Peter Gabriel i/o

Peter Gabriel’s “i/o” Album Review: He’s Back, Better Than Ever Before

Peter Gabriel’s latest album “i/o” stands not only as a testament to his enduring creativity but also as a potential crowning achievement in a career already brimming with groundbreaking work. Gabriel, a legend in the music industry, has been known for his innovative approach to music, particularly through the 80s and 90s, and “i/o” might very well be considered his best work to date.

The Legacy of Peter Gabriel

Gabriel’s influence on the music world has been profound and multifaceted. Rising to fame with Genesis in the 1970s, he quickly established himself as a visionary artist. His departure from Genesis and subsequent solo career in the 1980s and 90s saw him breaking new ground, particularly with albums like “So” and “Us.” These works were not just commercially successful; they were also artistically daring, blending world music with electronic and art-rock elements, and they solidified his reputation as an innovative and fearless artist.

Groundbreaking Work in the 80s and 90s

During the 80s and 90s, Gabriel was at the forefront of the world music movement, integrating sounds and rhythms from various cultures into his music. His use of innovative recording techniques and embrace of new technologies set him apart. Albums like “So” (1986), with its hit “Sledgehammer,” showcased his ability to merge artistic depth with mainstream appeal, featuring groundbreaking music videos that revolutionized the medium.

“i/o”: A Culmination of Artistic Evolution

Now, with “i/o,” Gabriel seems to have distilled his decades of musical exploration into a singularly impressive work. The album encapsulates his signature sound while pushing into new territories. The dual “Bright-Side” and “Dark-Side” mixes are a clear indication of his continued innovation, offering listeners two distinct ways to experience the same music.

“i/o” is rich with the thematic depth and stylistic diversity that have defined Gabriel’s career. Tracks like “Panopticom” and “The Court” reflect his enduring ability to fuse diverse musical styles while tackling complex themes. The reflective nature of songs like “Playing for Time” and “So Much” suggests a maturity and introspection that might resonate deeply with longtime fans and new listeners alike.

In a career marked by constant evolution and boundary-pushing, “i/o” might be seen as Peter Gabriel’s most comprehensive and compelling work yet. It’s an album that not only reflects his legendary status but also reasserts his relevance in the contemporary music scene. For those who have followed his career since the Genesis days, or those just discovering his genius, “i/o” is a testament to Gabriel’s unwavering commitment to artistic exploration and innovation.

“i/o” marks a remarkable return to the music scene, offering a rich tapestry of sound and themes that reflect both his enduring legacy and his forward-thinking artistic vision. This long-awaited album, released track by track every full moon, showcases Gabriel’s unique approach to music-making and his ability to blend a wide range of styles and themes into a cohesive whole.

The Evolution of Sound and Style

The album’s opener, “Panopticom,” is a standout track that immediately sets the stage for what’s to come. It combines acoustic elements with electronic influences, creating a soundscape that is quintessentially Gabriel. The use of a 12-string guitar alongside Tony Levin’s deep bass tones and a blend of electronica exemplifies Gabriel’s knack for combining traditional and modern elements. This stylistic choice echoes back to his previous works, especially “Up” and “Us,” while introducing new textures and tones.

Exploring Deep Themes

Throughout “i/o”, Gabriel doesn’t shy away from diving into complex and often challenging themes. For instance, “The Court” revisits the tribal rhythms of his earlier work while layering in a haunting choir that contemplates the nature of justice in the era of cancel culture. Similarly, “Four Kinds of Horses” is a sensitive exploration of the corruption of religious faith into terrorism, backed by an evocative musical arrangement.

Personal Reflections and Contemplations

The album also has a deeply reflective side, with songs like “Playing for Time” and “So Much” exploring themes of mortality, hope, and renewal. These tracks reveal their layers over time, both musically and lyrically, providing a sense of peace amidst the inevitability of aging and change. This introspective quality is further exemplified in tracks like “Olive Tree,” which is not only the most commercially accessible song on the album but also a celebration of life and resilience.

