If you’re going to reinterpret something, then really do something. Nail your colours to the mast and say, ‘This is different, and it isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. ”
This is lovely - so intense. As someone quite familiar with the original version, I feel that this comes closer to conveying the bleakness, the hopelessness of the lyrics. This is a terrifying song, and those who believe otherwise are not paying attention.
Having listened to Peter Gabriel's musical ideas painfully run out and die over the last 20 years, he is now audibly decomposing in other peoples songs
I can't believe people say this is a bad cover. This is a BEAUTIFUL cover. If you dislike this version you are really close-minded. If you dislike this you don't trully understand Radiohead's song.
OK, if this were watched in the context of a movie soundtrack then it would be frighteningly good. It is a difficult pill to swallow when comparing it against the original. But it is heartfelt & has power. Tricky to take - Gabriel is my favourite snger - Radiohead my faouvite band....torn between two worlds here. Personally I think that Radiohead would love it, they ahve always been way out there - further than this. Just listen to all of Kid A, or Punchup at a wedding....
I love this version.....the original is brillant of course...but there's something darker here, more apocalyptic.....like the maniac anxieties in the original have finally come to bear fruit.
I have always loved music that divides opinion and I love this! I also know that I'll have something in common with those who also like it. This is not music designed to 'please' the masses. Give it several plays and it will work it's magic. I must admit as a long term fan that when I first heard it I didn't like it, now it's one of my favorites on the record. Genius.
Gabriel really takes this song and makes it into an avant-garde tour-de-force in mood. He really outlines the atmosphere he wants to convey. And he does it well with the dissonance of the ascending piano notes and the actual melody. Whoever thinks he's out of tune...cough cough comment before this one...doesn't really get what dissonance is or why it is. Great cover
It's funny how people see this as disrespect towards the originals. I can garuntee you that Radiohead and anyother artists Peter "covered" on this album are completely honored that Peter Gabriel woud do something like this. I'm suprised how you could hate Peter Gabriel after all he's done for music and the roads he helped carve for today's artists.
Covers should NOT sound like the original. That shows a lack of creativity in an artist, in my opinion. Why would you want a repackaged song?
@BigTymerPimp I think Thom Yorke was asked about his thoughts on this cover by Peter Gabriel and I believe he didn't want to comment. If it is true, I think that says it all. (It's been a long time since I heard that so I can't confirm if it's true or not).
Personally I think this is a bad cover anyway you look at it. The rest on the album aren't particularly special either but in the context and feel of his album they do work together reasonably well.
I don't think it was bad. I still hear an element in this cover that is totally theatrical. I believe that was the intent for this cover. Not simplifying the song or making it complex. It's putting an element in this song that wasn't there. I agree that the original works as a listening tune, but this version (in my opinion) works for a theatrical setting like a 60's style black and white movie or a live production. I agree with this not being a listening tune, but not that it's bad.
@turtleboy84 Regardless, of Radiohead's opinion. I still feel Peter is a champ for going outside of the box rather than doing some lame acoustic guitar cover or something. My thoughts on cover songs in general still stands.
I'm sure they were delighted at first, otherwise they wouldn't have given him the right to cover it. Peter just pulled a complete 180 on them and gave the song the feeling it envokes. I love it's surreal, dark, and haunting sound.
People critic this alot... Why? Sure its not as great as radiohead, but its very diffrent. In both song we explore darkness, diffrent kind of darkness. This song is very unique and audacious. (yes, even tho if its a cover) People should b happy that artists like pg choose paths that never been walked b4 and experiment shit, even tho it might not alway be "easy listening" ... 0therwisly said, go watch britney spears if u want a good old working recipe
@looney1233 Very true, but this cover is faaar from being "dark". Slowness and simple arrangement do not equal dark. I respect PG's audacity in other albums but this is not innovative at all. I think redoing a song by simplyfying the instrumental and making the vocals stand out is the laziest way to cover a song. Sometimes it works (like Imogen Heap's version of Hallelujah) but in general I see it as taking the easy way.
@looney1233 different. A car full of horseshit, on fire , coming the wrong way down a one way freeway . Might have me go "well look at that flaming car of shit driving itself, thats different".
Doesn't mean its a good thing. Sweet Jesus on a cross this could be the worst cover I have ever heard and i had a nightmare once where Morrissey crooned his way through purple haze..
Umm, I'm not sure about this. His voice sounds hoarse at some points (the "Faaading out" feels a bit painful) and it has too much sing-speak for my taste. He's a talented pianist, I don't deny that, but this just leaves me cold. I don't -hate- this cover, I just find it completely disposable.
PG was my fav long ago, but he's squandered his talent. Failed to recognize that a common trait among great artists is being prolific. I think Peter was so afraid he couldn't top So and Passion that he froze, when he should've kept truckin. Should've focused on simply making good music consistently rather than trying to outdo previous innovations...then failing (e.g., Us). So his talent dulled, and here we are.
Radiohead must of really insulted Peter for him to do this to one of their songs, its f'cking painful when he hits the 'rain out agaiiiiin' segment. Thom and co should get their own back and do one of his songs as badly.....
