David Gilmour on His New LP ‘Luck and Strange,’ and Plans for Upcoming Tour
David Gilmour, the iconic guitarist of Pink Floyd, has unveiled his fifth solo album, Luck and Strange, released on September 6, 2024. This album marks a significant chapter in Gilmour’s illustrious career, blending personal reflections with collaborative artistry.
Album Overview
Luck and Strange comprises 11 tracks that delve into themes of aging, mortality, and introspection. Gilmour collaborated closely with his family on this project; his wife, Polly Samson, penned the majority of the lyrics, while his daughter, Romany, contributed vocals and harp. Notably, the album also features keyboard parts recorded by the late Richard Wright in 2007, adding a poignant connection to Pink Floyd’s legacy.
Critics have lauded the album for its depth and artistry. The UK’s Sun newspaper named it the best album of 2024, and Prog Magazine UK awarded it Album of the Year.
Tour Plans
To promote Luck and Strange, Gilmour embarked on a tour starting in September 2024, with performances in major cities including London, Rome, Los Angeles, and New York. The setlist features the entire Luck and Strange album, interspersed with select Pink Floyd classics such as “Wish You Were Here” and “Comfortably Numb.” Gilmour expressed a desire to focus on his newer material while acknowledging the enduring popularity of certain Pink Floyd songs.
In an effort to bring fresh energy to his performances, Gilmour introduced new musicians into his touring band, aiming for a more creative interpretation of his music rather than adhering strictly to the original recordings. He has also indicated plans to record another album with these musicians following the tour’s conclusion.
Personal Reflections
At 78, Gilmour reflects on his extensive musical journey and the passage of time. He finds working with his family liberating and has described Luck and Strange as his best work since Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon. The album’s introspective nature offers listeners a window into Gilmour’s personal and artistic evolution.
