effect. "Rather than employing a full drum kit, Allan Schwartzberg made do with a shaker in one hand and a drum stick in another, which he used to strike a telephone book. For additional rhythmic textures, Larry Fast constructed a fake drum kit on his keyboard, which he dubbed the "synthibam", although the liner notes credit percussionist Jimmy Maelen with the instrument. After all of the session musicians departed, Fast also overdubbed some additional electronics, including the synth horn orchestration. From verse two onwards, a subdued four note flute riff, played by Gabriel himself, sounds-off the beginning of each section of the lyrics."
This is the song that solidified me as a Peter Gabriel fan. I was aware of his solo career and his big radio hits, but when I first heard Solsbury Hill I knew it was special. Understanding the lyrics are regarding his (what was viewed as an insane) decision to leave the successful popular band, Genesis, to pursue his own path resonates with anyone who's heard their inner voice, stepped away from the obvious path, fought "the machine" and came out the otherside. And believe me after a few more listens, it will be a song you put on repeat and sing along with.. loudly! The live video is exuberant.. a totally joyfully experience.
Glad you’re doing this one by Peter. One of the songs that put a stamp on his solo career even before he skyrocketed to popular with Sledgehammer a few years later.His style is so different that it grows and grows in just about every tune he does. Try reacting to Biko a great and important tune about Steven Biko, a South African protester or fighter for equal rights.
Peter Gabriel is a master. This is one of many of his soul soothers. He does, however, have in his employ one Tony Levin who rumbles things up. I’ll make the comparison that he’s the Jeff Beck❤ of bass…and I’m seeing him in a month…can’t wait…
That “balance” thing Alex referred to is the 7/4 time signature. Very unique. Other s have suggested to watch the performance of this song from his Secret World Live. If you don’t smile at his performance, you need a heart transplant.
Yup -- the first verse orients the listener to that. The kick drum plays straight quarter notes until after the seventh beat, where it hits a quick eighth-note upbeat: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7-and-1...etc.
I love the way the 7-beat meter propels this song, and if you listen to the phrasing, it shifts from 3+4 to 4+3 and back, over and over. Can’t think of another song that does that.
Check out Bowie's "Up the Hill Backwards" from his "Scary Monsters and Super Creeps" album (1980). He switches time signatures almost every other measure throughout the song, which creates some incredible, almost schitzophrenic polyrhythms. Must've been a bitch for the band to learn.
Personally, I LOVE Peter Gabriel....from Genesis through all the "phases" of his solo career. So I'm very much looking forward to A&A getting into this song. Not everyone likes all of Peter's music, but I think Solsbury Hill is one of his songs that's easy to fall in love with, no matter who you are. Cheers!
This is in my top five of favorite songs. Peter Gabriel successfully articulates his spiritual experience in deciding to leave Genesis. “Eagle flew out of the night; he was something to observe. Came in close, I heard a voice; standing stretching every nerve. Had to listen, had no choice. I did not believe the information. I just had to trust imagination. My heart going boom, boom, boom. Son, he said, grab your things I’ve come to take you home. “ I love this song and Peter Gabriel as an artist. “In Your Eyes”, “Red Rain” and “Games Without Frontiers” are other great songs to check out.
There is a story that this song was inspired by a Bruce Springsteen concert. Gabriel has backed off on that, but you can see how this passage, in particular, points to a Springsteen performance and how that musical experience could inspire new musical directions.
You're reading my mind again Alex! Peter Gabriel has never disappointed, always innovative, never takes the easy road and to this day is still touring!
This was Peter's first foray outside of Genesis where he was the lead singer and conceptual artistic genius behind the band. If you listen to the words here he is singing about assembling the courage to make that break: "I was feeling part of the scenery, I walked right out of the machinery, my heart going boom boom boom". Peter Gabriel live in Chicago circa 1983 is probably one of my top concerts ever! Should you decide to delve further into him you will hear some amazing rhythms and African inspired beats. His voice and music can be haunting and hypnotizing... Even though his biggest hit came in the mid-80s with a soulful pop dance classic "Sledgehammer". Check out "Games Without Frontiers" "Shock the Monkey", or "Mercy Street" by him. Now if you'll excuse me I got some Peter Gabriel to listen to.
Yes, I would fault Gabriel only for the fact that the lyrics in the song about the JFK assassination indicate that Gabriel naively buys into the Warren Commission Report propaganda fiction portraying Lee Harvey Oswald as a narcissistic lone nut.
