Peter Gabriel- Rhythm of the Heat/ San Jacinto (First Listen)

[@williamgeorgefraser]

No matter how brilliant Gabriel's work with Genesis was, his solo albums show just how restrained he was by the other members of the group. Once free of them he was able to produce incredible music. San Jacinto is such a beautiful song. You wonder where the song is going and when it reaches its climax it pushes you over the edge. Pure emotion. Then comes "I Have the Touch".

[@SonomaBill1]

and then when 'lay your hands on me' happens, my head and heart explodes....

[@audiotomb]

“A rattle in the old man’s sack......”

[@anthonyrinaldo1133]

Will...The way I look at the whole Genesis phenomenon is that once the players started to scatter, we just had that much more fantastic music to listen to. San Jacinto and Rhythm of the Heat are two favs of mine in re to Pete. However, the Genesis song book post-Pete had some incredible music as well. So it is hard to say Pete was "free" of them. They are thrived in their own ways- all fantastic...I will say this; it is hard to beat that Classic Genesis line-up period of five LPs ending w/The Lamb...However, Duke, Trick, Wind & Wuthering, PG 1-3, Mike & the Mechanics, Face Value, A Curious Feeling and Hackett's solo projects...Wow, what a book of music these guys wrote and played. I think unmatched (along w/The Beatles).

[@patriciaperini7729]

I find Peter Gabriel's voice so unique. When he let's loose there is nobody who sounds like that. It is powerful and inspiring. I never feels he gets the credit he deserves. I've seen him live more times than I can count. He has never disappointed me. He is a true artist.

[@anthonyrinaldo1133]

Ditto Patricia...what a voice.

[@israelhagen]

This is the stuff. “Security” is one of my top 5 favorite records, period. “San Jacinto” I think mixes a few narratives. It contrasts the native people of the San Jacinto region in Southern California with the wealthy resort town of Palm Springs that now occupies that land. I’ve always thought of “I hold the line” as the indigenous person desperately holding onto the last lifeline of his people’s ancestry, culture, history and dignity.

[@ivanhenriqueroberto1970]

Peter Gabriel, without a doubt, is one of the most talented artists of ALL TIMES. Irrepreensible body of work, not only in músic itself.

[@BrianR.]

This whole album is masterful. The Family and the Fishing Net is also a must listen. I prefer Gabriel's solo work much more than Phil's.

[@O_Towne_Bear]

That and "Lay Your Hands On Me"

[@nickavenoso7851]

I like Phil’s, but I agree Gabriel’s solo material is just masterful and incredible! Especially PG1-Us.

[@nickavenoso7851]

@@O_Towne_Bear Love Lay Your Hands On Me.

[@chrisindie]

Peter Gabriel, probably the music genius of our time. Rhythm of the Heat is one of his best songs for sure.

[@spiderbass65]

He opened the show with this in ‘82. I was expecting him to just come out and sing into a mic. The band came out of the audience playing drums, and I was never the same...haha!

[@JustJP]

What a perfect intro!

[@harounel-poussah6936]

*and I was never the same...haha!* So are all those getting in touch with Voodoo...

[@benoitrenaud519]

The bass getting in on "I hold the line" is one of the best musical moments of my life. Goosebumps! Worth listening to loudly and with a very good sound system.

[@SvenTviking]

I saw Gabriel perform it live with both Jerry Marotta and Phil Collins drumming. Utterly mesmerising, at the end, the stage went dark and Peter sang that line “Hold the line, I hold the line” while slowly bringing his hand down into the single white stage verilight that was aiming straight up. When he finished, we realised all the other musicians had left the stage, and Peter had kept the crowd’s attention so well that nobody noticed.

[@unathia]

He always surrounds himself with amazing musicians.

[@giants9833]

I like Collins but Gabriel is a much more interesting songwriter. His first 5 albums are amazing. Some of my favorites are San Jacinto, Wallflower, Red Rain, Here comes the flood, and maybe one of the most perfect catchy songs ever made Solsbury Hill. His voice just conveys so much emotion.

[@Risico16]

Phil's got a stronger voice and overall the better singer of the two (not knocking on Peter though, who is still a strong vocalist himself), but Peter's writing skills are undeniably better

[@funkyfurballs1078]

There's a live version of Here Comes the Flood that's my favorite! I need to go find it again...

[@direnova6284]

Peter Gabriel is one of those rare artists that just follow their latest interest with no concern to what's in or out, lame or cool, commercial or niche. On top of all that , he's such a perfectionist that there are no bad songs on any of his albums, you might not like it but it's always at least interesting or original.

[@MidwesternCornbilly]

Neil Young and Todd Rundgren are the same. They play what interests them at the moment

[@orlandomonaco3475]

Gabriel at his best; ultimate musician and incredible stage presence when performing

[@roddmcleodable]

I recall an interview where Peter said this song was inspired by an experience Carl Jung had doing research with a traditional people in Africa, where he was able to participate in a religious ceremony and the music was so powerful that it shook him up. Peter's opening cry at the start of this song is awesome.

[@JustJP]

Took me by surprise lol

[@harounel-poussah6936]

It goes much further than speaking about Jung... The Ekome Dance Company is from Ghana and did Voodoo stuff

[@keithrichman6918]

San Jacinto is an absolute classic! I remember seeing this performed live in Philadelphia. Simply amazing!

