Wednesday 20th June 2007

Continuing to attract its fair share of big names down to deepest, darkest Cornwall; St Austell's Eden Project plays host to Peter Gabriel tonight, playing a crowd pleasing greatest hits set to mark the arrival of a new 70 tonne sculpture entitled The Seed.

First up though, are acoustic roots duo Show Of Hands; an outfit specialising in plodding folk niceties.  We're talking beards, fiddles and no doubt plenty of real ale here, the duo ploughing through a set that whilst hardly the pinnacle of excitement or energy, showcases just why they've built up such a loyal fanbase, Show Of Hands meandering along with a sense of humility, good natured banter and middle of the road songwriting.  Imagine older, grizzlier versions of James Morrison and James Blunt bitten by the folk bug and you'll be right about there.

It's Peter Gabriel, though that brings the evening to life; working his way through an accomplished and polished set, that despite the persistent rain showers, proves a special occasion.  Looking these days like a curious mixture between Lost's John Locke and Dennis Hopper, Gabriel is on fine form; his voice sounding stronger than ever, still imbued with that old magic.  Early highlights include an aptly picked BLOOD OF EDEN and the heartfelt FAMILY SNAPSHOT, songs that unite a wet but enthusiastic audience.

It's STEAM though that provides one of the nights biggest reactions, the eighties classic bringing a party atmosphere to proceedings; his backing band in particular lending a tight and funky edge to matters.  Encoring with the double whammy of SOLSBURY HILL and SLEDGEHAMMER, Peter Gabriel has the audience in the palm of his hands, climaxing with IN YOUR EYES, played out against the multicoloured biodomes and stunning scenery.

Another memorable and truly special night of music at the Eden Project