Search - David Bowie :: David Live

A Very Exciting Concert

Mike B. | 02/27/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In 1974 Bowie released the incredible "Diamond Dogs" album, then went on tour to promote it. This "live" document of the tour features his best-known album tracks of the previous five years, performed before an enthusiastic crowd at the Tower Theater in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania (not in Philadelphia, as noted on the sleeve).



Fans only acquainted with Bowie's prolonged dance-music era will be surprised at how different (and how good) he was during these earlier years. Here he sings material from his albums "Space Oddity", "The Man Who Sold The World", "Hunky Dory", "Ziggy Stardust", "Aladdin Sane", and "Diamond Dogs". Indeed, this set functions as a "greatest hits" of his most popular songs up until that time.



The aforementioned albums were the most unusual of the early '70's. Truly strange words and music - like nothing ever heard before. And his "live" show and theatrics were like nothing ever seen before! Artistically, he would never be the same again. After this he released the much different-sounding "Young Americans". "David Live" was the "last hurrah" of what many people (myself included) consider to be the most creative and entertaining period of his life.



Having disbanded the Spiders From Mars a year earlier, Bowie is accompanied by Tony Newman-drums;Pablo Rosario-percussion;David Sanborn-alto sax,flute;Richard Grando-baritone sax,flute;Mike Garson-piano,mellotron;Herbie Flowers-bass;Gui Andrisano and Warren Peace-vocal backings;Michael Kamen-electric piano,moog,oboe;and Earl Slick-guitar.



These veterans all play fantastically, but of special note are the contributions of Mike Garson and Earl Slick. Their piano and guitar parts dominate, and between them they make the record something special. The sax parts are nice too. They tamper with the arrangements on many songs, slowing some down and speeding others up - or they insert tinkly piano or fiery guitar that didn't exist on the studio versions. For these differences alone this is worth collecting.



While I highly recommend buying all of the above Bowie albums, this is a good place to start for a curious newcomer or a casual fan. See what all the buzz was about!"

Great music

Joseph Thompson | NewJersey | 01/10/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Yes the other review from the guy who plays guitar is 100% right. The guitar playing is great especially on Moonage Daydream. I also play and I say the horn sounds combined with the rockin guitar could wake the dead. Bowie voice is strong either live here or in the studio."

Turned out to be among Bowie's best!

Kenny Covington | Spartanburg, SC USA | 12/23/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album was derided when it first came out as being a little "rough" around the edges. That's what makes this cd so awesome and listenable now! Bowies voice is great... a little huskey, but nonetheless,sexy and hot! As others have pointed out the musicians are superb and beyond compare. A great edition to any Bowie fans collection!"