[@jorgejimenez3813]

solo work: Gabriel by an interstellar parsec

[@4ctmam]

This. Phil had a lot of decent songs but Peter made a lot of great albums and at least a few masterpieces. As for Phil, the only solo album of his I consider truly great is his first one, Face Value.

[@manualboyca]

Coming from a prog background, Peter always retained that one element that makes prog music so great - Drama. Peter always had an attraction to the dramatic, both in songwriting and in showmanship.

[@michaelkeller6223]

San Jacinto is so powerful live that when he gets to the chorus, it just explodes with release of the tension he has built up...

[@JustJP]

I can imagine!

[@MrPauljohnhughes]

PETER every time

[@debrabrabenec3731]

This is one of my favorite albums, which I bought when it came out. I love the earthy humanity of it. There is an interesting documentary that I watched recently on KZbin about the making of this album. He went to junkyards and banged on stuff and blew into pipes to get new sounds. I love the way Peter is always exploring, searching, and inviting us to "stretch our wigs!" Plus I SO respect him for all his humanitarian work. All in all, a stellar human being!

[@TheCorrectAnswer56]

One other thing to add regarding the Phil vs Peter debate: This was ‘82 - about 4 years before Peter Gabriel blew up with his 1986 album So. He was all over the charts and winning Grammys left and right with Sledgehammer, In Your Eyes, Big Time, Don’t Give Up, etc... along with videos all over MTV. And what did he do? He climbed back in his hole and waited 6 years to release a follow up album; instead focusing on collaborations and (amazing) film soundtracks like Martin Scorsese’s Passion movie. Phil sought the spotlight and Peter didn’t. Just different approaches to their careers.

[@brucer2152]

"Last Temptation of Christ" his soundtrack for the movie of the same name is a MASTERPIECE.

[@parissimons6385]

Founded WOMAD, too.

[@jeffreyallen3461]

"Shock the Monkey" (same album as these two) had very heavy airplay in it's time and also was on regular rotation for the first year or so of MTV.

[@celestepalm6949]

Rhythm of the Heat: One of the greatest drum songs ever made that's long overdue for an equally awesome animated music video.

[@benoitrenaud519]

One of the best albums ever made by anyone. Brilliantly original.

[@TheCorrectAnswer56]

Lots to unpack. Thanks for the two-fer. Your reaction was mine as well. Not sure about it but interesting enough to explore more and then you just might get hooked as I did. Gabriel used to open up his live shows with Rhythm Of The Heat. He and his band would walk in from the back of the theater through the audience synchronously banging their drums while that eerie droning pipe sound was playing. Then at the end of San Jacinto he would reflect a spotlight with a mirror into the audience after singing “hold the line.” His live shows are unlike anyone else. He brings you into another world and always keeps your attention. And that’s not even mentioning what he did during live shows with Genesis. You’ll have to google image that yourself. Peter had enough radio hits to pay the bills but most of his stuff is unique and experimental whereas Phil was just a hit machine. They are both good friends still and have done many collaborations together. But the Phil vs Peter debate is as old as time itself (and can often get heated between Genesis hardliners so be careful what you ask for lol). Thanks for the reaction!

[@JustJP]

Thank YOU BCB for the suggestion; it definintely piqued my interest. Thats really interesting about how he opened; truly made sense as he was bringing you into that world, just as he describes in the song.

[@daphnethornton4829]

San Jacinto used to bring me to tears when I saw Peter do this live in many of his concerts. What memories I have to always treasure. The man is a pure genious musically and lyrically.

[@rosenfield10]

San Jacinto is one of my favorites. Rhythm of the Heat is neat. That LP is "known" as "Security". The big single was "Shock the Monkey", an incredible song about mankind's decent from the trees to on our knees. So you know Genesis is my #1. Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel are my #'s 3 & 4. Gabriel is the mystic traveler while Phil is the bloke next door. I grew up with Phil, and I thoroughly enjoy almost everything he's done. Peter has more misses for me (but still rarely ), but when he hits it, it's unlike almost everybody. Phil creates great poppy pleasing melodies, catchy, and presented in a well-produced box. Gabriel smashes the box. But with producer/musician extraordinare Daniel Lanois, I think Gabriel's music is incomparable. Phil still gets my #3 ahead of Pete. I love Phil. He took the Phonex Horns torch from Earth, Wind, and Fire and made some of the best Motown extensions mixed with English rock in the 80s, as long as you don't mind the pop and the sap.

[@JustJP]

Thanks Rosen; I can definitely see the differences in career/sound between the two, though I've only seen the tips of both of their respective musical icebergs.

[@mickb2009]

Known as Security in North America in Britain its just Peter Gabriel 4 as its his fourth self titled album

[@SvenTviking]

Remember though, Phil was not responsible for the Genesis pop songs. That was Tony Banks.

[@beldin2987]

Wallflower was always my favorite song from this album. "you have gambled with your own life And you face the night alone While the builders of the cages Sleep with bullets, bars and stone They do not see your road to freedom That you build with flesh and bone " That part is just soo damned good.