The rule of covering songs. If the song is perect LEAVE IT ALONE. This is horrible. And the worst thing is it's sooo slow and empty that you have to endure 5 minutes of the shite.
it's very different, and it definitely gets better as it goes along. i'd definitely think it was really bad if i didn't know the original. it doesn't start out that well, but with the addition of the orchestra, it is much more interesting and whole.
This song was a big risk for Peter to take, as the original was done perfect, and I wouldn't want it changed in any way. I am not sure what to think of this one. The rest of the album is actually quite good after a couple of listens, it grew on me.
I think this one is growing on me. We'll see. Definitely better songs on the album.
I love Gabriel and have done for many years right from the start of Genesis and won't normally hear a word said against him but i really don't like this at all,he can do dark and haunting really well but i think this is a bit too far
it reminds me of portishead or later Massive attack. I love both those groups. But this cover is just plain awful. Really nice strings. but his voice is shank.
I've always maintained that if one is to cover a song then it should be different to make it their own. Peter Gabriel certainly does that and not without losing the sense of emotional decay. The ambience created maybe more saddening than the original. It's not as good as Radiohead's (but what cover is!) but a great song nonetheless
I don't know how well the 'non-singing' parts work for this cover... strange as it sounds, Radiohead know how to walk the thin line between melodrama and sincerity... this cover sort of gets at the heart of the song, but just feels plain lazy at parts.
it's hard to believe it is so bad... i surely hope that he made this on purpose as a joke or as a funny cover to make fun on the "depressive" radiohead cliché from the 90's... no ?
I love the original because it comes out of nowhere tonally in The Bends-a sly wink towards the future ala Computer. This cover works for me because Gabriel made it his own without being flashy almost in defiance of the original, and it lingers in the mind long after it's over, always a yardstick for a good song.
I don't know what you all are talking about, I think this is genius. The entire point of the song is hopelessness and despair, and it comes off perfectly. In many ways it hits the mark better then the original (though the original is better.) I think Pete did a fantastic job with it, and I can't wait to see Yorke and the boys cover Wallflower.
I don't know what to say...I mean...Peter Gabriels a legend and here he is trying to cover a song from my favorite band of all time. It's not so much a cover as it is a remake but I'm just not liking the direction he took it in I suppose. There were some parts of it that I liked with the direction he took with the piano but all in all...I'll probably never listen to this again.
Seems like Peter was on his valium when he made this...lol
I get the intent of this cover...it has it's good moments...but overall it just feels rushed to me. I think he was trying to give us an "in the moment" rendition of the song.
man someone told me to listen to this guy Tom York and here he is and I hear him sound like an old scared man. What is this?? i thought the Radio Head were meant to be good ??? This is like a scary whisper story
No no no....this isn't radiohead! dont let this ruin it. I'm posting radiohead videos on your profile. And I would recommend the albums: In Rainbows, OK Computer, Amnesiac, Hail to the Thief, and Kid A, in that order.
We understand that Thom Yorke and Radiohead originally wrote this song, but this is a COVER by Peter Gabriel as it is clearly stated in the title of this post. PETER GABRIEL COVERS STREET SPIRIT (FADE OUT).
Look up his song "The Drop" from 2002. This version of "Street Spirit" is an expanded version of this concept... purposely alienating and off-key in a Dali-meets-Warhol kinda way. It takes a few listens to sink in, even if it doesn't work quite as well as "The Drop." I do give Peter props for taking a chance, though.
i hated this at first, but after listening a few times ive really come to like it. it's really different and interesting. and fits the whole hopeless mood perfectly. i suggest that everyone gives it at least a couple chances.
i give credit where due. I despise this song. BUT i think he found a way to reflect into the song reach in pull out the emotions it was meant to inspire hopelessness and make it his own. I hope he never does this again! EVER It sounds like something Tim Burton would put into a cartoon. Oh Man this is BAD!
It's wonderful. Gabriel got what seems impossible: make better a Radiohead song.
I love Radiohead and I have a great respect by Peter Gabriel. He is always searching something new and each album is different. I don't appreciate everything that he produces but I paid attention, ever. And for this song, he was very happy.
This cover is out of tune as much as Picasso faild on drawing body shapes correctly.
You don't have to like this cover but honestly there is no reason for complete refusal just because it's strange and nothing you're familiar with.
If you want to lead the attention of anybody to a situation, they are not aware of, you can get them there by distract them from the path they used to follow. That's what Gabriel do, just kick things out of position.
its a weak album IMHO. Taking the same approach to each song, and the incredible laziness and arrogance in thinking that your own gloom and indecision adds a layer of sensitivity and meaning to a song, when quite often all it does is shows how lazy and introspective Peter has become. He is surrounded by acolytes and fawners, but no genius or innovator is here heard.
Peter, Success has made you rich, and driven you into sentimentality which imitates integrity. Look back and weep.
I loved the whole album from the start, except for this. Maybe it'll grow on me. I mean, he wouldn't have put it at the end of the album if at least HE didn't think it was good.
