Album Review: David Bowie - The Next Day

Everyone thought he would not return. And even the die-hard fans, who secretly hoped for a come-back knew it was highly unlikely. But the sixty-six year old star, who suffered from serious heart problems in 2004 and was only spotted occasionally, surprised the world last January by announcing a new album (March 2013). The news was presented along side a brand new single: "Where Are We Now?”. The track, a typical ballad, pointed out that Bowie might have made a record that was going to be very “Un-Bowie” like. The video of this track is interesting and shows scenes of the old Berlin. It is a subject that is often referred to through out the song. “Where are we now?” could well be the leading phrase for the whole album, an album that reminds me personally of nostalgia and reflection. Is it art-rock? Is it alternative-rock? Is it classic-rock? It's all of them and more.

So, what can one expect from mister Ziggy Stardust, who has lived through so many different music eras and has touched many different styles of music? From the moment track one on the album starts it is clear Bowie is back. Recognisable voice, steady beat and a rigged guitar sound. I was expecting the album to be that of a sixty-six year old; calm and safe. However, the album surprises in tempo and style. "Dirty Boys", the second track on the album, hits you with a deep baritone-sax and is lyrically strong. More guitars! More beats! It doesn't stop. "The Stars (are out tonight)", also the second single released, is catchy and makes the album attractive once again. The tempo keeps a steady progression and the album starts to grow. "Love is lost", a steady rock-song, brings us into darker atmosphere again. The song leads us to a resting point. A perfect spot for "Where Are We Now?" is found on track five.

For me, the album takes a new twist every song. It's like Bowie has tried to pass by everything he's done in the past. "Valentine’s Day" is a typical '70s Bowie track. An acoustic rhythm overdubbed by a distorted guitar riff. Surprising is once again, how good his voice still sounds! "If You Can See Me" emphasizes the change of style again. A fast, almost electronically created, drumbeat stands out in this track. The album continues varying from style to style, but keeping a distinctive Bowie sound. "(You Will) Set The World on Fire" starts off with a heavy guitar in a way we haven't often heard from Bowie. It leads us to a danceable tambourine chorus. A return of the heavy guitar finishes off the song with power. The album is nearing the end now and the listener is set back once more to relax before the finale. "Heat" is the last track on the genuine album, but most versions contain three bonus tracks. Let's presume "Heat" is meant to be the last song. Bowie sings about "My father in the prison" and truth in a track that is building up to something big. However the finale doesn't come. I can only guess that this could be the reason for three bonus tracks. The last two of these tracks are definitely outstanding good-bye songs.

What are my final thoughts on this album? Surprisingly good! Lyrics that need a good few extra listening’s and tunes that sound better and different every time you hear them. Bowie has delivered an album full off different sounds, old and new, but keeping it his. This sixty-six year old  has not yet lost the touch of writing and has possibly made one of his best album in ages.