David Gilmour - Live at Pompeii (Live) (2017)

David Gilmour - Live at Pompeii (Live) (2017)

David Gilmour – Live at Pompeii (Live) (2017): A Return to Sacred Ground

Released in 2017, Live at Pompeii captures David Gilmour performing in one of the most mythic locations in rock history: the ancient Roman amphitheatre of Pompeii. More than a concert film or live album, it is a symbolic homecoming—connecting Gilmour’s solo career with Pink Floyd’s legendary 1972 performance at the same site.

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History and Background

The concerts took place in July 2016, marking the first-ever public performances held at the Pompeii amphitheatre. This was historically significant: Pink Floyd’s Live at Pompeii (1972) was famously filmed without an audience.

Gilmour returned to Pompeii as part of the Rattle That Lock Tour, performing two sold-out nights. The event blended ancient history, modern technology, and deeply personal musical reflection.

The album and film were released in September 2017, directed by Gavin Elder, and quickly became one of the most celebrated live releases of Gilmour’s career.

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Credits & Lineup

• David Gilmour – vocals, guitars

• Guy Pratt – bass, backing vocals

• Chuck Leavell – keyboards

• Greg Phillinganes – keyboards

• Phil Manzanera – guitar

• Steve DiStanislao – drums

• Samantha Humble, Louise Marshall, Rachel Fury – backing vocals

This lineup emphasizes texture, atmosphere, and musical sensitivity rather than sheer power.

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Musical Style and Atmosphere

Musically, Live at Pompeii blends progressive rock, psychedelic blues, and ambient soundscapes. The natural acoustics of the amphitheatre add a haunting resonance, especially during slower, emotional passages.

The setlist balances Pink Floyd classics, solo material, and instrumental interludes, allowing Gilmour’s guitar tone to take center stage. Every note feels deliberate, spacious, and deeply expressive.

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Track Highlights

• “5 A.M.” – Cinematic opener as dusk falls over Pompeii.

• “Rattle That Lock” – Reimagined with darker, heavier textures.

• “Wish You Were Here” – Stripped-down and emotionally devastating.

• “One of These Days” – A thunderous nod to the 1972 film.

• “Comfortably Numb” – Featuring one of Gilmour’s most acclaimed late-career solos.

• “Run Like Hell” – Urgent and powerful finale under night skies.

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Fun Facts & Trivia

• This was the first concert ever performed with a live audience at Pompeii.

• The stage lighting was designed to complement the natural sunset and moonlight.

• Gilmour used several vintage guitars, including his iconic Black Strat.

• Drones and 4K cameras were used to capture the amphitheatre from above.

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Did You Know?

• The concert coincided with an exhibition of Pink Floyd artifacts in Pompeii.

• Gilmour personally approved every camera angle and edit.

• Some performances were intentionally slower to match the acoustics of the stone venue.

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Myths, Symbolism, and Urban Legends

Many fans interpret the return to Pompeii as a spiritual closing of the Pink Floyd chapter, especially given the absence of Roger Waters.

Others see it as a tribute not to the band, but to time itself—ancient ruins hosting modern sound, echoing themes of impermanence found throughout Gilmour’s later work.

Despite speculation, Gilmour has stated the performance was about celebration, not nostalgia.

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Goofs and Criticism

• Some purists criticized the heavy reliance on lighting and visuals.

• A few fans felt the setlist leaned too heavily on later material.

• Minor sync issues were reported in early theatrical screenings.

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Cultural and Commercial Impact

Live at Pompeii topped music video charts worldwide and received widespread critical acclaim. It is often ranked among the greatest live concert films of the 21st century.

The release reinforced Gilmour’s reputation as a master of atmosphere and emotional storytelling, proving that his artistic voice remains powerful well into his later years.

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Conclusion

Live at Pompeii (2017) is not just a live album—it is a meditation on legacy, sound, and place. By returning to sacred ground, David Gilmour didn’t recreate history—he reframed it, offering a performance that feels timeless, dignified, and deeply human.

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