Parlophone Vinyl & CDs

Review: This special reissue of David Bowie's Young Americans album drops on the exact day of its Golden Jubilee. It was the late, great creative maverick's nine studio album and as always found him broadening his musical horizons. He embraced what he described "plastic soul" and it worked as this album gave him his first ever number one in the US with 'Fame' which was co-written with John Lennon and Carlos Alomar, who at the time played guitar with Bowie. It has been remastered for this reissue and cut at half speed so you can really luxuriate in the details.

Review: Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this pivotal moment in Bowie's career emerged from his fascination with Philadelphia International Records and the disco-infused sounds dominating dance clubs. Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios mid-tour, Bowie's pivot to "plastic soul" was both a bold departure and a reflection of his adaptability as he morphed out of the Ziggy Stardust persona. The album features collaborations with important figures like guitarist Carlos Alomar, whose funk riff would anchor 'Fame', and a then-unknown Luther Vandross, who contributed backup vocals and songwriting. 'Fame' and the title tracks became standouts, blending funk, soul and Bowie's unique flair. The reimagined 'Fascination' and dreamy 'Win' showed the album's versatility, while covers like Lennon's 'Across the Universe' help balance out the album while highlighting Bowie's willingness to experiment. Though the album is daring as Diamond Dogs or Station to Station, it holds its own with a mix of hits and enjoyable fillers, solidifying Bowie as a trailblaser in blending genres. This half-speed mastered reissue revitalises the sound, bringing clarity and depth to an album that remains a iconic album in Bowie's catalogue.