Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel · 1978
42 min · 11 tracks · new wave
A fusion of art rock and experimental sounds, blending introspective lyrics with eclectic instrumentation and atmospheric textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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D.I.Y. — This track stands out for its minimalist structure and introspective lyrics, capturing Gabriel's blend of personal reflection and social commentary.
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Mother of Violence — The haunting melody paired with poignant lyrics addresses themes of conflict and human experience, illustrating Gabriel's lyrical depth.
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On the Air Start here — As an opening track, it sets the tone for the album with its experimental soundscapes and exploration of media influence on society.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases innovative songwriting and eclectic instrumentation, establishing Gabriel's distinct voice post-Genesis.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a driving rhythm in 'On the Air', which sets a dynamic pace that is maintained through the first half.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- atmospheric background focus
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album established Gabriel as a solo artist post-Genesis, gaining critical acclaim.
- Themes
- media influence· personal reflection· human conflict
- Career context
- This self-titled album marked Peter Gabriel's first solo release after leaving Genesis in 1975, establishing him as a distinct voice in the progressive rock scene. Coming off the success of his previous albums, Gabriel was exploring new musical territory, experimenting with sound and production techniques that would define his signature style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· Brian Eno· Kate Bush
Tracklist
- 1 On the Air Start here 5:33
- 2 D.I.Y. 2:34
- 3 Mother of Violence 3:26
- 4 A Wonderful Day in a One‐Way World 3:35
- 5 White Shadow 5:19
- 6 Indigo 3:32
- 7 Animal Magic 3:29
- 8 Exposure 4:18
- 9 Flotsam and Jetsam 2:22
- 10 Perspective 3:29
- 11 Home Sweet Home 4:39
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Low
David Bowie
Shares a similar experimental sound palette with introspective lyrics and atmospheric textures.
The Kick Inside
Kate Bush
Combines art rock sensibilities with personal reflection and eclectic instrumentation.
Here Come the Warm Jets
Brian Eno
Explores avant-garde soundscapes and emotional depth, resonating with Gabriel's experimental approach.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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