I actually quite liked this, it's very raw, but I don't view that as bad. This is him making the song his own, it is obviously not going to be comparable to Radiohead and other than him not writing the song, we shouldn't be judging it with the original in mind. That said however, I probably only like this because it's a different version of a Radiohead song, if there wasn't the association, it's unlikely I'd have given this the time of day.
this isnt exactly the hight point of his new album, but you have to give him credit for changing it an not just doing a cover thats "heres the same song with a different lead vocalist". I love Peter Gabriel and have never really liked Radiohead, but I do think this doesnt live up to the original
Although i prefer Radioheads version i respect this a lot. I always hate it when people do cover versions that sound exactly like the original, what's the point in that? I also think it actually sounds quite close to what i would imagine Radiohead to do with the song had they written it now and not back at the beginning of their career.
@beccaharleyquin as if it'd sound anything like this what sort of stupid comment is that - he cant even sing the notes properly without his shit throat caving in, not to mention how the songs just completely abysmal anyway
I actually think it was quiet a valid and apt comment. If you compare early Radiohead to their later stuff they became notably more abstract and experimental with a more deconstructed sound.
Gabriels take on this song isn't one that relies on note for note authenticity from the original, he's looking for more than just a carbon copy and his vocals (or anti-vocals if you like) are an interesting statement if nothing else. Watch a live performance of Gabriels, he is actually an awsome vocalist.
Although it's a very unique interpertation I prefer the originall version that carried me away on the wings of the gituars of radihead. and If I have to choose what version made me thrilled is defenetly the original one. and another thing peter gabriel doesn't need to do cover versions I can't wait for his next original album.
does peter himself like it? if he does, i'm impressed. this is just not done right. seems like a rough draft version. and the singing out of tune... is that on purpose? is it there to add style? it's wierd.
maybe as a completly different and seperate song it could work. but as street spirit!?!?!? EW no. it's out of tune and the arpeggiated am chord is what makes it street spirit. even as a different song by itself it would still need allot of work. Singing if out of key too, horrible! so much wrong with this song.. FAIL
Listening to this reminds me of how great Phil Collins's cover versions are. Give it up, Peter, stop trying to sound so weird and concentrate on the tune.
I love that 'version'... but for me, it's not a cover! It can be described as a 'free reinterpretation'. Gabriel knew that the original is unreachable, and that he couldn't challenge Thom Yorke on it's own terrain, so he made it differently... I find it wise.
Too many people expect cover versions should just be a direct copy of the original and are outraged if they aren't. If this is how you think, don't listen to cover versions, you clearly don't understand them.
Oh, and listen to this album on some quality audio equipment, not on YouTube or an iPod shuffle!
Are some of those vocals sour or what? I'd jokingly say they used Auto-Detune on this one. I like it so far, however, some of those vocals are just.. really out of tune.
I didn't like it at first but now I really love it!
This version brings new life to a song that I got tired of.
When someone like Peter Gabriel is doing a "cover", it is obvious that he makes his very own thing out of it. Like "A Perfect Circle" did on their "eMOTIVe"-Album. I mean this is true art: Taking someone's idea and making something new and special out of it.
Sorry not for me.
fredintheshed1 2 weeks ago
If you’re going to reinterpret something, then really do something. Nail your colours to the mast and say, ‘This is different, and it isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. ”
—Peter Gabriel, on Scratch My Back
metube80 3 months ago
This is lovely - so intense. As someone quite familiar with the original version, I feel that this comes closer to conveying the bleakness, the hopelessness of the lyrics. This is a terrifying song, and those who believe otherwise are not paying attention.
2001aspaceoddity 3 months ago
I got to the whispering at 3:12 but that killed me. How about you?
Sandyhendry 3 months ago
hello!
well done:)
check out my version too...thx
-Anja-
AnjaWolfMusic 6 months ago
give him a chance, this is a cool version... full of loneliness, dead and agony u.u
DirtyDayMix 6 months ago
Having listened to Peter Gabriel's musical ideas painfully run out and die over the last 20 years, he is now audibly decomposing in other peoples songs
TheDaddyO44 7 months ago 2
this is like "2 girls 1 cup" but for music fans, its a feat to make it through..there is no god.
The original asks the question where is a loving god. this song sadly confirms the lack of said God's existance
billyvassi 7 months ago
wow this sucks. ..like a solid nine out of ten . Keeping in mind anything Michael Bay touches is an eight.
I love Peter and Radiohead but wow. Wheres your musical instinct here. This is the elevator music to hell.
Thanks for ear fucking me in the middle of the night Mr Gabriel.....fuck i thought it couldnt get any worse but it actually does
billyvassi 7 months ago
I can't believe people say this is a bad cover. This is a BEAUTIFUL cover. If you dislike this version you are really close-minded. If you dislike this you don't trully understand Radiohead's song.
ShazerThe 7 months ago
punchup at a wedding is amazing
PeterZeeke 7 months ago
this is actually quite good!