Celebrating Life and Rebirth

Tracks such as “Road to Joy” and “Olive Tree” stand out as more upbeat, celebratory moments on the album, offering a counterbalance to its more contemplative moments. These songs embody a sense of joy and rejuvenation, resonating with themes of rebirth, which is particularly poignant considering the long hiatus since Gabriel’s last album of new material.

The Production and Collaborations

The production of “i/o” is notable for its use of both “Bright-Side” and “Dark-Side” mixes, showcasing the postproduction skills of producers-engineers Mark “Spike” Stent and Tchad Blake. This dual approach adds depth to the album, allowing listeners to experience it in different lights. Additionally, the involvement of artists like Brian Eno adds another layer of sonic depth to the album.

A Culmination of Artistic Journey

At 73 years old, Gabriel demonstrates that his creative spark is as bright as ever. “i/o” is not just a collection of songs; it’s a complete artistic statement that encapsulates Gabriel’s career-long journey of musical exploration and innovation. It’s a testament to his ability to stay relevant and compelling in a constantly changing musical landscape.

In summary, “i/o” is a rich, multifaceted work that showcases Peter Gabriel’s unique talents as a songwriter, composer, and musical innovator. Its blend of introspective lyrics, diverse musical styles, and thematic depth make it a noteworthy addition to his already impressive discography. For fans of Gabriel’s work, and for those new to his music, “i/o” offers a profound and rewarding listening experience.

Order or listen here.

black and white book composing document

A Psychological Guide to Harmonic Mixing and Composing

Harmonic mixing is an advanced technique used by top DJs and producers worldwide. It involves mixing tracks that are in the same or related keys, enabling long blends and mashups. The Simple Harmonic Mixing Tool on my website is designed to make this process even more straightforward. It’s an evolution of the Camelot Wheel, providing you with a unique code for each of the 24 possible musical keys (12 major and 12 minor keys). This tool is not just for DJs but also for music theory students and musicians who want to better understand the relationships between different musical keys.

The Emotional Landscape of Musical Keys

Understanding the emotional nuances of each key can add another layer of depth to your mixes or compositions. Let’s delve into the psychological characteristics of each key, along with examples from the electronic music world to illustrate these points.

Major Keys

  1. C Major (8B): Often considered the “default” key in Western music, C Major is straightforward and lacks sharps or flats. It’s the key of choice for simplicity and purity, often used to convey innocence and straightforward emotions.
    • Example: “Xtal” by Aphex Twin captures a sense of nostalgia and simplicity, making it a go-to for ambient sets.

  2. Db Major (3B): A somewhat rare key that’s often used for unique, ethereal sounds. It can evoke a sense of mystery or otherworldliness.
    • Example: “Polygon Window” by Aphex Twin uses this key to create a haunting, yet ethereal atmosphere.

  3. D Major (10B): Known for its uplifting and triumphant feel, D Major is frequently used to convey joy and happiness. It’s a key that’s often used to elevate the mood of a piece, making it ideal for peak moments in a set.
    • Example: “Spastik” by Plastikman uses this key to create a hypnotic, yet uplifting atmosphere.

  4. Eb Major (5B): This key is often used to convey a sense of majesty and grandiosity. It’s the key of the epic, of the grandiose, often used in anthemic tracks.
    • Example: “Strings of Life” by Derrick May uses this key to create a sense of uplifting grandeur.

  5. E Major (12B): Known for its majestic and heroic qualities, E Major is often used in anthems and other grandiose pieces. It can evoke a sense of grandeur and majesty, making it ideal for tracks that aim to inspire or uplift.
    • Example: “Why Does the World Exist” by Max Cooper offers a complex, yet majestic auditory experience.

  6. F Major (7B): Known for its warmth and harmony, F Major is often used in songs that offer comfort, solace, and a sense of belonging. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of warmth and envelopment, making it ideal for more introspective moments in a set.
    • Example: “Vanishing Point” by Matrixxman uses this key to create a warm, enveloping soundscape.

