Peter Gabriel - Classic Album: So

Peter Gabriel - Classic Album: So is a captivating documentary focused on the creation and impact of British rock phenomenon, Peter Gabriel's fifth studio album, "So." Originally produced as part of the internationally beloved Classic Albums series, this movie provides an in-depth look at one of the defining albums of the 80s. Starring Peter Gabriel himself, alongside various renowned collaborators and industry experts, the documentary offers an inside look at the creative process behind this groundbreaking album.

From the first frame, viewers are welcomed into Gabriel's world during the mid-80s, an era characterized by blossoming innovation in music and multimedia technology. The film traces the nonlinear evolutionary path, starting from Gabriel's progressive rock origins to the distinctive world-beat and art-rock fusion that marked the "So" album.

The Cornwall-based recording process becomes a focal point, urging viewers to appreciate the intricate recording techniques and collaborative efforts that shaped the album's unique sound profile. Interviews with Gabriel exhibit an unadulterated look into his life and psyche at the time. His thoughtful and reflective insights, intertwined with humorous anecdotes, reveal several underlying themes projected into his timeless compositions.

Several sections of the movie are dedicated to key tracks from the album, including hits like "Sledgehammer," "Don't Give Up," and "In Your Eyes." These song-by-song analyses contribute to the narrative's depth, gradually exposing layers of intricate details embedded within the music. They redefine the listening experience by guiding the audience through the labyrinth of symbolism, lyrical sophistication, and technical brilliance that characterizes each song.

An impressive lineup of contributors, such as renowned producer Daniel Lanois, famed guitarist David Rhodes, and celebrated singer Kate Bush, share their valuable insights and recollections of the "So" sessions. Their accounts add a multi-dimensional perspective, reinforcing the documentary's commitment to portraying a comprehensive picture of the album's creation.

The documentary also delves into Gabriel's pioneering music videos, notably "Sledgehammer", which broke records and redefined music video artistry with its innovative use of stop-motion animation. These segments offer a thorough understanding of Gabriel's artistic vision, both sonically and visually.

Peter Gabriel - Classic Album: So cleverly utilizes archival footage, interspersed with modern-day interviews and commentary. This blending of past and present draws a compelling portrait of an artist at the peak of his creative powers, reinforcing the enduring influence of "So" on subsequent generations of musicians and fans alike.

Furthermore, this film highlights Gabriel's eager adoption of world music elements and digital sampling, showcasing how he masterfully incorporated these into his art-rock template. The documentary explores how this transformation - both in Gabriel's music and in the broader realm of 80s pop-rock - played a crucial role in making "So" an international success and a landmark album in Gabriel's career.

A high point in the film is Gabriel’s collaboration with Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour on the hit "In Your Eyes." It provides an interesting perspective on Gabriel's interest in musical fusion, showcasing his global worldview, empathy, and respect for diverse cultures.

The movie also takes brief detours to touch upon Gabriel's life before the making of "So", painting a clearer picture of his journey as a musician. Insights into his departure from the band Genesis, his experimental solo albums, and his growing commitment to human rights activism add to understanding the multi-faceted man behind the music.

Peter Gabriel - Classic Album: So is a profound exploration of an album that has remained etched in the world of music decades after its release. It portrays not just the struggles and triumphs of creating path-breaking music, but also the enduring impact of such an innovative endeavor. Equally appealing to fans and newcomers, the film provides an engaging, comprehensive, and enlightening account of a culturally significant album and the man behind it. At heart, it is the story of an artist daring to break the mold, inspired by a vision that transcended the boundaries of convention.