Never-before-seen photographs of the iconic Manchester group Oasis chronicle the rapid ascent, tumultuous fall, and eventual reunion of one of the UK’s most legendary bands. Captured by their long-time photographer Jill Furmanovsky, these images provide a glimpse into life with the notorious Gallagher brothers.
Featured in a new book three decades in the making, the collection of 500 photos traces Oasis from their humble beginnings in Manchester to their meteoric success during the Britpop era of the 1990s. As the band wraps up their UK reunion tour with two shows at Wembley Stadium, Noel Gallagher has given his seal of approval to the book titled “Oasis: Trying to Find A Way Out of Nowhere.”
Noel praised Furmanovsky, likening her to his own mother, Peggy, for her unparalleled ability to capture the essence of life with Oasis. He fondly recalled their first encounter in 1994 and the subsequent bond that formed as she documented the band’s journey to fame.
The book delves into the early years of Oasis, their European tours, studio sessions, and historic performances at Knebworth Park in 1996, where they rocked massive crowds over two nights. These gigs were pivotal in defining the era of Britpop and solidifying Oasis’ place in music history.
Reflecting on the band’s explosive rise, Noel emphasized the importance of having a maternal figure like Furmanovsky on the road. He commended her unassuming presence and her ability to capture candid moments that truly encapsulated the essence of Oasis.
Furmanovsky, a renowned photographer with a portfolio that includes rock legends like Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd, has earned Noel’s deep respect for her unwavering dedication to her craft. Her diverse body of work, ranging from live performances to intimate backstage shots, showcases her versatility as a photographer.
Noel expressed his admiration for Furmanovsky’s ability to evoke emotion and nostalgia through her photographs, highlighting the significance of visual imagery in connecting fans with their favorite artists. He credited her for always capturing authentic moments that resonated with him on a personal level.
In closing, Noel lauded Furmanovsky’s consistent ability to capture his essence in photographs, noting the genuine friendship that has developed over their 30-year association. The bond forged through their shared experiences has made her an integral part of Oasis’ extended family.
“MUST KEEP: Oasis: Trying to Find a Way Out of Nowhere” by Jill Furmanovsky and Noel Gallagher is set to be published by Thames & Hudson on September 23, priced at £50.