  7. Gb Major (2B): A rare key that’s often used to convey complex emotional textures. It can evoke a sense of complexity and depth, making it ideal for tracks that aim to provoke thought or introspection.
    • Example: “Mentasm” by Second Phase uses this key to create a complex, thought-provoking atmosphere.

  8. G Major (9B): Often associated with the pastoral and the rustic, G Major is the key of the outdoors, of the countryside, and of the simple life. It can evoke a sense of earthiness and groundedness.
    • Example: “Tha” by Aphex Twin captures a sense of pastoral tranquility, making it ideal for more laid-back moments.

  9. Ab Major (4B): Known for its dreamy and heavenly qualities, Ab Major is often used to convey a sense of ethereal beauty. It’s the key of the otherworldly, of the sublime, often used in tracks that aim to evoke a sense of dreaminess or transcendence.
    • Example: “Energy Flash” by Joey Beltram captures a sense of ethereal intensity, making it a go-to for more transcendent moments.

  10. A Major (11B): A bright and cheerful key, A Major is often used in songs that are upbeat, happy, and optimistic. It can evoke a sense of brightness and cheerfulness, making it ideal for uplifting moments.
    • Example: “Inspector Norse” by Todd Terje is a cheerful track that’s both danceable and uplifting, making it a crowd-pleaser in many sets.

  11. Bb Major (6B): Known for its optimistic yet complex qualities, Bb Major is often used to convey a sense of complexity tinged with optimism. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of layered emotion, making it ideal for tracks that aim to provoke thought while uplifting.
    • Example: “Acid Tracks” by Phuture uses this key to create a complex yet uplifting atmosphere, making it a staple in many acid house sets.

  12. B Major (1B): Known for its brilliance and optimism, B Major is often used to convey a sense of optimism and brightness, albeit with a level of sophistication. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of sophisticated optimism.
    • Example: “Clear” by Cybotron uses this key to create a futuristic, yet optimistic atmosphere, making it a classic in many techno sets.

Minor Keys

  1. A Minor (8A): A versatile key that’s often used to convey a range of emotions from sadness to introspection. It’s a key that’s as flexible as it is popular, often used in tracks that aim to evoke complex emotional landscapes.
    • Example: “Windowlicker” by Aphex Twin uses this key to create a complex emotional landscape, making it a versatile track for various moods.

  2. Bb Minor (3A): Known for its mysterious and introspective qualities, Bb Minor is often used to convey a sense of mystery or introspection. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of inward focus, making it ideal for more introspective moments in a set.
    • Example: “Voyage” by Gregor Tresher uses this key to create a mysterious, introspective atmosphere.

  3. B Minor (10A): Known for its darker tones, B Minor is often used to convey a sense of melancholy, introspection, and sometimes even despair. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of emotional depth, making it ideal for more emotionally charged moments in a set.
    • Example: “Dead Skin Cells” by Future Sound of London is a haunting track that perfectly captures the essence of this key.

  4. C Minor (5A): Often used to convey a sense of tragedy or heaviness, C Minor is the key of the dramatic. It can evoke a sense of weight and gravitas, making it ideal for tracks that aim to create a sense of emotional intensity.
    • Example: “Risingson” by Massive Attack uses this key to create a brooding, intense atmosphere.

  5. Db Minor (12A): A rare key that’s often used for deeply emotional pieces. It can evoke a sense of emotional depth and complexity, making it ideal for tracks that aim to provoke thought or introspection.
    • Example: “Schöneberg” by Marmion uses this key to create a deeply emotional atmosphere.

  6. D Minor (7A): Known as the “saddest of all keys,” D Minor is often used to convey a sense of deep emotional weight, often tinged with a sense of finality or loss. It can evoke a sense of melancholy and depth, making it ideal for more emotionally intense moments in a set.
    • Example: “Halcyon On and On” by Orbital captures a sense of melancholic beauty, making it a staple in many chillout sets.

