David Gilmour unveils first solo album in nearly a decade: “Luck And Strange”

David Gilmour, the iconic figure from Pink Floyd, has set the stage for his return with the announcement of his upcoming solo album, “Luck And Strange,” slated for release on September 6 via Sony Music. The anticipation builds as fans await the unveiling of the album’s debut track, “The Piper’s Call,” scheduled for release this Thursday, April 25, with an exclusive premiere on BBC Radio 2’s “Breakfast Show.”

Recorded over a span of five months in Brighton and London, “Luck And Strange” marks Gilmour’s first venture into new material in nine years. Helming the production alongside Charlie Andrew, renowned for his collaborations with ALT-J and Marika Hackman, Gilmour reflects on this fresh partnership, stating, “We invited Charlie to the house, and his approach was refreshingly candid. He challenged the norms, questioning the necessity of certain elements in my music. His bold perspective injected a new energy into the creative process, which I found invigorating.“

The lyrical landscape of “Luck And Strange” is crafted predominantly by Polly Samson, Gilmour’s long-time collaborator of three decades. Samson provides insights into the thematic essence of the album, noting, “It’s a reflection on the passage of time and the contemplation of mortality.” Gilmour echoes this sentiment, revealing, “Polly and I delved deep into these themes during and post-lockdown, engaging in profound discussions that shaped the album’s narrative.“

The album comprises eight original compositions intertwined with a poignant rendition of The Montgolfier Brothers’ “Between Two Points,” complemented by Anton Corbijn’s evocative artwork and photography. A stellar lineup of musicians contributes to the record, including Guy Pratt and Tom Herbert on bass, Adam Betts, Steve Gadd, and Steve DiStanislao on drums, and Rob Gentry and Roger Eno on keyboards, with string and choral arrangements by Will Gardner. Notably, the title track features a posthumous performance by Pink Floyd‘s Richard Wright, captured during a spontaneous jam session in 2007 at Gilmour’s residence.

In a testament to the album’s collaborative spirit, familial bonds intertwine with musical creativity, as evidenced by contributions from Gilmour’s children, Romany and Gabriel. Romany’s ethereal vocals and harp melodies grace “Between Two Points,” a piece inspired by the global live streams hosted by Gilmour and family during the pandemic-induced lockdowns.

Reflecting on this familial synergy, Gilmour expresses gratitude for the newfound freedom in creative expression. He remarks, “The collaborative process with Polly and the involvement of our children instilled a sense of liberation, allowing me to break free from artistic constraints. ‘Luck And Strange’ embodies this newfound sense of freedom, symbolizing a departure from the past and embracing the boundless possibilities of the present.“