Plays Live
Peter Gabriel · 1983
66 min · 12 tracks · new wave · pop rock · progressive rock
An electrifying blend of art rock and worldbeat, infused with Gabriel's theatrical vocal delivery.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic emotional journeys long immersive listening sessions wave-like pacing and builds
- Context
- Released on June 8, 1983, 'Plays Live' captures Peter Gabriel at a pivotal moment in his career following his successful album 'Security' (1982). This live album showcases his vibrant stage presence and marks a consolidation of his post-Genesis solo identity, reflecting a growing popularity as an innovative artist blending diverse musical styles.
- If you like
- new wave, pop rock, progressive rock
Plays Live is an album by Peter Gabriel, released in 1983. An electrifying blend of art rock and worldbeat, infused with Gabriel's theatrical vocal delivery. 'Plays Live' is significant for its critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching No. 29 on the Billboard 200 chart. It features iconic tracks like 'Shock the Monkey,' which became one of Gabriel's signature songs, further solidifying his influence in the music industry during the early '80s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Plays Live sound like?
An electrifying blend of art rock and worldbeat, infused with Gabriel's theatrical vocal delivery. Rooted in new wave and pop rock.
What makes Plays Live by Peter Gabriel notable?
'Plays Live' is significant for its critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching No. 29 on the Billboard 200 chart. It features iconic tracks like 'Shock the Monkey,' which became one of Gabriel's signature songs, further solidifying his influence in the music industry during the early '80s. Released on June 8, 1983, 'Plays Live' captures Peter Gabriel at a pivotal moment in his career following his successful album 'Security' (1982). This live album showcases his vibrant stage presence and marks a consolidation of his post-Genesis solo identity, reflecting a growing popularity as an innovative artist blending diverse musical styles.
Who is Plays Live for?
Plays Live works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long immersive listening sessions and wave-like pacing and builds.
How many songs are on Plays Live?
Plays Live has 12 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 I Have the Touch 4:47
- 2 Family Snapshot 4:47
- 3 D.I.Y. 4:06
- 4 The Family and the Fishing Net 7:38
- 5 I Go Swimming 4:54
- 6 San Jacinto 8:17
- 7 Solsbury Hill Standout 4:39
- 8 No Self Control 5:03
- 9 I Don’t Remember 4:10
- 10 Shock the Monkey Standout 7:09
- 11 Humdrum 4:20
- 12 Biko Standout 6:51
Release Date
June 8, 1983
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
66 min 47 sec
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