PeterZeeke 7 months ago
Looks like dennis hopper
jason75 7 months ago
OK, if this were watched in the context of a movie soundtrack then it would be frighteningly good. It is a difficult pill to swallow when comparing it against the original. But it is heartfelt & has power. Tricky to take - Gabriel is my favourite snger - Radiohead my faouvite band....torn between two worlds here. Personally I think that Radiohead would love it, they ahve always been way out there - further than this. Just listen to all of Kid A, or Punchup at a wedding....
dowdalli 10 months ago
@dowdalli "Punchup At A Wedding" is garbage, though.
UHandsomeDevil 9 months ago
What was the point? It adds nothing for PG's musical career and nothing to the original Radiohead song.
babooshkalika 10 months ago
jeez, and I thought Radioheads version was depressing.
Kevtb87 10 months ago
@Kevtb87 That made me chuckle.
madelinenoire 8 months ago
WTF!? He destroyed every pieces of the song, he should continue make his own music rather than doing bad covers
TheDarktael 10 months ago
I love this version.....the original is brillant of course...but there's something darker here, more apocalyptic.....like the maniac anxieties in the original have finally come to bear fruit.
quidseeker 10 months ago
I have always loved music that divides opinion and I love this! I also know that I'll have something in common with those who also like it. This is not music designed to 'please' the masses. Give it several plays and it will work it's magic. I must admit as a long term fan that when I first heard it I didn't like it, now it's one of my favorites on the record. Genius.
darrenlad 11 months ago
Petes great But it is reminiscent of Radiohead; hubpages(dot)com/hub/Lovely-Alternatives
DaveysRecipeRead 11 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
this nigga had no business ruining such a great song
coryu711 11 months ago
@coryu711 Peter Gabriel has more talent in one of his finger nail clippings than you have in your entire genome.
quidseeker 10 months ago
Gabriel really takes this song and makes it into an avant-garde tour-de-force in mood. He really outlines the atmosphere he wants to convey. And he does it well with the dissonance of the ascending piano notes and the actual melody. Whoever thinks he's out of tune...cough cough comment before this one...doesn't really get what dissonance is or why it is. Great cover
gojedason123 11 months ago
Does anyone actually heard this?
This guy is a legend. But FUCK! he's totally out of tune. If I were Yorke I'll be dead, or killing myself right now.
RocketMirCor 11 months ago
@RocketMirCor - he's not out of tune.
McKieOfficial 10 months ago
You have to be in a really sad mood to enjoy this album. Almost suicidal D:
OctoDunn 1 year ago
sos un hijo de puta no podes arruinar un tema de esta manera
GabbiRokr 1 year ago
It's funny how people see this as disrespect towards the originals. I can garuntee you that Radiohead and anyother artists Peter "covered" on this album are completely honored that Peter Gabriel woud do something like this. I'm suprised how you could hate Peter Gabriel after all he's done for music and the roads he helped carve for today's artists.
Covers should NOT sound like the original. That shows a lack of creativity in an artist, in my opinion. Why would you want a repackaged song?
BigTymerPimp 1 year ago 2
@BigTymerPimp I think Thom Yorke was asked about his thoughts on this cover by Peter Gabriel and I believe he didn't want to comment. If it is true, I think that says it all. (It's been a long time since I heard that so I can't confirm if it's true or not).
Personally I think this is a bad cover anyway you look at it. The rest on the album aren't particularly special either but in the context and feel of his album they do work together reasonably well.
kevkwak 1 year ago
@kevkwak
I don't think it was bad. I still hear an element in this cover that is totally theatrical. I believe that was the intent for this cover. Not simplifying the song or making it complex. It's putting an element in this song that wasn't there. I agree that the original works as a listening tune, but this version (in my opinion) works for a theatrical setting like a 60's style black and white movie or a live production. I agree with this not being a listening tune, but not that it's bad.
BigTymerPimp 1 year ago
@BigTymerPimp
vv vv vv(dot)guardian(dot)co(dot)uk/music/2010/jun/02/peter-gabriel-scratch-my-back
Read this, Radiohead is not that pleased.
turtleboy84 11 months ago
@turtleboy84 Regardless, of Radiohead's opinion. I still feel Peter is a champ for going outside of the box rather than doing some lame acoustic guitar cover or something. My thoughts on cover songs in general still stands.
I'm sure they were delighted at first, otherwise they wouldn't have given him the right to cover it. Peter just pulled a complete 180 on them and gave the song the feeling it envokes. I love it's surreal, dark, and haunting sound.
BigTymerPimp 11 months ago
People critic this alot... Why? Sure its not as great as radiohead, but its very diffrent. In both song we explore darkness, diffrent kind of darkness. This song is very unique and audacious. (yes, even tho if its a cover) People should b happy that artists like pg choose paths that never been walked b4 and experiment shit, even tho it might not alway be "easy listening" ... 0therwisly said, go watch britney spears if u want a good old working recipe
looney1233 1 year ago
@looney1233 Very true, but this cover is faaar from being "dark". Slowness and simple arrangement do not equal dark. I respect PG's audacity in other albums but this is not innovative at all. I think redoing a song by simplyfying the instrumental and making the vocals stand out is the laziest way to cover a song. Sometimes it works (like Imogen Heap's version of Hallelujah) but in general I see it as taking the easy way.
