HOURS...

David Bowie stripped off experiments that were characteristic for his three or four last albums in the 90's and returned to contemporary adult pop/rock on this release. In comparison to "Let's dance" or other 80's releases, it is a less commercial effort albeit more radio friendly than "Earthling" for example.

The focus is on the substance and not the format which is good even though not always typical for DB. Strikingly good melodies, some good compositional hooks, memorable songs and not much time spent with instrumentation this time, that is the main message. The record is more laid back and sounds less dated than anything from the 90's or 80's.

"Hours" as the title track is deservedly one of the best songs with a charm and development that a DB fan can expect.

The longest track is a bit experimental with various drumming patterns but the melody is monotonous, though. Track 7 could easily be a Blur number, whereas the eighth track, "Suspicious minds" somehow reminds me of Tom Petty.

This album was one of my first forays into DB compositions and I recognize its place and qualities.