  7. Eb Minor (2A): A complex key that’s often used to convey intricate emotional textures. It can evoke a sense of complexity and depth, making it ideal for tracks that aim to provoke thought or introspection.
    • Example: “Dominas” by Carl Craig uses this key to create a complex, thought-provoking atmosphere.

  8. E Minor (9A): Known for its melancholic yet hopeful qualities, E Minor is often used to convey a sense of melancholy tinged with hope. It’s the key of the bittersweet, of the hopeful lament, often used in tracks that aim to evoke a sense of complex emotion.
    • Example: “Porcelain” by Moby captures the essence of this key with its melancholic yet hopeful tones.

  9. F Minor (4A): Known for its depth and its ability to convey a sense of gloom, sorrow, or existential angst. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of emotional depth, making it ideal for more introspective or moody moments in a set.
    • Example: “Knights of the Jaguar” by DJ Rolando is a deep, introspective track that captures the essence of this key.

  10. Gb Minor (11A): An enigmatic key that’s often used to convey a sense of mystery or otherworldliness. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of enigma and complexity, making it ideal for tracks that aim to provoke thought or introspection.
    • Example: “Age Of Love” by Age Of Love captures a sense of timeless, mystical allure.

  11. G Minor (6A): Known for its ability to convey a sense of sadness tinged with passion or a sense of urgent longing. It’s a key that can evoke a sense of emotional urgency, making it ideal for more emotionally charged moments in a set.
    • Example: “Rez” by Underworld uses this key to create a sense of urgency and emotional depth.

  12. Ab Minor (1A): A rare key that’s often used to convey a sense of haunting or otherworldly qualities. It can evoke a sense of haunting beauty or etherealness, making it ideal for tracks that aim to create a sense of emotional complexity.
    • Example: “Born Slippy .NUXX” by Underworld uses this key to create a haunting, yet uplifting atmosphere.

Practical Uses and Personal Recommendations

The Camelot Wheel and the Simple Harmonic Mixing Tool are primarily used by DJs and music producers to group keys based on their harmonic relationships. Keys adjacent to each other on the wheel are considered compatible and can be mixed or transitioned between more easily than keys that are further apart. This avoids dissonance or clashes between different musical keys, making your mixes smoother and more emotionally resonant.

It’s worth noting that my recommendations for chord progressions are based on my personal experience and expertise as a musician and composer. There are 7 possible following keys that I find harmonious or serve a meaningful corresponding purpose. However, these are my personal recommendations and should always be taken with a grain of salt.

Conclusion

Understanding the emotional nuances of musical keys can significantly enhance your harmonic mixing skills. Whether you’re a DJ looking to create a seamless mix or a composer aiming for a particular emotional impact, the Simple Harmonic Mixing Tool can be an invaluable resource. It simplifies the complex world of harmonic relationships between keys, making it easier for you to create emotionally resonant mixes and compositions.

Feel free to explore the Simple Harmonic Mixing Tool to get a hands-on experience and make your musical journey even more enriching.

I hope this deep dive into the emotional nuances of each key provides you with valuable insights for your next musical project. Happy mixing and composing!

a cassette player with headphones attached to it

The Best-Selling Songs of the 80s in the UK and Germany

I’m delighted to take you on a nostalgic journey again, back to the heart of my youth and a remarkable decade in music – the 1980s. Being born in 1973, my formative years were spent in the midst of an explosive era of music innovation and creativity. The unforgettable melodies, the iconic artists, and the cultural movements that framed this period have left a lasting imprint on me. Each song on this list sparks a unique memory, a moment of time encapsulated within the chords and lyrics of these classic tunes.

Back then, we saw a massive shift in the music landscape, from the raw acoustic and earthy sounds of the 70s, transitioning into the vibrant, electronic, and synthesized beats of the 80s. This era was marked by its pioneering use of new technology, synthesizers, and production techniques, a stark contrast to today’s music that thrives on digital platforms, streaming services, and social media influence. And of course, let’s not forget the extraordinary fashion statements – the big hair, the neon colors, and the shoulder pads that were as bold as the music itself!