LightsOfBohemia 1 year ago
@looney1233 different. A car full of horseshit, on fire , coming the wrong way down a one way freeway . Might have me go "well look at that flaming car of shit driving itself, thats different".
Doesn't mean its a good thing. Sweet Jesus on a cross this could be the worst cover I have ever heard and i had a nightmare once where Morrissey crooned his way through purple haze..
billyvassi 7 months ago 2
Comment removed
looney1233 1 year ago
I almost hurled when his voice dropped. Please make it stop.
wackedoutgurl 1 year ago
Umm, I'm not sure about this. His voice sounds hoarse at some points (the "Faaading out" feels a bit painful) and it has too much sing-speak for my taste. He's a talented pianist, I don't deny that, but this just leaves me cold. I don't -hate- this cover, I just find it completely disposable.
LightsOfBohemia 1 year ago
Both this song and the arcade fire cover sucks. Nowhere near the originals.
weaut 1 year ago
@weaut That's not the point of a cover, especially if you're a musician like Peter Gabriel.
BigTymerPimp 1 year ago
PG was my fav long ago, but he's squandered his talent. Failed to recognize that a common trait among great artists is being prolific. I think Peter was so afraid he couldn't top So and Passion that he froze, when he should've kept truckin. Should've focused on simply making good music consistently rather than trying to outdo previous innovations...then failing (e.g., Us). So his talent dulled, and here we are.
Lashrito 1 year ago
ha i love how everyone hates this...funny
UntilItsAllMine 1 year ago
Radiohead must of really insulted Peter for him to do this to one of their songs, its f'cking painful when he hits the 'rain out agaiiiiin' segment. Thom and co should get their own back and do one of his songs as badly.....
theNomadz 1 year ago
@theNomadz I don't think they could...
bengold0 1 year ago
as much as i like peter gabriel, this doesn't even compare to thom yorke's/ radioheads original
rigster35 1 year ago
shit, gabriel has become a chickenhead in the Dick tradition
seanb74 1 year ago
shit
seanb74 1 year ago
this is the theme song of hell. so haunting.
seapockets 1 year ago
boring
gogolplex74 1 year ago
The rule of covering songs. If the song is perect LEAVE IT ALONE. This is horrible. And the worst thing is it's sooo slow and empty that you have to endure 5 minutes of the shite.
philipmcjim 1 year ago
He is the Master.
Not only of Genesis !
I love his new Album and Yesterday i watched him live with the orchestra...man that was awesome.
He is simply a musical Genius.
He is the one and only Peter Gabriel !
TheJesMagic 1 year ago
Yup, this is a grower.
WilliamVonEagle 1 year ago
this is disgusting
michael4792 1 year ago
This is bad. Shatner bad.
XxAussieFuryxX 1 year ago
i saw this live and it was super
XxXphobos 1 year ago
its obvious phil collins w3as the real talent in genesis
l0gan316 1 year ago
I love it, Fadeout
frostyboo2 1 year ago
Please someone take the mic away from this man... he's just awful.
BrianGriffin83 1 year ago
Boring
SWF90 1 year ago
PG covering Radiohead?!!! Dope as hell. Give it a chance and it will grow on you like moss.
jcowell1977 1 year ago
it's very different, and it definitely gets better as it goes along. i'd definitely think it was really bad if i didn't know the original. it doesn't start out that well, but with the addition of the orchestra, it is much more interesting and whole.
kaerftra 1 year ago
Sometimes, just sometimes i wish ageing rockstars would just call it a day!
Terrible version of a great song.
Pete....your time is up!
superchan1903 1 year ago
WOW AMAZING!!!
JoseBerry 1 year ago
this is actually awesome
OCIRELCNU 1 year ago
This song was a big risk for Peter to take, as the original was done perfect, and I wouldn't want it changed in any way. I am not sure what to think of this one. The rest of the album is actually quite good after a couple of listens, it grew on me.
I think this one is growing on me. We'll see. Definitely better songs on the album.
SugarySnack 1 year ago
I'd love it if Radiohead's wouldn't played this song first...
ronyorellana226 1 year ago
Comment removed
jupi90 1 year ago
I love Gabriel and have done for many years right from the start of Genesis and won't normally hear a word said against him but i really don't like this at all,he can do dark and haunting really well but i think this is a bit too far
MrBobbins666 1 year ago
not a fan, was expecting much better
blehblehblehblehbleh 1 year ago
This is...not good.
PhattyMo 1 year ago
Sorry Pete, yer painting mustache on the Mona Lisa here. Should have left this song alone, it was done right the first time.
metaball 1 year ago
I honestly thing this is really cool.
Definitely gives a different take on the song.
The strings are beautiful, slightly haunting like the later Radiohead stuff.
guitarzankr 1 year ago
Wow! A real 5min disaster!
And yes, I even tried to listen to it more then once!
Call me old, but it was to experimental for me... With a horrific ending!