On PG 3, there are NO cymbals. Peter ordered all drummers to leave them off their kits, and that included his former bandmate, Phil Collins. Intruder set the tone for the gated snare sound prevalent from that moment on in Phil's drumming.
As someone who has loved this song throughout my adult life, I can confirm that Alex is right about the song being great during a long mountain drive. It also pops up a lot more often than that in life. When you are searching for a decent radio channel on a drive and you hit a channel playing Solisbury Hill, it's usually a good bet that it's a station you hope will stay in range for a while.
Love Peter Gabriel. One of the most amazing things about "Solsbury Hill" is that it is in 7's and you don't even notice it. You may want to do "I Don't Remember." Tony Levin's work on the Chapman Stick is mind blowing. I think he plays it on this song too and it is the "wobbly" bass sound you are hearing. Also for great Gabriel songs "Games Without Frontiers" and the pop masterpieces "Sledgehammer (do with video)" and "In Your Eyes."
I think his "In Your Eyes" with the Indian ending is my favorite song by him. I also love his "Fear is the Mother of Violence"-- something about the piano part is irresistible.
That's the famous Tony Levin bassist for King Crimson & PG, his favorite bass is a Chapman Stick a 12 string upright electric type "bass". His sound & style is iconic. Tony w the "Stick".: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Levin
First song off his first solo album. Bass player is Tony Levin who a couple years later joined the producer of this album, Robert Fripp, in a revitalized King Crimson. Gabriel started out as a drummer, and his later work is very percussion heavy. Check out The Rhythm of the Heat from his 1982 album (all the first four albums are named Peter Gabriel, and mostly are known by the cover photo or the release date). I also suggest Don't Give Up where he sings a duet with Kate Bush, who pretty much steals the show, particularly on the video. And if you want to explore more of the Fripp/Levin connection that began with this album and continued over 45 years, check out the King Crimson album Discipline. Frame By Frame is a good example of their unique guitar style from that period, which is unlike anything you've ever heard.
This album was produced by Bob Ezrin (who, later on, produced "The Wall" for Pink Floyd). Fripp played some of the guitars on this release. Fripp did, of course, produce Gabriel's second album.
The wobbly ... is a Chapman stick played by Tony Levin.... who also in King Crimson. Witness the greatness of Tony Levin
Peter Gabriel's solo catalog does NOT have a single bad song. The man is a legend. This is the perfect starter. May I suggest "Games Without Frontiers" next?
Shock the monkey is pretty solid too.
Probably need to give the guys some backstory on that song so they can appreciate its genius. SO much depth to the lyrics
Agreed. He certainly is a legend. For my money at his peak he was one of the best live acts of all time. There was a visceral/palpable energy at his shows earlier in his career. I can count on one hand how many acts gave me that experience.
I dont fell for your agenda at all for various scientific and philolosiphic reasons so I am not going to drive today on that and just stay on good music and you man have a good taste on music!
@@MarkoMakela-kk7qf I don't have an "agenda," buddy. That's one of those Christofascist dog whistles. You label anyone who advocates a different path as having an agenda with every interaction. I do not care what you believe. At all.
I love the “you can’t catch your balance” comment. This is unique in that it’s a 7/4 time signature. Peter comes in on the 5th beat and finished on the 1! So he’s finishing his line and the band is already into the next measure. That’s what masterly created that unbalance feeling. Worth a repeat listen to notice.
More than just the 7/4 is that the meter in the intro and interlude musical parts is 3-4 while it's 4-3 in the vocal parts, so it's an additional level of unbalance. Absolute genius.
thanks for the bit of music education from a math and science kinda guy (but PGabriel lover)
Great observations!
@@submandave1125 Yes, agree and agree. This is the structure that Alex and Andy will discover on a relisten.
I had my own epiphany listening to this song, too. Quite personal and just as intense.
seriously, that's the kind of musical info I live for!
Peter Gabriel was born out of the box.
His iconic song "In Your Eyes" is a must listen! 🔥🔥🔥
Yes!!!
I mean, with the prerequisite of watching "Say Anything" first! :D
"Shock the Monkey" is a good start for him in the 80s. That's in my Top 25 of the decade.
Sad
Shock the Monkey is another song in this style, where it has a grounded beat, but so much controlled chaos going on around it, with a deem emotional core.
