Album Review by EDF
Recorded a year after he had killed off his Ziggy Stardust persona, DIAMOND DOGS was David Bowie’s retelling of George Orwell’s 1984, even though I’m sure that George Orwell’s estate were not happy about the project. There were rumours that Bowie was as high as a kite for most of this period and in some cases like this release, it makes for a mixed album. Sorry, mixed concept album.
Howling away to fictitious dogs on the opening track, DIAMOND DOGS is led by funky sax and piano. This leads on to SWEET THING, a slow tune with a dramatic over the top chorus, typical Bowie really. Of course, Bowie must be some kind of seer as CANDIDATE; a tale about a sleazy politician is still as relevant these days. Of course the album’s standout track is REBEL REBEL and for those who have not heard it before should go seek out this classic track. A fine blend of catchy lyrics and a killer guitar riff will stay in your head for days.
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL WITH ME has that kind of a big anthem singalong feel to it and is not what you would normally expect from Bowie. WE ARE THE DEAD is aimless and dull, while 1984 is a preview of what was to come on the follow-up album YOUNG AMERICANS. The closing couple of tracks are disappointing and you just cannot wait for them to finish. Of the extra tracks on the bonus disc, DODO is worth noting and so is the cover of Bruce Springsteen’s GROWIN’ UP and REBEL REBEL 2003 MIX. The rest is strictly for the fans.
