Peter Gabriel - Peter Gabriel 4 (LP) - VG+/VG+

Peter Gabriel's fourth solo album, commonly referred to as "Peter Gabriel 4" or "Security" in the United States, marks a significant point in the artist's career, showcasing his innovative approach to music production and his deepening interest in world music influences. Released in 1982, this album is a testament to Gabriel's willingness to experiment with new sounds and technologies, which would later become a hallmark of his work.

One of the most notable aspects of "Peter Gabriel 4" is its pioneering use of digital sampling technology. Gabriel was one of the first artists to utilize the Fairlight CMI, an early digital sampler, which allowed him to incorporate a wide array of sounds into his music. This technological innovation is evident throughout the album, contributing to its rich and textured soundscapes. The album's production, handled by Gabriel himself along with David Lord, is meticulous and layered, creating an immersive listening experience.

The album opens with "The Rhythm of the Heat," a track inspired by Carl Jung's experience with African drumming. This song sets the tone for the album with its intense percussion and atmospheric build-up, reflecting Gabriel's interest in non-Western musical traditions. "San Jacinto" follows, a haunting piece that explores themes of cultural dislocation and survival, drawing on Native American imagery and Gabriel's own experiences.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Shock the Monkey," which became a commercial success and is often considered one of Gabriel's signature songs. The track's catchy rhythm and innovative use of electronic sounds helped it reach the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The accompanying music video, which features surreal and symbolic imagery, received heavy rotation on MTV, further cementing Gabriel's reputation as a pioneer in the visual aspects of music promotion.

"I Have the Touch" and "Wallflower" are other highlights of the album. "I Have the Touch" is an energetic track that explores themes of human connection and sensory experience, while "Wallflower" is a poignant ballad addressing the plight of political prisoners in Latin America. The latter showcases Gabriel's commitment to social and political issues, a theme that would continue to be prominent in his later work.

Critically, "Peter Gabriel 4" was well-received, with many reviewers praising its adventurous spirit and the depth of its musical exploration. The album's fusion of rock, electronic, and world music elements was seen as groundbreaking at the time, and it has since been recognized as a significant influence on the development of worldbeat and other genres. Gabriel's ability to blend diverse musical styles while maintaining a cohesive artistic vision is one of the album's most impressive achievements.

In terms of cultural significance, "Peter Gabriel 4" represents a moment when Western pop music began to seriously engage with global sounds, paving the way for future artists to explore similar cross-cultural collaborations. Gabriel's work on this album also laid the groundwork for his later involvement with the WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) festival, which he co-founded in 1982 to promote world music and cultural exchange.

While "Peter Gabriel 4" did not win any major awards at the time of its release, its impact on the music industry and its enduring influence on artists across genres cannot be overstated. The album remains a critical favorite and is often cited in discussions about the evolution of music in the 1980s.

Overall, "Peter Gabriel 4" is a landmark album that showcases Peter Gabriel's artistic vision and his ability to push the boundaries of popular music. Its innovative use of technology, combined with its exploration of global musical traditions, makes it a timeless work that continues to resonate with listeners today.