Peter Gabriel is one of the most unique artists in rock history. A man who fronted one of the truly legendary progressive rock bands, GENESIS, and left them at their most popular point (at the time) to get away from "the machine" and blazed his own trail with an amazing career arc of creativity and exploration. His first two solo albums were excellent, but his third album is legendary. Introduced me to XTC, THE JAM, KATE BUSH, etc... THAT album (Peter Gabriel III or "melt") even made a hit out of one of the most unlikely songs imaginable, "Games Without Frontiers" AND gave us the famous gated drum sound Phil Collins would make famous ("In The Air Tonight") on "Intruder... as well as the epic story of South African Civil Rights Leader, Stephen Biko. ("Biko") in absolutely stunning closer. So glad you're checking him out. His stuff with Genesis is also worth a deep dive! (You've done "Firth of Fifth" and "Supper's Ready" Loved both reactions!)... Check out "THE MUSICAL BOX," (Tapping BEFORE Eddie Van Halen did it... with Steve Hackett's brilliant guitar work), "DANCING OUT WITH THE MOONLIT KNIGHT" "IN THE CAGE," "BACK IN NYC," "CARPET CRAWLERS"... Lots of amazing work!
PG'80. Absolute masterpiece.
Couldn't have said it better. But IV (Security/mask) is also phenomenal. Then So with great pop sensibilities but much more, and Us in 1992, same but ever changing and moving. Also a call out to his Passion soundtrack, which is one of the best lost in the sauce albums ever. PG never had a formula, but instead was ever-innovating. Also big in human rights and internationalizing music by founding WOMAD, world of music and dance. He gave international fame to artists from Africa and elsewhere without being colonialist. And he incorporated international sounds without culture appropriation. Really a remarkable career this guy charted.
I some people love post prog Genesis (the two albums after PG left were good prog but had lost some soul with Gabriel's departure). But to me the Collins pop Genesis doesn't hold a candle to Gabriel. Truly one of the most remarkable modern popular musicians. Whenever the rest of the world zigged he zagged in an unexpected direction, yet always made it interesting and profitable. A legend!
The drumming on his 3rd album is also notable for featuring no cymbals.
@@trickygoose2 Same with PG4.
Album #4 (Security) is also phenomenal!
I regularly walk on Solsbury Hill, just few miles from my home and where PG used to live just outside of Bath in the UK, where I also once spent a little time with him in 1977!
That is definitely a place on my bucket list
Gabriel's "Don't give up" duet with Kate Bush is worth a listen. Two musical pioneers for the price of one.
I much prefer the live version on Secret World Tour with Paula Cole.
@@pedroV2003I agree
The live version with Paula Cole is nice, she's a really good singer but the official video with Kate Bush is my favorite. The entire video is one scene, no cuts or edits. That's the kind of talent and creativity these two legends came up with when they made this masterpiece. I saw it live on the 25th of November 1986 in Montréal when Gabriel toured with the album So.
The “effortless” transition into gospel style in the middle of the song is sublime. Haven’t heard anything else like it.
Paula was better.
This song is about Gabriel's spiritual experience he had while making the decision to leave Genesis and go solo.
The name Solsbury Hill is in reference to the small flat-topped hill (that peaks at about 625 feet) where Gabriel had his epiphany. Gabriel was there at the site of the fort (left over from the Iron Age) on the countryside hill in England looking out on the River Avon and taking in the view of the city of Bath and the natural landscape that surrounds it including the remains of a medieval field system.
The hill is believed to be the location of the Battle of Badon from the Belgic invasion of Britain where a fight between the Britons (led by none other than the legendary King Arthur) and the Saxons led to a period of occupation after several huts were burnt down and the rampart was overthrown. But the site was soon abandoned and never to be reoccupied.
Appropriately, Gabriel was contemplating his own battle as he mediated atop the hill - his battle to abandon the band he founded and to follow his muse as he set out on his own. In the twilight of his career, Gabriel included recordings of the natural sounds on the hill to form the track "A Quiet Moment" on his 2011 album New Blood.
Right! I didn’t think much of the lyrics to this song until I read, years later, that it indeed has to do with what he was going through as a result of leaving Genesis. After that, the lyrics (for me) added an emotional component to the song that didn’t exist previously. I always loved this song, but my appreciation for it was enhanced after that.
