Customer Reviews

So

5 star:		(113)
4 star:		(26)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

1986's "So" was Peter Gabriel's big commercial breakthrough, and it's not difficult to see (or hear) why: "So" has all of the power & passion of Gabriel's previous efforts, but it also has a great warmth to it's songs, as Gabriel's past albums may have sounded a little too dark and serious for the masses of record buyers. "So," however, with it's lighter mood, was welcomed by the public with open arms, and finally catapulted Gabriel out of cult status & into superstardom.Quite simply, every single song on "So" is a masterpiece. Gabriel's singing has never been better, his songwriting here is phenomenal, as is the production, and the marvelous playing of Gabriel and his supreme team of session players, including the reliable Tony Levin on bass and David Rhodes on guitar. Many of these songs are FM radio staples, and have been widely covered by other artists: the thunderous "Red Rain," the smash hit "Sledgehammer" (with Gabriel cutting loose with a big, brassy R&B throwdown), the gorgeous duet "Don't Give Up" (w/ Kate Bush), and the outstanding "In Your Eyes" & "Mercy Street." There's also the great pop-rockers "Big Time" (another big hit), and "That Voice Again," with Gabriel hitting a long high note that is guaranteed to send shivers down your spine. "This Is The Picture" is a terrific, light-groove collaboration with Laurie Anderson, combining singing with spoken word, and the funky guitar of Nile Rodgers. And finally, there's "We Do What Were Told," the song that sounds most like Gabriel's earlier, darker material. It's brief, lyrically simple, but very, very haunting.This new remastered version of "So" sounds sensational, bringing out new sonic textures to the album that I had never heard before, beautiful notes that were previously undetected. However, I am a bit puzzled by the decision to re-shuffle the song "In Your Eyes," so it's now the last song on the album, instead of "We Do What We're Told" (the old vinyl version) or "This Is The Picture" (the old CD & cassette versions). Personally, I think "We Do What We're Told" works better as an album closer, but no matter. "In Your Eyes" is an all-time favorite Gabriel tune, and I'm sure in time I'll get used to it as the new finale for "So."Peter Gabriel's "So" was rightfully nominated for the Grammy for Album Of The Year," but it lost to Paul Simon's "Graceland"---a very good album, granted, but it's not musically stronger than "So," nor has it's impact been as longlasting as "So." The Grammy commitee also goofed big time (excuse the pun) when they passed over Gabriel for Robert Palmer in the Best Male Pop Vocal category. Go figure. But these shocking Grammy injustices take nothing away from Gabriel's monumental achievement with this album. "So" is a classic, sparkling album from the first note to the last, and an important testament to the power of gifted, intelligent songwriting & performing, and as only Peter Gabriel can do it. "So" is so perfect. :-)

For a long time Peter Gabriel and the idea of a commerical breakthrough seemed polar opposites. With So Gabriel suddenly demonstrated that there was a market (again) for intelligent and well crafted songwriting. Although not necessarily PG's best, SO functions as a snapshot of the artist in top form.This edition of SO differs a bit from the original US release. The songs differ both from the original album, cassette and CD releases with In Your Eyes as the final track. On vinyl the last song was We Do What We're Told which made sense both artistically and musically. The CD release duplicated the line up of the cassette release featuring Gabriel's collaboration with Laurie Anderson This Is The Picture (Excellent Birds)as the final track. Reportedly, the track order here was the way the original album was intended to be released. Due to the limitations of vinyl sonics, Gabriel rearranged the line up to the traditional previously released version. The album's original smooth continuity suffers on the remastered edition. The final track (In Your Eyes) is a classic to be sure but putting the chilling We Do What We're Told in its new position robs that powerful track of much of its power. I certainly appreciate the fact that SO is now as its maker intended but there was really nothing wrong with it to begin with.The sound quality is stunning with considerably more depth, clarity and definition. This is particularly noticable on the album opener Red Rain and the two outstanding ballads of the album Don't Give Up and Mercy Street. The latter which is probably one of PG's greatest ballads has more warmth in the sound than ever heard before. SO stands (along with Melting Face aka Peter Gabriel 3) as PG's most compelling and powerful collection of songs. While slicker than Melting Face, it also has a humanity and warmth missing from that dark masterpiece. The two form curious bookends to Gabriel's style and, listened back to back, they each illuminate the other album in unique and powerful ways.The limited edition US digipak is inferior to the traditional vinyl like sleeves issued in Japan. It's something of a bastard child; half vinly artwork/half CD. Really, it doesn't make anyone happy. If the spindle that holds the CD breaks (which, by the way, was the case with half the reissues I purchased), there's no way to replace it. Sadly there are no bonus tracks. Demos, outtakes and b sides would have been welcome. One can understand why Gabriel would want to stick with the original album and not tack on extras; most of the b sides (save the minor classic Don't Break This Rhythm) really would sound of place here. Still, one could argue for the inclusion of the various alternate mixes for Sledgehammer, Big Time and Don't Give Up. I suppose they're saving it for a boxed set so they can fleece the public one more time.The booklet now comes with a number of rare and new pictures. Unfortunately, there's no essay about the making of the album and the credits are standard issue as well. The original song lyrics are included as well but, again, some thoughts on the making of the album would have been interesting.A great album mishandled in its reissue, SO still deserves a place in any CD collection. Gabriel's sweeping stylistic jumps and arrangements finally sound as great (if not, dare I say it, better than) as they did on vinyl. A pity they couldn't have gotten the packaging right.

