Peter Gabriel will release his new album, o\i, at some point in late 2026, but fans don't know exactly when yet. What fans can likely assume is that, just like with the alt-rock legend's most recent release, 2023's i/o, every track from the record will have already been dropped, one at a time with every full-moon cycle.
"I Belong to the Sky," which was released on June 29, is a slight detour from the other six tracks for the upcoming album. It's not completely jazz, and it retains its Gabriel-ness, but it's one you can shake your booty to. It's not an upbeat dance house tune, but instead, the single is a wondrous slow burn.
The song begins with an instrumental intro that lasts a bit more than a minute. Gabriel's soothing vocals then enter with a declaration that states the name of the track. The entire feel is lovely, but one might wonder if the performer can keep up the entertainment for the length of the track, which measures seven minutes and 23 seconds.
Peter Gabriel delivers a slight change of pace with his latest full-moon single, "I Belong to the Sky"
Around two minutes and 30 seconds in, the song changes ever so slightly. It's suddenly, and momentarily, less jazzy, and will remind some of 1990's Gabriel, which was a bit more straightforward rock, but then the single reverts to something akin to what one would hear on Sting's Dream of the Blue Turtles.
This back and forth continues for some time, but stunningly, neither pace feels out of place and augments the other. To be sure, this isn't a song for those who need linear narratives. The tune jumps around, and while there is certainly repetition, one can never be sure when that will occur.
What helps propel the song toward excellence is the drums. The instrument on "I Belong to the Sky" won't be mistaken for a Neil Peart solo, mind you, but that isn't necessary. Instead, the drums supply a consistent point of reference, holding the entire piece together.
The ending doesn't quite feel complete, but the song overall is seemingly one that never has a true beginning or end. It could go on for eternity, and that would be as fine as possible. Unlike the adrenaline rush of "Shock the Monkey," the tune could stretch for another few minutes and make for lovely dinner party music.
So, yes, Peter Gabriel does pull off the lengthy single with ease and leaves one wanting to see what's next from o\i. We just have to wait until another full-moon cycle to find out.
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