You can feel it in how the song starts off somewhat tentative, where it's "Hey HE said, grab your things, I've come to take you home." But then in the end, it's the singer saying "You can keep my things," and the decision is made, and the playout is such a joyous release, like he's finally free.
I never knew that! Now, I love the song even more. Thank you.
In all the years I've heard this song (I bought the album the day it came out), I never really dug into the lyrics. Now that you've laid out the story, I followed along with the song and what a poetic masterpiece. Amazing.
And I think Tony Banks of Genesis wrote the criminally underrated Mad Man Moon about Gabriel leaving just like this is probably about him leaving.Definitely recommend everyone to listen to Mad Man Moon if you haven't, from the first Genesis album without Gabriel.
Gabriel is a master artist, musician. He doesn't take risks, he works soo hard on each song he does. He takes his time releasing albums. He has a new one out right now.
'He doesn't take risks' 7:08
pfffft.
This song always makes me feel Happy.
This is one of those great songs that, while obviously referencing something very specific to the artist’s life (In this case, Gabriel choosing to leave Genesis.) it has this epic, swelling, emotional feeling that’s easily impactful for any listener going through some massive tidal shift in their own story. A song that’s anthemic to many people for many reasons.
I come here for the music and the reactions but, increasingly I find that this is one of the few remaining places I can go to hear intelligent comments. Yours is the best one I will see today, no doubt. Could not agree more.
I agree 100%
Yet, resilient and hopeful!
What he said.
@@glenndespres5317 If you want intelligent comments on the MUSIC, not just head nodding and praise, try Virgin Rock with Amy. Amazing insights.
my fave Gabriel song! ♥
Gabriel is releasing an album he has been working on for 20 years - A NEW SONG EVERY FULL MOON - "PanopticoM "is the first song. Out now. When you talk about Gabriel, you need to talk about marketing strategy. It is fucking brilliat.
A&A should catch this tour before we lose yet another legend!!
Agree new song sound like early Gsbrielm Brilliant.
This song is exquisite
You weren't listening to a song, you were listening to a story. It's brilliant.
Progressive Rock Roots!
This song always brings a tear to my eye, not exactly sure why, it touches something so deep
This was his first real solo statement after leaving Genesis. For other songs, I know you don't really do videos, but his performance of In Your Eyes from the Secret World Live tour in the 90's (easily available on RUclips), is one of the best live performances of any song you will ever see. Even if you don't react to it, just watch it sometime.
Absolutely! In fact, the entire concert is outstanding. Great suggestion.
The Daily Doug just did this, great reaction.
Perfect song to experience Peter Live. He is such a great live performer
I'll watch it when I'm feeling down, always lifts me up.
That Secret World tour had Paula Cole performing female singing duties and she blended very well.
"And Liberty, she pirouette, when I think that I am free" is one of my favorite lyrics of all time. Great, great song.
This song is so unique in so many ways. There is no traditional chorus. No snare and minimal symbols. It did not follow any conventional formula for song writing, and yet still became a huge hit and anthem that has become one of his most recognizable songs. Crazy creative.
My favorite A&A reaction is the one where Alex says "Okay" quizzically just after the music starts...twice.
This is one of my favorite songs by any artist. The musical arrangement is just amazing. I have to admit that while a lot of people know all the words to this song by heart, for me it's all about the music and the sound of his vocals (rather than the songwriting). Definitely an S tier song!
wish the song was longer though
It’s the arrangement and the lyrics for me! S tier fosho. One of my most favorite songs everrrrrrrr
They played this on the radio a LOT!! And I'm STILL not tired of it.
It's impossible for me to listen to this and NOT pound my chest when he says "boom boom boom". This song, to me, is just sheer brilliance.
Peter Gabriel is a true Artist, with a capital A
I'm 55 years young. Fm radio was a must. That being said, this is one of those songs that become part of you after listening to it at work for all those years
This song has always felt otherworldly to me. It's definitely a road trip song.
I absolutely love Peter Gabriel. Beautiful song. What I’d give to be driving down a dark highway on a warm summer night, windows down with this song cranked. Reality check…the song ends, it’s the dead of winter on the cold Canadian prairies, there’s 3 feet of snow outside my window, and it feels like January will never end. Music is such a great escape ❤🎶
Mad prediction… You will grow to love this song, more and more the more you hear it. One of his best.
