DAVID BOWIE
Heathen (ISO/Columbia)
Reviewed by Melanie Campbell

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If Madonna is the queen of 'reinvention,' then she took a cue or two from King David. David Bowie had probably already invented himself a couple times over before Maddie was barely out of diapers. And he's at it again, but this time, Bowie has reinvented himself as -- Bowie. Ha! You thought that the guy who existed before "Let's Dance" was gone, didn't you? Fooled you, he did, coming back strong after a several-year absence (1999's Hours), cranking out more soul-searching, guitar-driven hauntings than he has since Scary Monsters. Check out the chilly coldplay of "Sunday," the almost-calliope-sounding "Slip Away," and the spectacular axe action on "Slow Burn." The latter's guitar wizardry is provided by guest guitarist Pete Townshend, romping his way through some vintage amp rage in a collaboration that would have been made in Classic Rock Heaven if it weren't so edgy. Ever the fan, Bowie also serves up a couple of tasty covers, the Pixies' "Cactus" (Bowie covers the Pixies! I have died and gone to heaven!), and Neil Young's "I've Been Waiting For You," featuring Foo Fighter Dave Grohl. Essential listening for Bowie fans, and a darned good return to form for the rest of us.

© 2002 - Melanie Campbell