[@audiotomb]

I saw this tour in 1982 - the lights dimmed, the members of the band walked down the aisles banging large drums to the beat San Jacinto’s shimmering high motifs are influenced by Steve Reich - a minimist composer Music for 18 musicians is the template An indian youth losing his innocence and heritage as he passes the test You must see the Secret World concert version of this

[@roddmcleodable]

also worth thinking about how Phil was the drummer on parts of Peter Gabriel's 3rd solo album (Melted Face) and their creative collaboration helped create the very popular gated drum sounds of the 80s. Checkout Intruder and In the Air Tonight for an example of this.

[@jimbricker4982]

Ditto what RhythmCloud said. “No Self Control” (also from PG3) has one of the greatest drum fills of all time (thanks Phil) plus Kate Bush vocals. Overall, PG3 is more darkly paranoid than Security, and it’s where PG begins his tribal sonic journeys.

[@johncampbell756]

Yes, 3 is where Peter started writing based on rhythm tracks and not on the piano.

[@O_Towne_Bear]

pg took away all of Phil's cymbals for III (Melt) - listen to it. No cymbals.

[@1nelsondj]

I think this is probably Gabriel's best solo album although the next one "So" was more accessible. This one is more artistic, more progressive. Each song is a painting. His earlier albums are all very good too.

[@Alan-lt6us]

going through your back catalogue of video reactions is like reliving periods of my youth....thank you! Makes me recall periods and events of my history in ways only music can evoke

[@jimbricker4982]

Let us know what you thought of the rest of the album, JP. It is, for certain, epic! Tony Levin’s bass and Chapman stick work is a masterclass. “Lay Your Hands On Me” is a stunner.

[@JustJP]

Slowly workin my way through it, though I skipped STM as I may do a video on it; not sure yet. I'm still undecided on how I feel about it all though lol. I have to process it.

[@harounel-poussah6936]

Just listen to Tony Levin with King Crimson : He joined in 1981... Beware : KC is not for fainted hearts, it's not pop, no matter the era... For the 1981-1984 trilogy, let's say it's the Gamelan-rock and birth of industrial music? Any way, I don't care, the 3 most important rock bands are King Crimson, the Zappa's clique and Magma...

[@stephanevilleneuve9450]

A very artistic performance. San Jacinto is very mystical, hypnotic. My favourite song of his entire catalogue. To your question, Peter Gabriel solo with no doubt.

[@OronOfMontreal]

You got it, man! Album, album, album. "Rhythm of the Heat" is based on the writings of early psychiatrist Carl Jung. He went to Africa to study "primitive man". He was invited to join in on a dancing circle. Before he knew it, the pounding drums had him casting off his mantle of "superior", modern scientist and letting go of all inhibitions. "San Jacinto", as Gabriel would explain in concert, was about a First Nations member he met in the U.S. South-West. As a boy, this man told the singer, he had to follow his tribe's medicine man out of town, into the California desert. They climbed all night up the heights of a San Jacinto mountain. At the top, in the freezing cold, the boy was made to insert his hand into a cloth bag. Inside was a snake! It bit the lad, who was told that he had to make his way alone back down the mountain. If he made it, he was a Brave. If not, he was dead. Peter Gabriel's third and fourth albums, 1980 and 1982, created the music of the 80s. He invented the Sound of the 80s, including the giant drum sound that Phil Collins would exploit so successfully that the "gated reverb drum hit" became associated with Collins instead of Gabriel. Peter Gabriel is my preferred musician of the 80s and beyond. For his brave experimentation and for his influence upon others. And this influence ran toward politics and history as well as music.

[@JustJP]

Thanks for all that Oron! Love the story behind SJ.

[@utubernow1]

I always tend to go with the edgier of the two, Roger Water, John Lennon, Peter Gabriel vs, Gilmour, McCartney, Collins. More Gabriel please. Thanks

[@alexhuxley4399]

I saw him in concert on the tour for this album. Awesome! This was the opening number. They came through the audience with large drums and Gabriel singing. All the people parted like the Red Sea.

[@JustJP]

Thats such a cool way to open

[@bjwnashe5589]

"Hold the line." Could not be more relevant to our current situation.

[@Ifyoudonttakeitucantfakeit]

Great album! I remember buying his new lps on release day and you really never knew what was about to happen. Never failed to amaze me! I love both their solo music. If you want a love song you won’t beat Phil. If you want detail and lyrics that make you think then it’s Peter. We all have different moods and need music to match them. End of day quality shines through with both.

[@jonnykhatru]

San Jacinto is one of my favourite songs of all time... I was sooo happy when you decided to keep listening, I didn't notice it in the title ;D

[@JustJP]

Haha, ty :)

[@FLASHAHOLIC_TV]

San Jancinto needs a few listens, it all builds to the line "Yellow eagle flies down from the sun, from the sun." Live on POV, wow! JP, have you ever heard 'We do what we're told' by Peter Gabriel? Unbelievably atmospheric with tremendous backing harmonies. (Solo works? 1. Hackett 2. Gabriel 3. Phillips 4. Collins 5. Rutherford 6. Banks.) Lay your hands on me is epic, especially live on his POV video, he dives into the crowd backwards

[@JustJP]

Havent heard that one

[@manualboyca]

This CD is one of my favorite cds from ANY artist. It is just so unique and dramatic in such a beautiful way - these two songs especially. Peter Gabriel was always a visionary artistic person. When Phil and Pete were both in Genesis, Pete didn’t do drugs but Phil (and Rutherford) used to smoke pot a lot. Phil said that he couldn’t relate to Pete unless he was high! Lol. That makes sense to me. Once Phil had smoked a couple joints, he could talk to Pete and “get” him. Hope you get a chance to enjoy thus whole CD, and start listening to some Genesis songs with Peter on vocals. I think you’re ready for Supper’s Ready. Keep in mind they were about 22 years old when they wrote it, which is amazing! Love your channel and your insights into music.