Btw: I'm no Radiohead fanboy and I really like Peter Gabriel (except for this monster)
bashandje 1 year ago
@bashandje Don't try to like it. Try to understand this song
This is voluntarily horrific.
lyude3513 1 year ago
it's dark and I would have enjoyed it while I was going through an extremely dark time in my life but, no...depressing!
articblonde36 1 year ago
to be fair, its impossible to make a better version of this song. the original was beautiful. i think Gabriel was being brave when he took this on.
tommoking7 1 year ago 2
aaaaaaaaaaaaargh WTF ! my god this is so bad... so bad. oh god....
supersoske 1 year ago
it reminds me of portishead or later Massive attack. I love both those groups. But this cover is just plain awful. Really nice strings. but his voice is shank.
Jupp888 1 year ago
I've always maintained that if one is to cover a song then it should be different to make it their own. Peter Gabriel certainly does that and not without losing the sense of emotional decay. The ambience created maybe more saddening than the original. It's not as good as Radiohead's (but what cover is!) but a great song nonetheless
scottyj141 1 year ago
I don't know how well the 'non-singing' parts work for this cover... strange as it sounds, Radiohead know how to walk the thin line between melodrama and sincerity... this cover sort of gets at the heart of the song, but just feels plain lazy at parts.
TheGreatGallbo 1 year ago
this is one of that songs that makes you question: is it a good one or just shit? And the answer is: ??? I think thom yorke thought the same.
MrGarudes 1 year ago
it's hard to believe it is so bad... i surely hope that he made this on purpose as a joke or as a funny cover to make fun on the "depressive" radiohead cliché from the 90's... no ?
question : does he even sing good after 04:30 ?
pastix75 1 year ago
I love the original because it comes out of nowhere tonally in The Bends-a sly wink towards the future ala Computer. This cover works for me because Gabriel made it his own without being flashy almost in defiance of the original, and it lingers in the mind long after it's over, always a yardstick for a good song.
quidseeker 1 year ago
I don't know what you all are talking about, I think this is genius. The entire point of the song is hopelessness and despair, and it comes off perfectly. In many ways it hits the mark better then the original (though the original is better.) I think Pete did a fantastic job with it, and I can't wait to see Yorke and the boys cover Wallflower.
JohnyVirgil 2 years ago 5
@JohnyVirgil don't get your hopes up. Thom ain't covering it because he thinks its shite.
NefariousBanana 11 months ago
It basically sounds like if Radiohead had written the song during the Amnesiac sessions instead of The Bends.
RigoKellerColas 2 years ago 4
I don't know what to say...I mean...Peter Gabriels a legend and here he is trying to cover a song from my favorite band of all time. It's not so much a cover as it is a remake but I'm just not liking the direction he took it in I suppose. There were some parts of it that I liked with the direction he took with the piano but all in all...I'll probably never listen to this again.
bones22j 2 years ago 2
Seems like Peter was on his valium when he made this...lol
I get the intent of this cover...it has it's good moments...but overall it just feels rushed to me. I think he was trying to give us an "in the moment" rendition of the song.
jwild611 2 years ago
This sounds like Gabriel tried too hard to be different of sorts. It just sounds fake and artificial to me...
NeverEverClever 2 years ago
man someone told me to listen to this guy Tom York and here he is and I hear him sound like an old scared man. What is this?? i thought the Radio Head were meant to be good ??? This is like a scary whisper story
Jazzboogaloo 2 years ago
I guess you got it all mixed up my friend :)
This is cover by Peter Gabriel, and...maybe he is old scared man, but...what a GENIUS old man!!!
annagrzegorczyk 2 years ago 2
No no no....this isn't radiohead! dont let this ruin it. I'm posting radiohead videos on your profile. And I would recommend the albums: In Rainbows, OK Computer, Amnesiac, Hail to the Thief, and Kid A, in that order.
jayfin4 2 years ago
Don't feed the trolls.
RigoKellerColas 2 years ago
I'd say amnesiac last... I think it's their strangest album. Hail to the thief is waaay more... accessible, i think. Oh well, they're both awesome :D
Osmodiwald 2 years ago
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dd371207 2 years ago
Jazzboogaloo, this isn't Thom Yorke you idiot. The youtube post says PETER GABRIEL
dd371207 2 years ago
no, Tom Yorke definitely wrote this song. Google it if you don't believe me
Jazzboogaloo 1 year ago
We understand that Thom Yorke and Radiohead originally wrote this song, but this is a COVER by Peter Gabriel as it is clearly stated in the title of this post. PETER GABRIEL COVERS STREET SPIRIT (FADE OUT).
dd371207 1 year ago
Look up his song "The Drop" from 2002. This version of "Street Spirit" is an expanded version of this concept... purposely alienating and off-key in a Dali-meets-Warhol kinda way. It takes a few listens to sink in, even if it doesn't work quite as well as "The Drop." I do give Peter props for taking a chance, though.
ufbro 2 years ago
i hated this at first, but after listening a few times ive really come to like it. it's really different and interesting. and fits the whole hopeless mood perfectly. i suggest that everyone gives it at least a couple chances.
froggo787 2 years ago 21
You don't give him a chance! Just listen...more then once...you'll like it! You'll love it!
annagrzegorczyk 2 years ago 23
still no....
