Peter Gabriel: Growing Up Live

The concert, 'Peter Gabriel: Growing Up Live,' captures the essence of Peter Gabriel's 2003 tour, centered around his album 'Up.' The show, staged in Milan, is an exhilarating experience that combines innovative stage design with the unique musical talents of Gabriel's ensemble. As the curtains part, the audience is immersed in a cinematic spectacle that sets the tone for a night filled with surprises. The stage itself is a marvel of modern technology, with a revolving design that seems to defy the conventions of a traditional concert setting. Throughout the evening, this innovative setup is showcased in various guises, each one adding a new dimension to the performance. The song "Solsbury Hill," a fan favorite, takes precedence as Gabriel steps off the stage and onto a bicycle, effortlessly navigating the perimeter of the stage. With a wide grin on his face, he pedals in a joyful rhythm, accompanied by the sound of the music and the applause of the crowd. The setlist for the concert showcases Gabriel's knack for blending the familiar with the new. He seamlessly weaves together songs from his latest album, 'Up,' alongside his earlier hits. The abrasive tones of "Darkness" contrast sharply with the atmospheric introspection of "The Barry Williams Show," while the audience's enthusiasm for established tracks like "Red Rain," "In Your Eyes," and "Sledgehammer" remains unwavering. One of the evening's highlights is the performance of "Sky Blue," a song that features a memorable collaboration with the esteemed Blind Boys of Alabama. The group's soulful vocals imbue the song with a depth and emotion that transcends the boundaries of musical genres. This poignant moment in the concert serves as a poignant reminder of the universal language that music shares with all of us, regardless of cultural background or personal differences. Gabriel's musical partnership with his sidemen David Rhodes (guitar) and Tony Levin (bass) is an integral aspect of the show. Their musical chemistry is undeniable, with each musician feeding off the others to create an organic and engaging sound. Rhodes' guitar work is particularly noteworthy, his deft fingers moving effortlessly across the fretboard to create intricate passages that add texture to the songs. Another memorable moment in the concert is the rendition of "Downside Up," which features a striking performance by Gabriel and his daughter, Melanie. As the song builds towards a climactic finale, Gabriel embarks on a gravity-defying "sky walk," gliding effortlessly above the stage. The combination of Melanie's presence and Gabriel's daredevil antics elevates the performance to an unforgettable height. Gabriel's use of visual elements is another hallmark of the concert, with a range of stunning visuals that accompany each song. The stage's revolving design is perfectly complemented by a state-of-the-art lighting system, which adds a kaleidoscopic effect to the performance. The audience is treated to a constantly changing backdrop, with colors and patterns evolving with each song. The result is an immersive experience that engages all of the audience's senses. Throughout the evening, Gabriel is clearly inspired by the music and the energy of the crowd. His stage presence is infectious, with a sense of joy and camaraderie that permeates every aspect of the performance. Whether he is singing, dancing, or even pedaling around the stage on his bicycle, Gabriel is a consummate performer who seems to be living every moment of the show. The concert itself lasts for over two hours, a testament to Gabriel's boundless energy and creativity. As the evening draws to a close, the audience is left with a sense of satisfaction and wonder, eager to experience the magic of Gabriel's "Growing Up Live" tour once again. The show is an unapologetic celebration of music, art, and performance, with Gabriel's passion and dedication shining through at every moment.