[@JustJP]

Thank you Michael! I've listened to the album at this point, its really really good.

[@rpraelsporcupine3112]

If Phil needed to be high to get him, that’s probably because Peter has a natural “high” on him, as in he doesn’t need drugs to let his imagination and his creativity run wild. His mind is so full of ideas that all he has to do is let them loose.

[@bpedroza5340]

The Gabriel style is so much more visceral at it's roots. WOW. The Collins style is different. Strong, loving and rhythmic but very different from perspective.

[@JustJP]

Great description!

[@natewilliams1062]

You did so much good. The first two songs are one and you gave them that respect. Thank you

[@wagnerribeirodesantana1651]

Both are great artists, especially live!

[@rogerhennie8939]

Peter Gabriel, a creative force.

[@audiotomb]

The tribal drum ending also has a witch doctor/dark spirit element. The opening to San Jacinto shows Peter’s interest in Steve Reich’s minimalist music. The intricate percussive twinkling element It has the imagery of clouds lifting along a mountain face as the young indian ascends to the top of the mountain and his initiation into manhood. He views the modern world below - he holds the line on both 1) his life force after being snake bit and 2) his culture dying. I have climbed San Jacinto in winter - very moving.

[@Richard_Jones]

My favourite lyric from Gabriel is "self conscious, uncertain, I'm showered in the dust, the spirit enters into me and I....submit...to trust."

[@SF_Bud]

Really like Phil but Peter Gabriel is the man for me, by far. I'm a diehard Art/Prog rock guy. He's on my short list of all time favorites. I liked your commentary, pretty insightful for someone who probably wasn't born yet when this came out. Being a big BoC fan myself, I appreciated the comment and I can mostly agree with it. What I didn't agree with was the Adult Contemporary comment, which has a very soft middle-of-the-road connotation. This music was VERY cutting edge and experimental at the time. It was probably the first time a lot of people heard the early digital sampling instrument, the Fairlight CMI. Tony Levin's beta stick playing (in addition to bass) brought very unique sounds and elements to Peter's music. This was his fourth solo album since leaving Genesis in 1975, and after some minor hits (in the US at least) Solsbury Hill and Games Without Frontiers, he hit the Big Time (notice what I did there?) with "Shock the Monkey". First it was a good song, and has quite a dance-able beat to it, but also, it had a great video in the early days of MTV (unfortunately before they started giving out awards for videos). He was nominated for a Grammy for Best Male Rock Vocal for Shock the Monkey. Anyway, enjoy the rest of the album. And I would go back and listen to his first 3 albums before moving forward to So. There is a definite progression in his music and it would be good to take it chronologically. Hope you do some more PG videos. So good job and thanks. A 'Like' and a 'Subscribe' for your efforts. Cheers from SF

[@JustJP]

Thank you Bud, appreciate all that. I'll have some more PG coming next week :)

[@gl2700]

Bought Security when it came out (vinyl) Danced around the living room to the drums in ROH. Family thought I went crazy. Saw this tour. It was perfect. Tony Levin's bass resonated through my entire body. Wanted to dance around the fire. Near the end of San Jacinto, somehow Pete's face turned into the head of the album cover. Totally blown away and will never forget! I loathed PC after turning Genesis into a "Pop Band", but forgave him after I heard him referred to as "the cabbage patch kid of rock and roll" on MTV. Really pissed me off! Thanks JP! Great react!

[@earthboundmother205]

Peter Gabriel. I love Phil Collins. Peter Gabriel just took my heart when I was a kid. And he’s had it ever since

[@yes_head]

I own almost every PG solo album, including the soundtracks (Passion is highly recommended.) I don't own a single Phil solo album. Nuff said. Another thing to point out beside the continuing exploration of "world music" that was started on PG 3, the then-brand-new Fairlight sampling computer played a big part in the production of this album. There's a TV program from the UK that spotlighted Peter as he was making this album -- it's worth a look to get inside where he was at the time. But this album was HUGELY influential on a lot of "art rock" music that was happening in early-mid 80s. This is also the era when PG/Eno/Bowie/Fripp/KC/Talking Heads were all cross-pollenating and intersecting. Good times.

[@sidecardog5244]

5 🐒🔌. Bought this album for ‘Shock the Monkey’ and PG’s wonderful vocals. Don’t think I appreciated the “world music” vibe at the time. It’s definitely grown on me. The “So” album is in my top 10 all time greatest records ever made. While I appreciate PC’s solo career, PG’s body of work is far superior, although much less popular among casual listeners. And Holy Moley, his concerts were unbelievably good. Ps, favorite song on this album is ‘I Have The Touch’. The drumming is beyond great.