OMG I love this song. If it comes on the car radio I stay in the car until it ends. And I adore Peter Gabriel. Best concert that my husband and I have ever been to.
I'm with Andy on this one, it's an alright radio song for me. In fact I thought it was Phil Collins when I heard it on the radio. The boom-boom-boom is the best part, lol.
I would love for Andy & Alex to listen to Red Rain as their next from Peter Gabriel. I think they would love it too.
Red Rain is another great PG song. Let's hope they get the meanings.
Another of Gabriel's songs that are great, but didn't chart well in the U.S. Not sure why. Fantastic song!
@@GustavPapillon I had that album on cassette in the 80s. It would absolutely be worth doing the whole thing. So many great songs.
@@GustavPapillon yup so good
I had "So" on vinyl back in the day, along with the 4 or 5 - maybe 6 - 12" singles it spawned. The extended remix of Sledgehammer is amazing.
Yay, they took my suggestion! Woop woop woop! (or something. Hey, I'm 58, I don't know what's cool anymore. )
You do in my book.
Damn. 😒 I'm 70! Where does that leave me. They haven't taken a suggestion of mine in 2 1/2 years. I voted for songs that have won, but they play the wrong version always.
@@zappa1952 Hang in there man!
@@zappa1952 Aw c'mon we only play the wrong version..sometimes. And what are some suggestions you'd like us to hear my man?
@@andyandalex Thanks for asking. Jeff Beck "Cause we've ended as lovers" @ "Crossroads Guitar Festival" in Chicago. Tal Wilkenfield on bass. Outdoor venue! Not the indoor one.
I'm not usually one to suggest anything live but Secret World Live is my favorite live album/video.
It’s so good!!
One of the best live albums and, videos I’ve ever seen or, heard. 👍🏻
Every time I hear this song I get the chills. Such a great song by Peter.👍😎
Ive come to realize this man is top 3of my favorite singers of all time.
I had always loved the song but really heard it as I was driving several states away to my grandmother’s funeral. She had been ill for a long time and I was grappling with missing her but being happy for her to be free of her pain. I heard these lyrics in a new way of someone preparing to die but they are ready to go and the moment of transition is joyful and triumphant, casting off the body that has been tormenting them.
I drove with tears steaming down my face and smiling at the same time, and this song has held that meaning for me ever since. I want this played at my own funeral.
"Here Comes the Flood" from this album is an absolute beauty.
YES!
Deffo, album version too not the piano version
To me the best version is the one with Robert Fripp on his Network album. Northstar with Daryl Hall on the same record is awesome too.
@@jimcoleman6151 Network is actually a compilation album of music originally from earlier Fripp projects. The version of Here Comes the Flood you're talking about (which I agree is the best of the various versions released) was originally on Fripp's Exposure album from 1979, (As is North Star). If you haven't heard it I recommend it.
Interestingly Fripp appeared on a recent episode of Live from Daryl's House and played several of the songs they collaborated on that were on Exposure. Originally Hall did most of the vocals on the album but Hall's management told Fripp that Daryl was on so much of Exposure that Fripp would have to bill it as a Fripp/Hall album, so he replaced Hall's vocals on several of the songs to make it a solo record.
Him ,( Gabriel), T. Rundgren, Lori Anderson..ALWAYS outside the box
ALWAYS..
Nice gig, guys..
👍🙏
I don’t tend to consider that Greatest Hits collections really count as “albums” but Shaking The Tree is so incredibly good that I feel differently about it. Alex and Andy could choose any cut from that album and put a smile on everyone’s face. Peter Gabriel is an artist that just gets better with each and every listen.
Peter Gabriel's Steam is a BANGER!
The things this song does to me. When I feel chained down by anything, this song sets me free. You will be doubly rewarded by watching a live version of this.
Great story and rhythmic hook in an odd time signature
What a coincidence! I just booked to see Peter in Birmingham, U.K. in June! This is one of my all time fave songs of his. Whisky…
Wife here..., The Musicality and Voice everything about this song ..,Truly Breath taking!!!😎🤘
This song grows on you the more you hear it. The 7/4 is just one aspect that makes it awkward unique. On your free time, watch the live version from his Secret World Live Tour. In Your Eyes is my suggestion. I would totally recommend it from the concert I just mentioned because it is the finale and epic, and it makes you feel full of the warmth of life, but hey, you do you
anything from secret world
Buckle up boys. So much more from P G
A&A, you’ll love his “In Your Eyes”, "Games Without Frontiers" and "Sledgehammer"!!!
