David Bowie - David Bowie [1967]

David Bowie - David Bowie (1967)

Genre: Baroque Pop, Music Hall

David Bowie's first album is one that seems to have been forgotten by fans and critics alike, as it is completely different from the sort of music he would become known for. As a reminder, I do not intend for this to be a really in-depth and complex review. I'm just sharing my quick personal thoughts on the album. As for any album review I will do, I try to be objective without letting any personal bias get too much in the way of the final grade.

Unlike Bowie's later celebrated efforts of the 70's which pulled influences from folk and glam rock, this is an odd specimen, focusing on baroque pop tunes that at times borders on cheesiness and/or cringe-worthy quips. Admittedly, the instrumentals on this record mostly work well for a 60's pop record. Quite a few tunes do have some catchy, if somewhat simplistic rhythms and some prominent brass and string arrangements. The underlying problem here mostly lies in Bowie's vocal presentation and lyrics.

Let me first point out a couple of stand-out tracks, however. Sell Me A Coat is quite a pleasant, if cliché love song. I'm sorry to say that if you find this song incredibly cheesy or cutesy, then it really doesn't get much better. Love You Till Tuesday is my other favorite on here, which ironically, just maybe the cheesiest song on the entire record. I can admit I can dig some cutesy tunes from time to time, but I still have to point out the cringe-worthy remark at the end of the song: "Well, I might stretch it till Wednesday..." It's pretty funny, and it's worth a listen just to see how far Bowie has come. 

Aside from the love songs, it's weird to see a few examples of dark subject matter here. We Are Hungry Men presents a bleak picture of the world with lyrics that target overpopulation, abortion rights, and communism. I can't help but not laugh though, as the end of the song showcases a sound clip of Bowie swallowing, as an obvious pun to the title. Please Mr. Gravedigger sees Bowie taking on the persona of a guilt-ridden murderer. It has the dishonorable distinction of being the worst track on this record simply because it lacks music. This is pretty much an acapella tune over the sounds of thunder and rain, clearly adding to the effect of the story, but this isn't what I want to hear from a pop record.

For what this album is, it still fails to deliver on interesting ideas. If you don't mind your fair share of cheesy tunes and/or are just curious about Bowie's humble beginnings, still give this record a try. For most people, fans or not, this still isn't a very good record. I'm just glad that he shied away from this genre and music style and moved onto bigger and better things. I love David Bowie, but as far as debut albums go among my favorite artists, this is one of the worst. 

D+

Favorite Tracks: Sell Me A Coat, Love You Till Tuesday, When I Live My Dream

Least Favorite Track: Please Mr. Gravedigger