David Bowie
A Reality Tour

By Andy Argyrakis

Considering David Bowie’s last studio album came out in 2003 and there’s been no peep of the chameleon heading back to the studio, his faithful followers only have this double disc affair to look forward to. While it can’t eclipse the worldwide event of a proper Bowie album, it certainly makes a case that the Thin White Duke still could crack out a killer concert, which he does with a cherry-picked 33-song set culled from every famous (and infamous) era.

Early highlights include the growling opener “Rebel Rebel” and mega-hits “All the Young Dudes” and “Fame.” Despite their age, all remain remarkably relevant and have obviously influenced pretty much every modern day alternative rock act. “Heroes” remains one of Bowie’s most empowering battle cries, soaring with nearly seven minutes of anthemic bliss. Material from the ’90s also comprises half the set list, which in the case of most heritage artists would be considered a detriment. But in this instance, these songs are assets. “New Killer Star,” “Afraid” and other cuts from his two most recent albums Heathen and Reality represent equally alluring creative output.

Yet the most intriguing trait throughout this project is Bowie’s ever-changing musical personality, which ranges from the iconic “Ziggy Stardust” to the suave ’80s grooves of “China Girl” and the Nine Inch Nails-inspired industrialism of “I’m Afraid of Americans.” The double-disc affair builds curiosity all the more for what, if anything, will come next.