Interesting fact: this one is in 7/8, with the lead in starting on the 6 beat. NOT four on the floor for the kick. It fools you with the last one being a double pulse to make it sound like it's in 4.
Also, the descending instrumental melody is all flutes. bass flute, piccolo, normal flutes. Gabriel flute playing with genesis was a unique piece. He's not just a front ma, he knows music and instruments (flue, keys, percussion). Also, throughout his solo career he was one of those musicians who eschewed the use of cymbals. He just thought it cluttered up the sound. Not that they aren't there (Stewart Copeland's (Police) famous hi hat intro to "Red Rain.") But it is optional and used sparingly. Different than almost all other musicians. (80s King Crimson also did this).
Also has used the legendary bassist Tony Levin through his solo career (80s-90s King Crimson bassist). Levin doesn't wank on his bass, but his lines and tone are impeccable). Bass orgasms:
ruclips.net/video/KkiqTmwEQ-U/видео.html&ab_channel=%E2%99%AAFenderGibsonSounds%E2%99%AA
ruclips.net/video/zDPAIvtK8PA/видео.html&ab_channel=TheMusicChannel
ruclips.net/video/amoyq8FRurg/видео.html&ab_channel=PeterGabriel-Topic (wait until he breaks out at 3'30")
ruclips.net/video/8fajhGQM3DQ/видео.html&ab_channel=PeterGabriel-Topic
It goess on. Levin is the ultimate "less is more" bass player. Hot tip: Tony Levin playwd bass on Paul Simon's "50 ways to leave your lover" which you guys dug.
Yay! Love this song.. My heart goin BOOM BOOM BOOM!!!❤
Fulfilled a lifelong dream when I saw Genesis (with Phil) last spring. I've seen Steve Hackett twice. And in the summer I'll be at the O2 in London to see Peter Gabriel. I think that's Genesis covered.
I was 15 in 1977, when i bought this album. (and i still have it). Solsbury Hill is a fave and still sounds as fresh to me as the first time I heard it. ♥
PG must be a great guy to work with as most of the musicians on PG1 are still working with him now
Peter Gabriel is one of the most unique and talented artists of our time. His voice is
criminally underrated. And lyrics? His masterpiece of an album, "So" never gets old.
He's even better live. All my opinion but this guy doesn't have many drawbacks.
When you listen to this sound like sound track music I remember buying this album for my brother in 1977 in wolworth thank that year the b52 sex pistol queen and ac dc
If you haven’t done “In Your Eyes” by Gabriel you should. Beautiful song
The ultimate song of personal empowerment.
I think that when Alex and Andy read the lyrics and take a second look at the structure, they are going to come around to how brilliant this song really is. It's a grower guys, you probably already feel that.
I always loved the bright, hopeful sound of this song. And I just read a Wiki description of how it was produced that I think is fascinating enough to paste here:
"Producer Bob Ezrin placed some restrictions on the session musicians to give the song its distinctive sound. While earlier versions of the song featured more prominent electric guitar, Ezrin instructed guitarist Steve Hunter to instead perform the main riff on a 12 string guitar, an instrument "he hadn't played in a long time". However, Hunter states that he instead borrowed a Martin acoustic guitar, and Travis picked the voicings with a capo on the second fret. As Ezrin wanted the acoustic guitar to be tripled, Hunter was required to provide three satisfactory takes, all of which had to be aligned with one another. Bob Ezrin used the variable speed oscillator on guitar tracks to achieve the chorusing effect.
"Rather than employing a full drum kit, Allan Schwartzberg made do with a shaker in one hand and a drum stick in another, which he used to strike a telephone book. For additional rhythmic textures, Larry Fast constructed a fake drum kit on his keyboard, which he dubbed the "synthibam", although the liner notes credit percussionist Jimmy Maelen with the instrument. After all of the session musicians departed, Fast also overdubbed some additional electronics, including the synth horn orchestration. From verse two onwards, a subdued four note flute riff, played by Gabriel himself, sounds-off the beginning of each section of the lyrics."
Peter Gabriel stayed relevant in pop and in his art. Not many can manage that with so much grace and without being enslaved to their own ego.
"In Your Eyes" Live is a must from the Secret World tour!!!! Trust me on this!!!
