Peter Gabriel - New Blood: Live in London

Peter Gabriel - New Blood: Live in London, which was released in 2011, is an immersive piece of musical art that transcends the boundaries of typical concert films. This unforgettable musical odyssey is not just simply about the Grammy Award-winning English singer-songwriter and ex-Genesis frontman, Peter Gabriel performing hits from his illustrious career. Rather, it is a visual and aural experience that makes the viewers feel like they are part of an intimate live concert at the iconic Hammersmith Apollo in London.

In this film, Peter Gabriel, one of rock music's most innovative and singular voices, joins forces with a 46-piece orchestra called the New Blood Orchestra, conducted by the effervescent Ben Foster. The inclusion of the orchestra is the unique selling point of this film as it is not a regular feature in most music concerts. The symphony complements Gabriel’s music perfectly and adds a completely new texture to his famous tracks, creating a blend of rock and classical music that is both refreshing and enthralling at the same time.

Interestingly, there are no guitars or drums which are common instruments for a performer like Gabriel who has had a career rooted in rock. Instead, the film showcases the power of orchestral instruments, bringing in intricacy and intensity, and focusing on the blend of classical arrangements and rock charisma to create a mesmerizing symphony. This interesting mix provides a unique reinterpretation of Gabriel’s hits like 'Solsbury Hill,' 'Red Rain,' and 'In Your Eyes.' The setlist of the film concert focuses mainly on Gabriel's two orchestral albums, Scratch My Back and New Blood, but also includes a few of his classic hits.

The film highlights Gabriel as a compelling frontman throughout the show which is testament to his magnetic personality, charismatic stage presence, and his gift for connecting with the audience. The gifted musician does not merely rely on the power of his monumental voice but rather communicates through his entire body, using calculated gestures and movements that illustrate the mood and meaning of each song.

The film has been shot with 4K cameras and the video quality is simply stunning. Director Blue Leach remarkably captures the essence of the performance, the impressive lighting, and the beautifully orchestrated sets in high definition. Viewers get to see Gabriel and the orchestra in radiant close-ups, which is sure to thrill fans and music aficionados alike.

Adding to the electrifying performance is his striking visual presentation. Gabriel has always been known for his theatrical stage shows, often involving innovative light shows, visual storytelling and imaginative costumes. While this presentation is less theatrical than his earlier work, it captures the same spirit and creative energy. The concert film has an elegant stage design; atmospheric, shimmering lights which often bathe the musicians in a warm, ethereal glow; and thought-provoking visuals projected onto the backdrop.

The sound quality of the film is a magic on its own, taking full advantage of the Dolby surround technology. The audio mixing is superb, with each instrument distinctly audible, creating layers of sounds that encapsulate the viewer. Gabriel's mature voice, rich and emotive, soars throughout, demonstrating his impressive vocal range and mastery of pitch. The backing vocals are tightly harmonized, adding a beautiful depth to the overall rendering of the songs.

Peter Gabriel - New Blood: Live In London is an awe-inspiring concert film with a perfect blend of music, visuals, and emotion. This film is not only a treat to Peter Gabriel fans but also an enchanting experience for any music enthusiast who appreciates the union of rock and classical music. Each song is reimagined and presented so creatively that it offers a newfound respect for Gabriel's lyrical prowess and composition skills.

Overall, Peter Gabriel - New Blood: Live in London is a remarkable musical experience that transcends traditional concert films, becoming an intimate journey into the creative mind of this iconic singer, where each song tells a profound story and each performance stirs the heart. The film is more than just a tribute to the artist's revolutionary influence on music; it is a testament of Peter Gabriel's timeless sounds, sentimental lyrics and his unwavering dedication to his craft.