[@JustJP]

Listening to IHTT right now; I like it so far!

[@justintime42000]

JustJP I think the lyrics for “I Have The Touch” are more relevant today than they were in ‘82. We are so much more isolated from each other today as a society caught up in our electronic devices, whether we live in big cities or smaller ones. A lot of people are searching for more meaningful interactions. I live in NYC so I always liked and related well to “I Have The Touch.” Much of Gabriel’s music is a slow simmer rather than a quick flash. I’m glad you’re liking it!

[@EdwardGregoryNYC]

You hit it right on the head that it takes place in Africa, and the protagonist is an outsider. The outsider is Carl Jung and this song is inspired by Jung's writing about observing African dancers. This is one of my three favorite Gabriel albums, the first album, the third and this one.

[@DavidTimberDKT]

Peter Gabriel, Peter Gabriel, Peter Gabriel....these songs are spiritual journeys.

[@alanatwood1243]

Okay, JP, you fool no one. You knew San Jacinto well and you know you love it! You sneaked that song in to the video as if to say, “Oops, how did that happen?” Nice try, my budding young prog friend! 😊 Love your channel!

[@JustJP]

Hahaha you got me😅

[@EHiggins]

I saw Peter Gabriel in Kansas City when he was touring with a full orchestra they played Rhythm of the Heat and it was amazing the whole show was great. I like both Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, Mike Rutherfod, and Tony Banks solo work because it's like pulling apart the DNA of Genesis and looking at each stand. I have had the hardest time getting into Steve Hackett's solo stuff the most maybe it's the vocals that I have the hardest time with. I've really enjoyed your channel. There are a few others I've watched that do first listens of Genesis and company they may react well to the songs which is good and all, but they don't in depth the way you. It's awesome to see a fresh take on the music I grew up listening too. It's taken for granted now because just about everyone uses samples, but back in the day Peter Gabriel, and Tony Banks were both using and making samples before it was common place. The Phil Collins drum sound on In The Air Tonight was developed when Peter Gabriel was working on his Third solo album the engineer Hugh Padgham (who also produced for The Police, Phil, Genesis, and many others) was using noise gates. Collins was playing a pattern on the drums and Gabriel like the big drum sound and told him to play it for like 10 minutes and it became the song Intruder. Collins played on Gabriel's third album and played some of his live shows for free to support his friend who at the time needed help. Genesis also did a reunion show with Gabriel in the eraly 80's to help him out of a financial bind when he did his first WOMAD festival.

[@JustJP]

Thank you so much for your comments Higgins. I bet that was an intense experience live though, I'd live to see him perform

[@EHiggins]

I've seen Phil solo twice, and Genesis 4 times was so glad to see Gabriel.

[@peppernagre3126]

SWEET two-fer! I'm wondering what you thought of Shock the Monkey? Gabriel is all around better but I do like Phil too. Save some Gabriel reactions for us now. Solsbury Hill , Red Rain, Games Without Frontiers are all great. If you want chaotic and tribal; I immediately thought of Continental Drift by the rolling Stones. And another excellent tribal encounter is Paul Simons album Graceland. She's Got Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes , you may have heard it.

[@uncletom618]

P Simon’s Rhythm or the Saints, with followed Graceland, is AnOther great percussive record.

[@JustJP]

Haha, I'm listening to the album right now and thinking of possibly saving STM. We'll see.

[@jimbricker4982]

No apologies needed for these two tracks! Overall, I enjoy PG’s solo work more, for its diversity and power and emotional depth. That said, Phil’s Face Value is one of my most favorite albums of all time. “Heat” is an overwhelming experience indeed. The sequencing into “San Jacinto” is brilliant, yes. Speaking of sequencing, this album is one of the first uses of the Fairlight sampler / keyboard.

[@JustJP]

Thanks Jim; I didn't think you all would mind :D Maybe I'll have to do some Face Value soon

[@GaryParris]

san Jacinto one of my all time fave gabriel songs but this album is brilliant

[@danielmeola3651]

This is the best Gabriel's álbum, a lot of research for New sounds in África for months, then a lot of studio work with the cassettes recorded in different tribes , great job, there is a video of the making of the record, thanks for the choice.

[@martindavis4632]

How he can write the lyrics and the backing music himself is amazing as there is so much going on. He is amazing and his studio near to where I live is something else. Look it up online

[@michaelhernandez6446]

'The Rhythm of the Heat', was originally entitled, '[Carl] Jung in Africa'. The song is an account of Carl Jung, from one of his Memoirs, while in Africa attending a Indigenous African Ritual, taken-over by the Spirit's invoked during that ceremony. 'San Jacinto', was based upon an account a Hitchhiker, an American Indian, Gabriel had picked-up via car, recounting and commenting upon a story, this American Indian, ( a recent Initiate to an Initiatory Rite) relayed to Peter Gabriel. Do listen to PG4 ( 'Security'), in its entirety. Do seek and watch Peter Gabriel's Remastered 'Blu-Ray' 'So' Concert Tour in Athens (1987) also. Many Gems await you.

[@JustJP]

Appreciate the background Michael!

[@OronOfMontreal]

Yes, the remastered Athens show from '87 will blow your mind. I only wish that there were footage of his Winter of '82 tour, in support of his 4th album (I hate calling it "Security" because his then-new label, Geffen, tricked Gabriel and forced him to accept a title other than his name.)