There is a fan website called "The Church of Peter Gabriel", a rather tongue-in-cheek venture claiming Gabriel as a diety. His prodigious career, spanning over 20 years from its start with Genesis (forgive the unseeming pun...), to his innovative solo work and various side projects concerning human rights, visual art and performances, to his devoted following and, well, the sheer magnitude of his work...maybe that website isn't too far off with its claims.

This album was created in 1986, and as is typical with Gabriel, was a hallmark of the times as well as a surpassant. It is rostered with some of the finest musicians such as bassist extraoridinare Tony Levin, Stewart Copeland of Police fame, etheral songstress Kate Bush and funky art singer Laurie Anderson, superb percussionist Manu Katche, and guitarist David Rhodes. L. Shankar, a premier violinist with unmatched expressive style, also makes his appearance. The album was a stepping point for many of his newer fans, and also a forward stage of evolution for his theatrical style.

The album is famous for it's breakthrough hits, Red Rain and Big Time. The video for Big Time set a precedent when it first appeared, garnering award after award for its mind-blowing animation. Sledgehammer, another hit, was a take-off on British motown style. That Voice Again, an absolute gem, is about the sometimes off again-on again nature of relationships, a familiar theme of Gabriel's. The song itself showcases Tony Levin's impeccable and understated bass playing, and Manu Katche's flawless percussion.

In Your Eyes, another song to become a hit, is one of the most joyful love songs created, as many who have played it at their wedding can attest. Senegaly vocalist Youssou N'dour, an artist in his own right, lends his distinctive vocals to this popular song.

Gabriel is known for his wonderful and image provoking lyrics. Mercy Street, a haunting and dreamlike ballad contains the following: "Looking down on empty streets, all she can see are the dreams all made solid are the dreams made real. All of the buildings, all of those cars were once just a dream in somebody's head. She pictures the broken glass, she pictures the steam, she pictures a soul with no leak at the seam...". This song remains one of my favorites not only for the poetic lyrics, but because they ring a strong personal note for me.

Other songs include We Do What We're Told, an eerie song about the obedience experiments conducted by Stanley Milgram in the 60's. The last song, a quirky duet with Laurie Anderson, is vintage Gabriel in all of his experimental glory, and recalls the music of his earlier years.

Fans of Gabriels' music already have this album firmly ensconced within their collections. If you appreciate popular music that defies labels or genres, I advise you to give this one a try. Gabriel is an artist of vast scope and vision coupled with formidable talent who dares to take risks artistically and musically. He's an artist in the truest sense of the word, and also a man who deserves respect not only for his musical productions, but his other accomplishments as well. His is a music rare...in depth of expression and virtuosity. As he gets older one can only expect him to get still better.

Also try Shaking the Tree: 16 Golden Greats, and US. For the more adventurous, delve into Gabriel's earlier work such as Peter Gabriel I, II and III, and Security. Don't miss his live taped performance Secret World Live...a stupendous production featuring Paula Cole and other guest artists.

While it may not be Gabriel's best album (which I believe to be his third, self-titled album), it is definitely a better introduction to his music. It may be more pop-oriented than his other albums, but it's still one of the best albums of the 80's. "Red Rain," "Sledgehammer," "Mercy Street," "Don't Give Up," "Big Time," and "In Your Eyes" are all stand-outs, particularly "In Your Eyes," which is probably his best known song thanks to the film, "Say Anything." Gabriel combines elements of minimalism, world music, and for the first time, Memphis soul, to create some very compelling, very entertaining music. At times, like "Mercy Street," it floats, sounding very low-key and textured without descending into boring mood music, and other times, like "Big Time," it's a thumping, muscular sound that you can dance to.

Now, you can divide Gabriel's fans into two categories: those who love "Sledgehammer" and those who hate it. It may not be typical of his music, but the Memphis Horns play some nice charts, and the double-entendres are a rare display of humor. Regardless of whether you like it or not, there's something for everyone on this album, so even if you think "Sledgehammer" comes on too strong, you may enjoy something like "Don't Give Up," which is another great single, every bit as uplifting as "Solsbury Hill."

Peter Gabriel took progressive rock to new levels when he was with the group Genesis. He was no less lucrative when he went solo during the latter half of the 70's His solo albums rewrote what pop music was and could extend to. His genius, however, wasn't fully put into effect untill he released his breakthrough album, "So", in 1986.

The album combines the ambitions and artistry of 70's progressive rock with the commercial and popularity attributes of 80's pop music. Gabriel's lyrical themes cover many aspects of life from love and romance to family vaules to career dreams to simple artistic beauty. Not once does he fall flat or fail to express himself completely and honestly.

