Peter Gabriel Releases New Track “Love Can Heal”
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Peter Gabriel has unveiled his latest track, “Love Can Heal.” This is the newest single from his impending album, i/o, marking Gabriel’s first collection of original compositions in over two decades. The exact release date of the album remains undisclosed.
Regarding the song, Gabriel expressed, “’Love Can Heal’ originated around 2016. During the tour, I began performing it, dedicating it to Jo Cox, the British MP tragically murdered by an extremist, whom I had the privilege of meeting at a leadership summit. I feel this track resonates with the album’s essence. i/o revolves around the idea of connection and belonging, and in many ways, the progression of this sentiment is an overarching love.”
For every single off the album, Gabriel collaborates with unique artists for the cover art. Antony Micallef’s piece, “a small portrayal of my interpretation of love,” graces the cover for “Love Can Heal.”
Gabriel remarked, “Antony Micallef is a masterful painter. I’ve encountered his portraits, characterized by their rich layers, reminiscent of Auerbach and Bacon’s works. They are potent, some even stark, but this piece emanates a softness. I think Antony has beautifully captured that intimate, elusive tenderness of love in this artwork. His enthusiasm to participate was heartening.”
Micallef shared, “Listening to some tracks felt akin to trying on outfits – some resonate, some don’t. With ‘Love Can Heal,’ my visuals vividly came to mind. It’s always refreshing to see artists who push boundaries, and Peter has consistently evolved. I strive for the same dynamism in my craft.”
Aardman Animation (known for Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep) teamed up with Micallef for the track’s visual representation. Reflecting on the experience, Micallef stated, “Collaborating with Aardman was surreal. I’m fascinated by processes, especially across different mediums. Their intricate methods were captivating.”
Gabriel has a history of partnership with Aardman Animation, dating back to his iconic “Sledgehammer” music video.
Gabriel elaborated, “I’ve had extensive engagements with Aardman Animation previously. Antony is an admirer of their work. When we approached them, we were unsure of their interest. However, their outcome was exquisite. It was straightforward yet poignant, and I’m thoroughly impressed.”
Earlier, Gabriel introduced the album’s debut single, “Panopticom,” in collaboration with Brian Eno. Following that, he released “The Court,” “Playing For Time,” the title track “i/o,” “Four Kinds of Horses,” “Road to Joy,” “So Much,” and “Olive Tree.”
Gabriel’s last original album was 2002’s “Up.” In 2010, he presented the cover album “Scratch My Back,” and in 2011, “New Blood” showcased orchestral versions of select tracks from Gabriel’s discography. His most recent major tour was the 2014’s “Back to Front Tour,” commemorating his iconic 1986 album, “So.”
The upcoming tour will feature performances alongside Gabriel’s regular ensemble, comprising Tony Levin, David Rhodes, and Manu Katché. The setlist will span tracks from i/o and other highlights from his repertoire.
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