[@blitztim6416]

Saw him do these songs live in '83. So dynamic. So theatrical. Peter tells stories thru his songs. I was totally into Peter's music back in the day. I really rarely listen to these songs anymore. Fun to hear your thoughts. Pronounce J like H in Spanish. So like San Hacinto. Which mean Saint Hyacinth in English. I lived in a town by that name.

[@-R.Gray-]

When this album came out, it was one of the first all digital albums to be released on the new CD medium, so the sound was pristine compared with the other old albums which were being transferred to CD. It was also one of the first albums to use digital sampling using the Fairlight C.M.I.. For example, the first sound you heard was a "scraped muffler pipe" playing on the keyboard.

[@brendanc.8019]

One of my favorites. I love the build up, the tone, the heart beat. And San Jacinto made me do something I never did as a kid, I studied up on what happened there.

[@gcugar]

Peter Gabriel of course

[@m1t2a1]

Fall of 82. Toronto, Maple Leaf Gardens. Fan freaking tastic concert, touring the album. Even passed a joint to a cop during The Rhythm of the Heat and didn't get in trouble. The band came out of the audience drumming.

[@TheAwsmack]

Oh man, my absolutely favorite PG song (San Jacinto) on my favorite PG album. Truly one of the best songs of all time. Interestingly, the song was written based on a conversation PG had with a native American that worked in the hotel he was staying in, and whom he had agreed to give him a ride to the man's burning apartment to save his cat (no joke!). The man (an Apache) relayed various cultural rites his tribe had in order to become a brave. The title references the San Jacinto mountain range in California (and is not a reference to the Battle of San Jacinto in which Texas won its independence from Mexico, something I, who primarily grew up in Texas, had always believed). It creates a divide between the resort town of Palm Springs and the Indian reserves on the other side, and the song is all about the cultural divide between the wealthy, plasticy side of California, and the rich native culture on the other. Finally, the song was heavily musically influenced by contemporary classical composer Steve Reich and his "Music for 18 Musicians," a piece which was a big influence for many art rock bands of the late 70's and 80's. In fact, the producers of Risky Business had originally tried to commission Reich to compose a piece for that famous train scene (the one with Rebecca De Mornay), but when rebuffed, they turned to Tangerine Dream who imitated his style with the song. As an aside, you should do a First Listen of Steve Reich piece, one of my absolute favorites!

[@michaelbrito2978]

I heard this album when it first came out and was blown away, especially Tony Levin playing a Chapman Stick

[@delmar418]

San Jacinto, is about a young Native American boy's initiation into manhood, by way of a poisonous snake bite. "I hold the line" is a metaphor of the line of life that the initiate must strive to hold onto for his survival. And you're right, it is an introduction into a "world."

[@fieldagent59isintheforest32]

The first song , Rhythm,is a song about Carl Jung's travels to Africa, and his immersion into the culture while there.. the Fairlight sampling / sequencing masterpiece, San Jacinto, is a story about the right of passage for the tribes in and around Palm Springs CA, this magical album is my favorite prog album of all time.........and light-years ahead of its time...

[@BrianR.]

I love anything by Peter Gabriel, so kudos for doing this. Two of my favorite tracks. Still hoping for my Gabriel request, but I know you have many requests to get through.

[@JustJP]

Of course; thank you for sticking around :)

[@robertcartier5088]

"Solsbury Hill" (1977) Peter Gabriel This was his 1st solo hit... "Here Comes the Flood" (1977) "Down the Dolce Vita" (1977) That first solo album was amazing! All of it is good, these are just a few.

[@therealtwiggyleaf]

Thanks for the review. This is my favourite Gabriel album and one of my Top 10 of all time, so I especially liked the double song listen. I think all songs on this album are good but would recommend "Lay Your Hands on Me" as the one to spin. As for Peter v Phil, it's the creative genius of Gabriel for me every time. I have liked some Phil Collins songs as well though. :)

[@JustJP]

Thanks so much for watching Mark!

[@dw_xenophon366]

This is Gabriel’s most vulnerably emotional album. Kiss of Life is my favorite cut off this album. A woman who gives life in celebration and in tragedy.

[@cat-o-matic]

Gabriel vs Collins is a tie. Like Paul Hilburger says, Gabriel is more daring and mysterious while Collins is more straight forward and crafts more radio friendly songs. I remember liking "Shock the Monkey". Seemed like every time I'd come home late at night, this song would be playing on the radio while I was getting ready for some slumber. Well, more like prepping for bed spins.

[@craxanshards3139]

Gabriel also did the music soundtracks for some films. The one for Last Temptation of Christ is worth a listen in your free time. Also, soundtrack for the film Birdy, I haven't heard it in a while, but I recall it being pretty good as well.

[@m.gideonhoyle409]

This album came out when I was in high school. Blew. My. Mind. Gabriel was at the height of his powers then, with a spiritual/shamanic sound that no one else could touch. Still love it to death. Great analysis, btw.

[@JustJP]

Its absolutely mindblowing isn't it? Ty Gideo

[@piratekitten]

Phil is a great pop artist and he writes very good music, Peter is an artist and as an artist he takes risks and not everyone will get it, not meaning to talk down to anyone but he is so different that some will not appreciate his work.

