Peter Gabriel: New Blood Live in London at the Hammersmith Apollo

Peter Gabriel: New Blood Live in London at the Hammersmith Apollo is a remarkable concert film combining the talents of one of rock and pop music's most innovative artists, Peter Gabriel, with a 46-piece orchestra, offering a fresh take on the artist's illustrious catalogue of songs. This musical extravaganza represents a culmination of Gabriel's 'New Blood' project, where he embarked on an ambitious trip to revisit his songs with an orchestral arrangement, with no guitars or drums.

The beautifully filmed concert, directed by Blue Leach, took place over two nights in March 2011 at London's Hammersmith Apollo, a venue that holds a special place in music history. This concert film is not only a testament to Peter Gabriel's musical prowess but serves as an embodiment of the artist's ability to constantly push boundaries and create innovative, genre-defying music.

The near two-hour long concert showcases Peter Gabriel's immense talent and versatility as he takes the audience on a musical journey. The stage design is sparse compared to a classic rock concert, allowing the orchestra to weave their magic around Gabriel's distinctive, slightly husky, and ethereal vocals. The lighting design and effects complement the orchestral sound, creating a thoroughly immersive experience that captivates the audience from beginning to end.

One of the stand-out aspects of the film is the exceptional quality of the orchestral arrangements. Long-time Peter Gabriel collaborator, John Metcalfe, masterfully breathes new life into Gabriel's songbook, enhancing the emotional potency and depth of songs, and providing a fresh perspective on well-loved classics. The combination of the orchestra's strings, brass, woodwind, and percussion sections create a rich sound tapestry that underlines Gabriel's distinctive voice and powerful lyrics.

Gabriel's selection of songs offer a mix of his most popular hits and lesser-known gems, appealing to longtime fans and new listeners alike. As a seasoned performer, Gabriel can effortlessly command the stage, drawing in the audience with his charismatic presence, heartfelt performances, and stories behind the songs.

The film also has a few surprise elements that demonstrate Gabriel's creativity and theatrical flair. Musicians appear in unusual places, giant puppets loom over the stage, and the silhouette play during 'San Jacinto' adds an extra layer of visual delight - a testament to Gabriel's ability to make his shows a memorable occasion.

What makes Peter Gabriel: New Blood Live in London at the Hammersmith Apollo even more special is the intimate, behind-the-scenes footage that accompanies the concert. It puts a spotlight on the laborious rehearsal process, revealing the hard work and dedication that goes into creating a show of such magnitude. Audiences also get glimpses of the collaborative nature of Gabriel's work as he interacts with members of the orchestra and his team.

While Peter Gabriel is undoubtedly the star of the show, the unique ensemble of musicians that accompany him adds a different dimension to the performances. Each member of the orchestra brings their own personality to the mix, from the smallest contributing element to the most commanding spotlight. The sense of unity and collaboration which comes across throughout the performance is heartening, and it's evident that a great deal of work has been put into creating a seamless and cooperative effort.

Despite the decidedly classical approach to the performance, the energy of Peter Gabriel's rock roots is omnipresent. He fluidly balances the classical elegance and the rock panache, showcasing why he is one of the most respected artists in the music industry.

In summary, Peter Gabriel: New Blood Live in London at the Hammersmith Apollo is much more than a classic concert film. It's a unique and exhilarating fusion of rock and classical music, a tribute to decades of Peter Gabriel's catalog, and a fresh, intriguing take on the live concert format. The film seamlessly encapsulates the magic of live performance and transforms it into a cinematic experience that can be savoured by music and film lovers alike. Regardless of whether you're a long-time fan of Gabriel's work, or new to his music, this concert film offers a captivating experience.