Jazzboogaloo 2 years ago
i give credit where due. I despise this song. BUT i think he found a way to reflect into the song reach in pull out the emotions it was meant to inspire hopelessness and make it his own. I hope he never does this again! EVER It sounds like something Tim Burton would put into a cartoon. Oh Man this is BAD!
goreancouple 2 years ago
It's wonderful. Gabriel got what seems impossible: make better a Radiohead song.
I love Radiohead and I have a great respect by Peter Gabriel. He is always searching something new and each album is different. I don't appreciate everything that he produces but I paid attention, ever. And for this song, he was very happy.
drutrane 2 years ago
An example:
This cover is out of tune as much as Picasso faild on drawing body shapes correctly.
You don't have to like this cover but honestly there is no reason for complete refusal just because it's strange and nothing you're familiar with.
If you want to lead the attention of anybody to a situation, they are not aware of, you can get them there by distract them from the path they used to follow. That's what Gabriel do, just kick things out of position.
aqwaya 2 years ago 2
I'm going to go slit my wrists now.
Genessender 2 years ago
it sounds like a demo...a little disappointment...
drummertdi 2 years ago
quite horrible
thordod 2 years ago
This is horrific to be honest.
RooneyManUtd 2 years ago
makes you long for an elvis costello cover..
johnaiton 2 years ago
Man.. this is just kind of sad. Stay safe next time Peter, stay safe and listenable.
Frithyfrith 2 years ago
Just play some random notes and sing Radiohead lyrics in a random tempo on them, and that's it! You have your Radiohead cover. So easy!
BrianGriffin83 2 years ago
sorry peter, just doesnt do the same thing to me as the original
red13god 2 years ago 2
its a weak album IMHO. Taking the same approach to each song, and the incredible laziness and arrogance in thinking that your own gloom and indecision adds a layer of sensitivity and meaning to a song, when quite often all it does is shows how lazy and introspective Peter has become. He is surrounded by acolytes and fawners, but no genius or innovator is here heard.
Peter, Success has made you rich, and driven you into sentimentality which imitates integrity. Look back and weep.
ianwarburton 2 years ago
He doesn't take the same approach to each song, and he most certainly is not lazy or arrogant.
Keep your chickenshit opinions to yourselves, desbunkers.
degree7 2 years ago
That was f'ing awesome. :)
pflapseofreason 2 years ago
I like Peter Gabriel's version of this song. . .can't wait to hear the entire "Scratch My Back" performance live! : )
I admire any artist that steps outside of their "comfort zone". . .
Peter did an amazing interpretation of all songs that he covered on SMB, . .bravo Mr. Gabriel. . .well done! : )
makissoflife 2 years ago
this makes me sad. I love the original and I always was respectful for Peter Gabriel's work, but this just isn't good
capoo124 2 years ago
No wonder Thom Yorke hasn't said what he thinks of this yet.......be honest Thom and just say its shit....
noahwayne 2 years ago 2
@noahwayne
"Just cause you feel it doesnt mean its there"
TrulikasLT 2 years ago
I get what he is trying to do with this, but it isn't working really is it.
arizonabay6 2 years ago 2
I loved the whole album from the start, except for this. Maybe it'll grow on me. I mean, he wouldn't have put it at the end of the album if at least HE didn't think it was good.
RicePresident 2 years ago
I actually quite liked this, it's very raw, but I don't view that as bad. This is him making the song his own, it is obviously not going to be comparable to Radiohead and other than him not writing the song, we shouldn't be judging it with the original in mind. That said however, I probably only like this because it's a different version of a Radiohead song, if there wasn't the association, it's unlikely I'd have given this the time of day.
mattifer10 2 years ago 3
this isnt exactly the hight point of his new album, but you have to give him credit for changing it an not just doing a cover thats "heres the same song with a different lead vocalist". I love Peter Gabriel and have never really liked Radiohead, but I do think this doesnt live up to the original
jeevesthepunk 2 years ago
Lame. This is so lame.
Aloizza 2 years ago 2
lol
l0gan316 2 years ago
Although i prefer Radioheads version i respect this a lot. I always hate it when people do cover versions that sound exactly like the original, what's the point in that? I also think it actually sounds quite close to what i would imagine Radiohead to do with the song had they written it now and not back at the beginning of their career.
beccaharleyquin 2 years ago 4
@beccaharleyquin as if it'd sound anything like this what sort of stupid comment is that - he cant even sing the notes properly without his shit throat caving in, not to mention how the songs just completely abysmal anyway
agentbaine2 2 years ago
I actually think it was quiet a valid and apt comment. If you compare early Radiohead to their later stuff they became notably more abstract and experimental with a more deconstructed sound.
Gabriels take on this song isn't one that relies on note for note authenticity from the original, he's looking for more than just a carbon copy and his vocals (or anti-vocals if you like) are an interesting statement if nothing else. Watch a live performance of Gabriels, he is actually an awsome vocalist.
beccaharleyquin 2 years ago
This is just awful! What was he thinking?
csestini 2 years ago
It's just PURE and wonderful.
Wired? Nooooo! That's life. Sometimes.
aqwaya 2 years ago
I like the song.
