Peter Gabriel - Scratch My Back

Now here’s an odd yet interesting idea from Peter Gabriel, one of the most recognisable voices of the last forty plus years – Scratch My Back. Essentially, it’s a covers album but with a rather engaging twist. Every re-interpretation is backed by an orchestra. No guitars, no drums and certainly no synths. So if you’re looking for the massive hook laden choruses of the likes of 'Big Time' or 'Sledgehammer' from the So-era, you best look elsewhere.

Gabriel has a career that has spanned various styles and trends from his prog beginnings with early Genesis to his wide reaching solo work. But one thing he hasn’t done until now is an orchestral covers record. Surely that’s on all our to-do lists?

However, in a welcomed development he’s ventured into tracks both new and old. But there’s a reason behind this album title, as each of the artists covered here will be included on the Peter Gabriel tribute album I’ll Scratch Yours, due for release at some time later in the year.

But for Scratch My Back, the air remains quite solemn throughout with all the instruments complementing each in an enthralling fashion, Gabriel’s voice inclusive. His gentle croon weaves from the hypnotizing to the surreally motivating and uplifting. This can be heard lucidly from the instigation with a stirring version of Bowie classic, 'Heroes'.

Much of the orchestration has made for some toying about with the renditions. Bon Iver’s 'Flume' sounds completely different and new, being light years away from its folk tinged original. Meanwhile Elbow’s 'Mirrorball' has several gorgeous new layers applied to it, much like all of the material here. It’s sombre and grave yet still beautifully welcoming.

Taken for what it is, Scratch My Back is a wondrous trek for the ears, providing for a relaxing listen. It’s Peter Gabriel – a veteran, no hold on, a legend, having fun (perhaps?) but also not fearing to do something like this, as every cover here has had a fresh and brave new life breathed into it.

8/10