The album opens with the track, "Red Rain", a haunting pop tune about the terror and destruction of mankind's wars and selfishness. Red rain is the blood of those innocent lives that were destroyed because of it. The next track is, "Sledgehammer", one of the more brighter songs that Gabriel has done. The song is basically just Gabriel having fun with its nonsense lyrics and catchy pop melody. The video to this song is a classic with its flashy special effects and timeless stop-motion animation. Track three is one of the most heartbreaking song ever written by Gabriel or just about anyone else. A duet with Kate Bush, the song is about one of the most important aspects of human life, family. Gabriel tells how he failed his friends and family while Bush tells him that's its alright and not to give up on them. The next track is the only other song about romance other than the closing track. A simple tune about how his lover's voice is the only thing that keeps him going.

"Mercy Street", is about a girl named Anne who apparently lost everything and now dreams of how she can once again find mercy in her father's arms. "Big Time", is about the dream of making it big in the city and becoming famous. "We Do What Were're Told", is a very short and simple tune about a nation who thinks with one mind and has one goal (possibly about communism). "This Is The Picture" is another simple number about finding artistic beauty in simple things like flying birds and falling snow. The album end with one of the more intelligent love ballads to come out in recent years. The song is about how complete and honored Gabriel is to be in his lovers eyes. The song with its unfogettable bass line and world beat drums and chants has became an instant classic.

I cannot think of any progressive-rock albums that have come out since this one did in 86. Sadly this very well may have marked the end of one of the most influential rock styles to ever appear on the music scene. This is another album you cannot go wrong with. If you like intelligent lyrics and artistic melodies you will love this album.

I got this album for one song, the commercially successful "In Your Eyes" and found that I had purchased a gem. This album is definitely in the top 5 albums that I own.

The melodies in the songs are not subtle, they do take some time to get used to but once used to them they are amazing and beautiful. The lyrics are well written and arranged flawlessly.

The only two songs that I am not huge on are "We Do What We're Told" and "This Is The Picture". I'm sure a lot of people would enjoy them but I find them a bit hard to listen to after the rest of the album(on my copy they are tracks #8 and #9, unlike the order Amazon has).

"Sledgehammer" is a great song but I can't listen to it without seeing the clay-mation music video in my mind. In my opinion the three best tracks on this album are "Red Rain", "In Your Eyes" and "Mercy Street".

Looking back on this purchase I would have spend a lot more than what I did knowing that this album is as good as it is. It never gets old. Put this album in and put it on repeat :)

This is wonderful album, with several songs alone that deserve five stars ("Don't Give Up", featuring the inimitable Kate Bush; "Red Rain"; and "In Your Eyes" come immediately to mind).

This is my favourite PG record, and it is beautifully remastered here: the songs sound more lively, denser, and cleaner, though not dramatically so. Wonderful stuff. I am not a fan of the limited edition digipack packaging, however: there is too much chance of scuffing, tearing, or otherwise defacing the album. However, that shouldn't prevent one from buying the disc, which is a timeless listen.

This is the only Peter Gabriel CD that I own, yet it still ranks as one of my all-time favorite albums. There are four very evocative songs here: Red Rain, Don't Give Up, In Your Eyes, and Mercy Street. Red Rain is beautiful in its simplicity. Don't Give Up is the best ballad I know to listen to when I'm depressed...Kate Bush sings like a stream of flowing gold. In Your Eyes is simply an anthem of love and the guitar work on it is excellent. Mercy Street's synthesizers are dark but beautiful. The rest of the songs are very good to excellent, especially Sledgehammer and Big Time, which are very popular.

The guitars on "So" are played by David Rhodes, who played in a band called Random Hold...Rhodes is unquestionably talented here, and doesn't get lost behind Gabriel's vocals and keyboards.

This is the first title that I picked up in Peter Gabriel's newly remastered back catalog. I sold off my original CDs last year when I first got word of the remastering project, and now as of May 7th, 2002 they are finally here. The numbered limited edition packaging has an 11-page booklet, as the 12th page is glued to the inside of the digipak. There are some photo collages from video shoots, concerts, and studio sessions in addition to the reformatted lyrics and credits. However, I was a little surprised that there are no historical notes included. It's a decent but not lavish presentation.

As for the music, the tracklist is the same with the exception of "In Your Eyes" being moved to the end. There are no bonus tracks. The sound is top-notch as I expected, though it was not too bad to begin with in the case of this album. This is a must-have disc, but if you already own the original CD issues in the PG catalog, consider one of his earlier albums first. The sound quality improvements are reportedly more dramatic with those. When I have the money I'll pick them all up and find out for myself. :-)

this is the kind of album that shines a bright light on the 80's. not throw-away stuff like flock of seagulls, or richard marx. peter gabriel goes mainstream, but still sticks to his prog roots on such songs as "red rain" and "mercy street". SO, would be at the top of my list for the best 80's albums. one of my all-time fave songs "in your eyes" would alone make this album worth the purchase. that is just one of many great songs, on a great album in SO.