FanPeterGabriel 2 years ago
He wasn't chosen to sing this. He shouldn't have done this.
lufc550 2 years ago 4
Although it's a very unique interpertation I prefer the originall version that carried me away on the wings of the gituars of radihead. and If I have to choose what version made me thrilled is defenetly the original one. and another thing peter gabriel doesn't need to do cover versions I can't wait for his next original album.
amirlavie 2 years ago
does peter himself like it? if he does, i'm impressed. this is just not done right. seems like a rough draft version. and the singing out of tune... is that on purpose? is it there to add style? it's wierd.
limafilho27 2 years ago
maybe as a completly different and seperate song it could work. but as street spirit!?!?!? EW no. it's out of tune and the arpeggiated am chord is what makes it street spirit. even as a different song by itself it would still need allot of work. Singing if out of key too, horrible! so much wrong with this song.. FAIL
jonjonwhii 2 years ago 2
Musically talking, this is completely out of tune.
In other words... sounds completely like shit :/
(...nobody can deny♫)
Introcepcion 2 years ago 2
love it.
Cimbarius 2 years ago
Not so good. I'm disappointed. Both as a Peter Gabriel fan and a Radiohead fan.
LilJimmyNordin 2 years ago 4
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corfil281271 2 years ago
wow... its like the worst spoken-word track ever made
oneswtwld 2 years ago 4
Listening to this reminds me of how great Phil Collins's cover versions are. Give it up, Peter, stop trying to sound so weird and concentrate on the tune.
gideonquinn 2 years ago
not a fan of this i'm afraid
yoelbright 2 years ago 2
Sometimes I wonder if in the pursuit of being different artist neglect whether their creation or interpretation is actually any good.
This is just awful..enduring this track has been more painful than listening to three back to back Nickelback songs.
Homer8j 2 years ago
@Homer8j "three back to back Nickelback songs" is way worse.
tomasahlin 2 years ago
the music is nice and dramatic. differently than the orig. but he seems like a retard behind a microphone what the hell!
pilotdrift05 2 years ago
the best version the a group del monton
amonrico 2 years ago
grotesque
Pissugar 2 years ago
A different take on Street Spirit, which is good. The cover however, isn't good at all.
FanaticalMusicFan 2 years ago
this is horrible
tylerdawson 2 years ago 3
grosss
deathmanual 2 years ago
I like it. I don't think Thom liked it though he hasn't talked to Gabriel since he did it, ha. He gave it a different feel that's for sure
Bagodonuts15 2 years ago 4
I love that 'version'... but for me, it's not a cover! It can be described as a 'free reinterpretation'. Gabriel knew that the original is unreachable, and that he couldn't challenge Thom Yorke on it's own terrain, so he made it differently... I find it wise.
effeilensucre 2 years ago 4
The most ridiculous thing I ve ever heard. What's THAT Peter?????????????????
spectorfriend 2 years ago
Who the fuck is Thom Yorke :)
Michal757 2 years ago 3
who is thom yorke? the person who did the GOOD version of this song.
no offense to peter gabriel, but this version is sooo bad compared to the original.
If you don;t know who thom yorke is, you are really missing out.
thenolan 2 years ago
Best track on the album, the most emotional. Love it
Michal757 2 years ago 2
Too many people expect cover versions should just be a direct copy of the original and are outraged if they aren't. If this is how you think, don't listen to cover versions, you clearly don't understand them.
Oh, and listen to this album on some quality audio equipment, not on YouTube or an iPod shuffle!
1980Grafik 2 years ago 5
Are some of those vocals sour or what? I'd jokingly say they used Auto-Detune on this one. I like it so far, however, some of those vocals are just.. really out of tune.
Moryton 2 years ago
One of the best vocal performance ever heard.
The man is a genius to make us travel through every facets of the human soul.
That's the particularity of a real and huge artist.
Thanks for being yourself Mr Gabriel, and for your contribution to the musical world which wouldn't be complete without you.
Your Scratch My Back album is awesome ! ! !
FanPeterGabriel 2 years ago
@FanPeterGabriel Troll bait!
hpsfl 2 years ago
I didn't like it at first but now I really love it!
This version brings new life to a song that I got tired of.
When someone like Peter Gabriel is doing a "cover", it is obvious that he makes his very own thing out of it. Like "A Perfect Circle" did on their "eMOTIVe"-Album. I mean this is true art: Taking someone's idea and making something new and special out of it.
All I am saying is:Give this piece a chance!
And listen to it a few times!!!
proggystyle 2 years ago 4
what a failure
come peter, you can do better than that
cizer77 2 years ago
Oh damn thats some shitty music
skylineiiigtr 2 years ago
This is not good at all.
Yes, PG deserves respect, at least more than Phil Collins, but... what the fuck is this?
mahavishnu 2 years ago
This cover sounds painful yet ineffectively so. It would have been better if Gabriel took a more straightforward approach to the song.
gamelanplan 2 years ago
jajaja "...Gabriel doesn't know why Yorke hasn't responded to his song exchange program?? I believe the word is MERCY." totally agree
pelos156 2 years ago 2
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Olhado256 2 years ago
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Olhado256 2 years ago