Peter Gabriel - This Is The Road (Courage - 1984)

"This Is The Road" was written by Peter over some years, literally from the road while on tour. This is why the lyric takes on a bittersweet emotional context since Peter is writing about his family and life and the effects that being away from loved ones for long periods of time is difficult.

As Peter Gabriel noted himself in the 1992 interview promo-CD, "All About Us," he can be working on songs for many years before he feels they are "finished and ready for an album." For instance, one of the tracks on this collection, "Quiet Steam," was first worked on by Peter in 1983 shortly after his fourth album 'Security.' However, it did not make it's official debut until 1992's "Us" album, where PG introduced us to "Steam."

After the release of 'Security' in 1982, Peter was working on many new songs with the goal of a fifth album for Charisma Records. Alas, Charisma had financial issues that forced the label to close - yet leaving Peter a 'free agent' again.

This compilation is that theoretical fifth album for Peter Gabriel, including the songs that he was working on the early 1980s for inclusion on an LP. We get the very rare studio demo version of "I Go Swimming," as well as two songs that Peter contributed to popular movies of the time. "Out Out," produced by the legendary Nile Rodgers, was included in Joe Dante's "Gremlins." And, "Walk Through the Fire" was a highlight in "Against All Odds" with Jeff Bridges. There is a bonus version of "Shaking The Tree" fondly known as the 'video version,' which is much more minimal and groove oriented. Plus, many more rarely heard songs from PG that have special places in the hearts of the "Gabriel's Angels."