This is the song that solidified me as a Peter Gabriel fan. I was aware of his solo career and his big radio hits, but when I first heard Solsbury Hill I knew it was special. Understanding the lyrics are regarding his (what was viewed as an insane) decision to leave the successful popular band, Genesis, to pursue his own path resonates with anyone who's heard their inner voice, stepped away from the obvious path, fought "the machine" and came out the otherside.
And believe me after a few more listens, it will be a song you put on repeat and sing along with.. loudly! The live video is exuberant.. a totally joyfully experience.
One of my favorite Live performances is Peter Gabriel - in your eyes (secret world live)
Glad you’re doing this one by Peter. One of the songs that put a stamp on his solo career even before he skyrocketed to popular with Sledgehammer a few years later.His style is so different that it grows and grows in just about every tune he does. Try reacting to Biko a great and important tune about Steven Biko, a South African protester or fighter for equal rights.
Cry Freedom is a good movie to follow up the song with👍🍻
Peter Gabriel is a master. This is one of many of his soul soothers. He does, however, have in his employ one Tony Levin who rumbles things up. I’ll make the comparison that he’s the Jeff Beck❤ of bass…and I’m seeing him in a month…can’t wait…
Such an excellent song. You have to check out the brilliant lyrics to fully appreciate it.
As musicians, you should dive into the structure of this tune, the time signatures and composition is awesome!
That “balance” thing Alex referred to is the 7/4 time signature. Very unique. Other s have suggested to watch the performance of this song from his Secret World Live. If you don’t smile at his performance, you need a heart transplant.
Agreed, that’s where that tumbling forward feeling comes from
Yup -- the first verse orients the listener to that. The kick drum plays straight quarter notes until after the seventh beat, where it hits a quick eighth-note upbeat: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7-and-1...etc.
This song has 7/8 time signature, which also leads to that feeling of being off balance 😃
I love the way the 7-beat meter propels this song, and if you listen to the phrasing, it shifts from 3+4 to 4+3 and back, over and over. Can’t think of another song that does that.
Its a bitch to count. Tripped me up for years.
Check out Bowie's "Up the Hill Backwards" from his "Scary Monsters and Super Creeps" album (1980). He switches time signatures almost every other measure throughout the song, which creates some incredible, almost schitzophrenic polyrhythms. Must've been a bitch for the band to learn.
In your eyes , sledgeHammer , so many great songs and all very different .
This track never fails to send chills up my spine and put a big smile on my face .
Peter Gabriel is awesome live! 👍
Saw him twice. Peter Gabriel live is a soul-stirring artistically satisfying experience.
The more you listen to this song, the more you like it. This is one of those songs that really never gets old for me.
In fact, it seems to get newer and newer!
'Creative Dissonance' is a good description for Peter Gabriel.
Personally, I LOVE Peter Gabriel....from Genesis through all the "phases" of his solo career. So I'm very much looking forward to A&A getting into this song. Not everyone likes all of Peter's music, but I think Solsbury Hill is one of his songs that's easy to fall in love with, no matter who you are. Cheers!
Such a great song
This is in my top five of favorite songs. Peter Gabriel successfully articulates his spiritual experience in deciding to leave Genesis.
“Eagle flew out of the night; he was something to observe.
Came in close, I heard a voice; standing stretching every nerve.
Had to listen, had no choice.
I did not believe the information.
I just had to trust imagination.
My heart going boom, boom, boom.
Son, he said, grab your things I’ve come to take you home. “
I love this song and Peter Gabriel as an artist. “In Your Eyes”, “Red Rain” and “Games Without Frontiers” are other great songs to check out.
There is a story that this song was inspired by a Bruce Springsteen concert. Gabriel has backed off on that, but you can see how this passage, in particular, points to a Springsteen performance and how that musical experience could inspire new musical directions.
You're reading my mind again Alex!
Peter Gabriel has never disappointed, always innovative, never takes the easy road and to this day is still touring!
Loved it back in 77, still love it now. One of those songs that sounds AS GOOD every time you hear it, even after 45 (yes, 45) years
Live in the Round. Magic
This was Peter's first foray outside of Genesis where he was the lead singer and conceptual artistic genius behind the band. If you listen to the words here he is singing about assembling the courage to make that break: "I was feeling part of the scenery, I walked right out of the machinery, my heart going boom boom boom".
