Peter Murphy, the celebrated voice and enigmatic persona behind the groundbreaking post-punk band Bauhaus, is set to captivate audiences once again with the announcement of two new live albums. These releases mark the launch of Murphy’s own record label, Silver Shade Records, signaling a new chapter in the illustrious career of this influential artist. For fans worldwide, this news is a thrilling opportunity to delve deeper into the musical world of Peter Murphy Bauhaus and experience his electrifying performances.
Murphy, whose distinctive vocals and theatrical flair defined the gothic rock movement and beyond, first rose to prominence as the frontman of Bauhaus. The band’s dark, atmospheric sound and Murphy’s captivating stage presence cemented their place in music history. Beyond Bauhaus, Peter Murphy has forged a successful solo career, consistently exploring diverse musical landscapes and pushing creative boundaries. Now, with Silver Shade Records, he takes further control of his artistic output, promising fans a curated collection of live recordings and reissues.
The first two releases on Silver Shade Records, both titled under the ‘Peter Live’ banner, are set to drop on June 21st via Cadiz Music. These albums offer distinct perspectives on Murphy’s live performances, highlighting both his interpretations of other artists’ work and his own extensive catalog.
‘Peter Live – Vol One – Covers’ presents Peter Murphy Bauhaus in a fascinating light, showcasing his unique ability to transform songs across genres. This collection features Murphy’s interpretations of tracks ranging from Iggy Pop’s raw energy of ‘Funtime’ to the industrial angst of Nine Inch Nails’ ‘Hurt’. Notably, the version of ‘Hurt’ included features Trent Reznor himself on piano, adding an extra layer of depth and authenticity to this already powerful rendition. Other highlights on ‘Volume One Covers’ include a dramatic take on Pere Ubu’s ‘Final Solution’, a vibrant nod to Magazine’s ‘The Light Pours Out Of Me’, and theatrical embraces of Elvis Presley’s ‘Love Me Tender’ and Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’. For fans of Peter Murphy Bauhaus, hearing these diverse influences filtered through his unique artistic lens is a compelling experience. Even David Bowie’s ‘Space Oddity’ receives a Murphy-esque treatment, enhancing the song’s inherent sense of isolation and unease.
The second release, ‘Peter Live – Vol Two – The Blender Theater NYC 2008’, transports listeners to a specific moment in Peter Murphy Bauhaus’s live performance history. Recorded at the Blender Theatre in New York City, this album captures Murphy and his band in top form, delivering a career-spanning setlist. Fans can expect to hear Bauhaus classics alongside Peter Murphy’s solo hits, including tracks like ‘Cuts You Up’, ‘I’ll Fall With Your Knife’, ‘Crystal Wrists’, and ‘Gliding Like a Whale’. This album offers a vibrant snapshot of a Peter Murphy Bauhaus live concert, showcasing his enduring stage presence and the band’s musical prowess.
Both ‘Peter Live’ albums promise to be more than just standard live recordings. They are described as “snapshots of something special, something spiritual,” capturing the unique musical imagination that Peter Murphy Bauhaus brings to both his own material and the songs he chooses to interpret. The live setting adds an undeniable energy and excitement, further solidifying Peter Murphy’s status as a compelling and enduring performer.
For longtime fans of Peter Murphy Bauhaus, and for those new to his work, these two albums offer a rich and engaging entry point into his musical world. ‘Peter Live – Vol One – Covers’ provides a fascinating exploration of his influences and interpretive skills, while ‘Peter Live – Vol Two – The Blender Theater NYC 2008’ captures the raw energy of his live performances. With the launch of Silver Shade Records, Peter Murphy is not only looking back at his impressive career but also paving the way for future musical endeavors. These new releases are a testament to his lasting impact on music and a welcome addition to the collections of Peter Murphy Bauhaus enthusiasts everywhere.
Both albums are available for pre-order now, offering fans the chance to secure limited edition vinyl versions and CDs. ‘Peter Live – Vol One – Covers’ features golden nugget colored vinyl and embossed sleeve, while ‘Peter Live Vol Two Blender Theater NYC 2008’ is available as a double vinyl or double CD set, with a silver nugget colored vinyl limited edition. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Peter Murphy Bauhaus live through these exciting new releases.
