The Thin White Duke is more than just a middle-age rock 'n' roll icon intent on just cruising along, playing it safe, releasing rehashed variations on previous themes. He's one of a handful of artists who is still capable of creating genre-defining music. This title-track -- "Blackstar" -- from his 28th studio album builds off of the sonic vibe of Station to Station but adds jazz textures and extended motifs. And it seems like a logical extension offered on his previous "rock" album, The Next Day, and even more so from his 2014 single "Sue (Or in a Season of Crime)." Aided once again by longtime producer Tony Visconti, Bowie is in fine voice. Moreover, his young NY-based backing "jazz" band led by saxophonist Donny McCaslin, who appeared on said 2014 single -- have definitely provided a creative spark for the veteran rocker. Visconti's production provides just enough sonic texture to keep things percolating. Blackstar is set for release on January 8th, 2016.
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