Silver Shade by Peter Murphy (2025)

Lion (2014)	Ninth (2011)	Unshattered (2004)
Dust (2002)	Cascade (1995)	Holy Smoke (1992)
Deep (1989)	Love Hysteria (1988)	Should the World Fail to Fall Apart (1986)

Silver Shade is Peter Murphy’s latest album; his first new music in over 10 years.

I was never into goth, but I certainly understood the importance of Bauhaus and knew what an important role Peter Murphy played. When I first heard of Murphy, it was through his signature song, “Cuts You Up”, in 1990, well into his solo career. I think by this time, his Deep album remains his best record to date, at least according to charts and sales.

A few years ago, we tried to see the reunion Bauhaus show, but it was cancelled due to Murphy’s health. I thought Murphy would have taken it easy, so I was surprised to see he’s made the effort to record and release Silver Shade on Metropolis Records. I was also surprised to see that he was going to go on tour to promote the 2025 album! But unfortunately, my fear for Murphy’s health rang true, when he announced the cancellation of the tour, citing health reasons.

In an uplifting comment, Murphy said he still eventually hope to still support the album in the future. For now, if you’re a fan, you’ll want to get the record and get familiar with it… because when he plays those Silver Shade songs, you can sing along.

As for Silver Shade, I like that Murphy still makes the effort to have a theme for the album. You notice it with the dark album artwork of a shade plant design that runs throughout the lyric book and album artwork. He’s even asked Trent Reznor (from Nine Inch Nail) and Boy George to help out on the record. Reznor sang on a few songs, like “Swoon”, while George closed out the record with “Let the Flowers Grow”.

My problem with the record is that I feel Murphy takes his art way too serious. Every line, every note, is delivered like it was life or death. That’s just Peter Murphy, I guess.

Bonus: Here are some never before seen photos of Peter Murphy from Mill City Nights, Minneapolis (12 April 2016). When I came back from the show, I realized none of my photos were usable, because Murphy chose the mood (acoustic) and the show was poorly lit. So, after nearly a decade, I’ve decided to release these previously unused photos of Peter Murphy from that night. Enjoy!