THE MAN WHO SOLD THE WORLD

"The Man Who Sold The World" is a classic beyond doubt. It has a certain dark, brooding, menacing feel to it. The opener "Width of a circle" sets the tone well with its hard-rock edge. It was paraticularly "heavy" for its time, just like the early Black Sabbath albums were. As for the guitar work, there are homages to Hendrix but Mick Ronson manages to pull it off and still sound the way that only Ronno can. Tony Visconti's bass work is quite excellent here too. Listen out for the psychedelic "All The Madmen" which is about coming to terms with insanity or simply alienation. "After All" is strangely beautiful, whilst "Black Country Rock" is a full on rock 'n' roll belter. The title track is also a highlight with its haunting sound and themes of searching our identity.

All this, and the great cover of Bowie in a dress, playing cards strewn on the floor of Haddon Hall makes it more than worth while. If you are a Bowie fan, this is absolutely essential (but you would probably already have it!) Lovers of progressive rock should have it too. I think that David was going from strength to strength and even better releases were yet to come! Four solid stars.