Now, join me as we travel back in time, revisit the top-selling and most popular songs in the UK and Germany for each year of the 80s, and explore how these hits shaped the music and culture of the time.

Right before we dive into this musical journey, a little surprise awaits you at the end of this post – a link to a carefully curated Spotify playlist featuring all the top-selling songs from the 80s in the UK and Germany that we’re about to explore. Keep reading and enjoy this nostalgic trip, knowing that a musical treasure trove awaits you!


1980

  1. “Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)” – Pink Floyd
  2. “Call Me” – Blondie
  3. “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” – The Police
  4. “Woman in Love” – Barbra Streisand
  5. “Super Trouper” – ABBA

1981

  1. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
  2. “Bette Davis Eyes” – Kim Carnes
  3. “Endless Love” – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
  4. “Stand and Deliver” – Adam and the Ants
  5. “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” – The Police

1982

  1. “Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners
  2. “Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor
  3. “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” – Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
  4. “Ebony and Ivory” – Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder
  5. “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” – Culture Club

1983

  1. “Karma Chameleon” – Culture Club
  2. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
  3. “Every Breath You Take” – The Police
  4. “Flashdance… What a Feeling” – Irene Cara
  5. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics

1984

  1. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Band Aid
  2. “Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood
  3. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” – Stevie Wonder
  4. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!
  5. “Ghostbusters” – Ray Parker Jr.

1985

  1. “The Power of Love” – Jennifer Rush
  2. “Careless Whisper” – George Michael
  3. “We Are the World” – USA for Africa
  4. “I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner
  5. “Easy Lover” – Philip Bailey & Phil Collins

1986

  1. “West End Girls” – Pet Shop Boys
  2. “Don’t Leave Me This Way” – The Communards
  3. “Take My Breath Away” – Berlin
  4. “Papa Don’t Preach” – Madonna
  5. “Rock Me Amadeus” – Falco

1987

  1. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley
  2. “La Isla Bonita” – Madonna
  3. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston
  4. “With or Without You” – U2
  5. “It’s a Sin” – Pet Shop Boys

1988

  1. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
  2. “A Groovy Kind of Love” – Phil Collins
  3. “One More Try” – George Michael
  4. “Orinoco Flow” – Enya
  5. “Desire” – U2

1989

  1. “Like a Prayer” – Madonna
  2. “Another Day in Paradise” – Phil Collins
  3. “Eternal Flame” – The Bangles
  4. “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” – Soul II Soul
  5. “The Look” – Roxette

And there we have it – a nostalgic look back at a decade filled with iconic hits that defined my youth and the music landscape of the 80s. Each song holds a precious memory, a flash from the past, a reminder of how far we’ve come, and yet, how these classics still manage to inspire and influence us today.

The 1980s was a decade unlike any other, a pivotal period that reshaped music and brought a fresh wave of sound that still reverberates today. Comparing the music scene of the 80s to today’s scene showcases a fascinating evolution – from record players and mixtapes to digital downloads and streaming services. Yet, the magic of music remains unchanged – it continues to inspire, unite, and empower us in so many ways.

As we listen to today’s music, we’re reminded of how it’s built on the foundation laid by these legendary 80s hits. These songs – their beats, their lyrics, their spirit – continue to influence modern artists, reminding us that even though times have changed, good music remains timeless.

Thanks for taking this journey with me, through the highs and lows of the music that marked my coming of age. Music is more than just a melody, it’s a connection to our past and a bridge to our future. I hope these songs brought back fond memories for you as well and continue to inspire as we navigate the rhythm of life.

Till the next nostalgic trip, keep the music playing!

As a special treat to accompany this nostalgic journey, I’ve compiled a Spotify playlist featuring all the songs mentioned above.