David Bowie “Blackstar”

    With the recent passing of legendary musician David Bowie, the music world lost not only another rock icon but a true innovator and creative genius.  Bowie was never  one to shy away from experimentation.  Pushing the envelope over the years and continually reinventing himself, he  introduced us to quintessential characters like Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke. His latest and final studio album, “Blackstar,” was released just days prior to his death and is a true testament to his artistry and imagination.

     The seven song record opens with the title track, an almost ten minute soulful, jazz influenced journey setting the stage for the rest of the album.  There is a amalgam of different genres and sounds  mixed in with the jazzy feel blended with the help of producer Tony Visconti.  But it is the impassioned pleas of saxophonist Donny McCaslin that really drive the album acting as a lead to the background of  guitars, keyboards, and at times even Bowie’s vocals.  Included is “Lazarus” from the off-Broadway show which Bowie co-wrote and a reinvention of the prior release “Sue (Or In a Season of Crime).”  Another reworked track “‘Tis a Pity She Was a Whore” is a standout with an absolutely beautiful cacophony of sound and noise.  The understated rock vibe of “I Can’t Give Everything Away” closes out the record with a stirring and emotive vocal performance from Bowie.

     Once again,  Bowie has stepped outside the box with the avant-garde “Blackstar” and delivered a perfect swan song as his musical adieu.