Peter Gabriel live in Chicago circa 1983 is probably one of my top concerts ever! Should you decide to delve further into him you will hear some amazing rhythms and African inspired beats. His voice and music can be haunting and hypnotizing... Even though his biggest hit came in the mid-80s with a soulful pop dance classic "Sledgehammer".
Check out "Games Without Frontiers" "Shock the Monkey", or "Mercy Street" by him.
Now if you'll excuse me I got some Peter Gabriel to listen to.
They would freak on Games without Frontier s.
Peter Gabriel has one of my favourite voices in rock. Definitely in my Top 10.
So many great solo tracks Sledgehammer, Shock the Monkey, Games without Frontiers etc. Love his music.
Great song in a very unique time signature of 7/4 time. Tap your foot and count to 7, and a new line begins!!
Gabriel's "Melting Face" album is so strong from front to back. You literally can't go wrong with anything from that record.
Absolutely, and Security also. I started to type a list of tracks for them but found myself wanting to type, “the entire album” for those two.
Yes, I would fault Gabriel only for the fact that the lyrics in the song about the JFK assassination indicate that Gabriel naively buys into the Warren Commission Report propaganda fiction portraying Lee Harvey Oswald as a narcissistic lone nut.
"Melt" is, hands down, Gabriel's finest outing.
Peter Gabriel IV, also known as Security, is far and away his best work, which is saying something. Every single song is brilliant.
On PG 3, there are NO cymbals. Peter ordered all drummers to leave them off their kits, and that included his former bandmate, Phil Collins. Intruder set the tone for the gated snare sound prevalent from that moment on in Phil's drumming.
The wobbly drum thing is Tony Levin on bass, I believe.
As someone who has loved this song throughout my adult life, I can confirm that Alex is right about the song being great during a long mountain drive. It also pops up a lot more often than that in life. When you are searching for a decent radio channel on a drive and you hit a channel playing Solisbury Hill, it's usually a good bet that it's a station you hope will stay in range for a while.
in lots of movies too
My favorite song by Peter Gabriel.
Love Peter Gabriel. One of the most amazing things about "Solsbury Hill" is that it is in 7's and you don't even notice it. You may want to do "I Don't Remember." Tony Levin's work on the Chapman Stick is mind blowing. I think he plays it on this song too and it is the "wobbly" bass sound you are hearing. Also for great Gabriel songs "Games Without Frontiers" and the pop masterpieces "Sledgehammer (do with video)" and "In Your Eyes."
I drive my kids nuts in the car listening to the So album. Love Peter Gabriel
The run of mostly unfamiliar songs is interrupted by a genuine classic.
One of my favorite songs. Just great.
I think his "In Your Eyes" with the Indian ending is my favorite song by him. I also love his "Fear is the Mother of Violence"-- something about the piano part is irresistible.
That's the famous Tony Levin bassist for King Crimson & PG, his favorite bass is a Chapman Stick a 12 string upright electric type "bass". His sound & style is iconic. Tony w the "Stick".: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Levin
You guys MUST do Sledgehammer!!! Also his entire album So would be worth a full album reaction!!
Love all PG. But when Sledgehammer comes on, the volume goes way up.
Peter Gabriel Rules his voice is godlike... Amazing ..
This is one of the most inspirational and triumphant songs to me. What a way to announce you're going solo!
S-Tier. Top 20 song of all-time. Andy, an A is hideously low for this masterpiece. I think it will grow on you.
First song off his first solo album. Bass player is Tony Levin who a couple years later joined the producer of this album, Robert Fripp, in a revitalized King Crimson. Gabriel started out as a drummer, and his later work is very percussion heavy. Check out The Rhythm of the Heat from his 1982 album (all the first four albums are named Peter Gabriel, and mostly are known by the cover photo or the release date). I also suggest Don't Give Up where he sings a duet with Kate Bush, who pretty much steals the show, particularly on the video. And if you want to explore more of the Fripp/Levin connection that began with this album and continued over 45 years, check out the King Crimson album Discipline. Frame By Frame is a good example of their unique guitar style from that period, which is unlike anything you've ever heard.
Yes, yes, yes…what he said!
I’m seeing Stickmen next month. Tony Levin with the Chapman bass playing in my living room. Check your local listings!
This album was produced by Bob Ezrin (who, later on, produced "The Wall" for Pink Floyd). Fripp played some of the guitars on this release. Fripp did, of course, produce Gabriel's second album.
Thanks for that correction.