[@sidecardog5244]

Two of my favorite Phill Collin’s songs are from Genesis’ record “ And Then There Were Three”: ‘Undertow’ and ‘ Many Too Many”. I think Tony Banks wrote these and they are exquisite songs. Little bit sappy but IMHO good 🧀 that gets mellowed with age.

[@JustJP]

I like mellow cheese ;)

[@carolsnook4659]

Great to see your comment about ATTWT..Many too Many is the song that got me into Genesis when it was first aired on the radio. .. it's such an underrated album by fans but I absolutely love it. .Undertow and Down and Out are standouts for me...

[@carolball5764]

@@carolsnook4659 also, I might add, I love the album so much that I have 5 copies of it, ( just in case, lol)..

[@wadsmitter511]

So glad you mention Boards of Canada! Love them! I've listened to a lot of BoC, but i never thought about the similarities between them, though i can definently see it now!

[@JustJP]

Ty wads! They're great!

[@rhettheuer-rubalcava5747]

It's Peter, and I frankly don't think it's close; I grew to appreciate Phil much later than I should have, and he deserves lauding for his cleaner sound and skill. That being said, there are few artists in the main stream who are as exploratory and daring as Peter; he is so much more open to influence and experimentation, which makes for some incomparable sounds that most can't match. He transcended somebody who tells stories into somebody who creates feelings with the emotive skill of a true artist. You listen to him to feel an emotion you can't find words for and he serves it up in a bottle you can drink whenever you need it. Have you lost somebody? Are there words for it? No, just feelings, and he's got them. Have you ever left something familiar? Maybe a story gets close, but Peter once again catches that feeling beyond just words buried in formulaic chords. He's not easy listening because his music is hard earned through a life of experiment and experience, and it's meant for people looking for some of the same in their music. In short, if you've felt the sting of life, his music will wash over you like a baptism; if not, you might be confused and frightened by it. Phil is good. Peter is quietly legendary. Some easy recommendations "No Way Out" "Here Comes the Flood" "Red Rain" "Sky Blue" "Secret World" "Come Talk to Me" "Steam" "Shaking the Tree" but honestly, if you're bold enough, go for the whole catalog.

[@JustJP]

Ty Rhett; great way of writing how he expresses himself

[@alexhuxley4399]

I saw this album tour. Such a great concert. Gabriel and his band came through the audience with drums playing the open of Rhythm of the Heat. The crowd parted like the Red Sea.

[@JustJP]

I would've loved to have been there

[@alexhuxley4399]

@@JustJP Yeah, you would have loved it. It was at Maple Leaf Gardens here in Toronto. I saw Rush several times there, Max Webster, Saga, Gary Newman, Yes,. We saw DEVO play a tiny venue before anyone knew who they were. David Sylvian at Massy Hall, Level 42 there are well. We used to get some great bands come through when I was younger.

[@alexhuxley4399]

@@JustJP Sorry ... we had Teenage Head play our high school halloween dance and Saga played a gig in our school auditorium as well.

[@daphnethornton4829]

Peter Gabriel is the one I lean to far more than Phil Collins. The man is a pure musical genius. I absolutely love San jehcinto. I have seen him perform this many times. Seeing him do this live was awesome. When he came out he walking with the band drumming with his face painted just in front of me as I was in the front row of the second section. I said to my husband, which one is Peter Gabriel, and Peter Gabriel just turned and looked right at me.

[@JustJP]

Lol! Love that story!

[@Missjunebugfreak]

Phil Collins is talented but Peter Gabriel's music is infinitely more captivating, unique and creative. He's one of the few artists I consider to be a genius. Nice catch with the Scott Walker reference. He was an amazing fearless artist.

[@darwinsaye]

Peter introduced the world to World Music. He founded WOMAD (World of Music Arts and Dance) and founded Real World Records, bringing attention to musicians from all over the world.

[@BigMacIain]

Also interesting that you mention the resemblance between his voice and Paul Buchanan of The Blue Nile. He was a featured singer on Ovo, the soundtrack to the Millenium Dome Show that PG was commissioned to create to mark the millenium in the UK.

[@BigMacIain]

And of course you meant that Paul Buchanan's voice is similar to Peter Gabriel's, not the other way round. ;-)

[@JustJP]

Hmm very interesting...

[@JustJP]

Lol, couldn't really match the timelines, I just happened to hear the similarities :)

[@nancywood6515]

Please react to Genesis Ripples it is a beautiful masterpiece! I think you will love this song!

[@JustJP]

Thanks Nancy!

[@lawrencegough]

I am a strange fan in that I do not really like Genesis, but LOVE Pete solo. I’m sure you know that he is one of the great proponents of “world music” via his label Real World and the WOMAD festival (which is awesome, and a couple of miles away from me). Any Pete is wonderful, just like Kate Bush, and it is no surprise they collaborated. Right, I’m off to put Pete’s Up on my record player 🙂 Btw I quite like Phil too, but it’s not love 🥰 like for Pete

[@JustJP]

Not strange at all! Thanks for watching and sharing!

[@dennismason3740]

The synth/bass snoodles in I Hold the Line are ultimate dream accents.

[@mickb2009]

I adore the stripped down feel of Rythm of the Heat easily my favourite PG track Peter Gabriel 4 i think is his best

[@JeromeDukes]

I thought your reaction of Natural Science was the best you've done thus far. This reaction just might be you best. While I hold Genisis, PG and PC in high regard, I've never really spent a lot of time listening to their music other than what got airplay and in passing over the decades. I've heard more PC songs compared to PG growing up, however I find PG songs to be more creative and resonates more with my tastes. I've seen a few concerts of both and again i prefer PG in that forum. In regards to the 2 songs in this reaction, I like both. I agree, in context, I would prefer to hear the whole album vs individual songs. Shock the Monkey, was the big hit off this album. Never heard of Scott Walker, David Silvian and something of Canada. I would need song references to see the relation to PG. Please provide, I'm interested.

[@JustJP]

Wow, thanks a TON Dukes; I really enjoyed doing this video and it seems to show :) Oh man, let me use David Sylvian as my example. His works remind me a little of what I've heard so far of PG (currently listening to Security). David Sylvian was the singer for the band Japan, but eventually left and began doing his own solo stuff. His work goes from dark and rhythmic acoustic-driven chamber pop, to the ambient and avant-garde. Take a song that mixes a beautiful and subdued drum with lush acoustics like "Nostalgia" (kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXPYoYZrhbKAqcU), or his more straightforward song like "Red Guitar" (kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmjHdXpno7OaZsU). Or "Damage" (kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYHbp6ePhK6HrMk), which he made with Robert Fripp. From the first time I heard his voice many many years ago, I honestly fell in love with his music. I could go on for days lol. His best album is (by overall opinion) is "Secrets of the Beehive" if you wanna take a listen. Highly recommended.

[@rollomaughfling380]

I have massive respect for Phil Collins, both as a drummer, and a pop hookster, but for me Peter Gabriel is a Titan. Even his most commercial, most accessible stuff is artful, never sappy or facile ("Illegal Alien?!"). I think of them as two drummers who crossed paths, one from a middle-class, one from a working-class background, who danced together for a while, and spun off to very different trajectories in applying their talents. I'm happy they stayed friends through it all. But Peter's ability to so uncompromisingly plumb the depths of his own failures gives his work a gravity that is rare not just in Rock, but in Art in general.

[@JustJP]

Well said Rollo

[@natewilliams1062]

YOUR BOC comp is amazing

[@JustJP]

Ty :)

[@MidwesternCornbilly]

The live version of In Your Eyes will probably be the clip from his Secret Garden Tour. It really is a great live version. I would generally be prone to agree with you concerning live vs studio versions but this performance is, IMHO, superior to the studio version. Peter Gabriel knows how to record and present himself live better than just about everybody.

[@Lwize]

"Security" was the first CD I ever purchased (back in 1984). And I still have it.

[@JustJP]

Nice!

[@lynnwener3856]

I'm for Gabriel on solo work. "Games Without Frontiers" stuns me every time I hear it.

[@TheMonkeyMedicine]

Phil is great. Peter is a man out of time genius. They cannot be compared.

[@carterlink]

I think what you always get with Peter Gabriel is experimentation, but with that will always come stuff you love and lots you don't really care for too. I can't say I'm an out-and-out fan of his solo work, but there are many tracks I really love too. Love San Jacinto, Red Rain and Solsbury Hill to name a few.

[@JustJP]

Seems to be very true from the little I've heard. Thanks Carter

[@Kellerfilm]

Hallo, ich komme aus Deutschland und hörte Genesis mit Gabriel das erste Mal als ich 12 Jahre alt war, ich liebe sie immernoch. Und es ist gut das Gabriel gegangen ist, da sich Genesis viellecht nur noch selbst kopiert hätte, so haben wir aber 2 unterschiedliche, oder sogar 3 unteschiedliche Genesis-Sounds genießen können, plus sämtliches Solomaterial von allen Bandmitgliedern. Ich liebe nicht alles von Phil, aber das meiste ist brilliant. Grüße aus Deutschland von Martin 56 Jahre alt.

[@johncampbell756]

Each of Peter's albums have their own sound. My favorite is 3. Phil sold more and Face Value is excellent but I prefer Peter's more meandering career. Though So sold millions. Security is notable for being one of the first fully digital recordings. What did you think of the album?

[@JustJP]

I thought it was great, go better as it went to be honest. I skipped STM as I may listen to it here, but overall really nice to listen to.

[@johncampbell756]

@@JustJP The songs translate live very well.

[@edwardmeradith2419]

The digital sound is iconic ...was it the Fairlight - very dry sounding, but the first completely digital woodwinds & strings, etc

[@atrickofthefloyd4208]

Hard to pick between Phil and Peter, really depends on my mood. Face Value is one of my favorite albums, which is by Phil, but I also really enjoy So and Up by Peter

[@JustJP]

Different albums for different moods

[@deckofcards87]

Discovering Peter Gabriel :) Lucky you, man. '3' '4' and 'So' are Gabriel's best albums to date. 'So' was a massive hit album for Gabriel... the one with "Sledgehammer" on it. 'Us' is also brilliant. Phil Collins is fine but Gabriel's discography leaves him in the dirt.

[@JustJP]

THanks Samuel!