Earthling cover

Earthling

David Bowie · 1997

49 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock · electronic · hard rock

A frenetic blend of electronic beats and rock sensibilities infused with Bowie's characteristic avant-garde flair.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • frantic energy for active listening
  • exploratory themes of modernity
  • pulsating rhythms for dance parties
  • thought-provoking lyrics for reflection

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer slower, melodic tracks
  • seek straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Themes
American cultural critique· techno-infused reinvention· Eastern philosophical reflections
Career context
Released in January 1997, 'Earthling' marked David Bowie's return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus since 'The Buddha of Suburbia'. This album came during a period of artistic reinvention, showcasing his embrace of electronic music and modern production techniques, influenced by the burgeoning techno and dance music scenes.
Stylistic neighbors
Brian Eno· Roxy Music· Talking Heads
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The Fragile by Nine Inch Nails — Explores dark themes with a mix of electronic and rock elements, embodying a similar avant-garde approach.
OK Computer by Radiohead — Shares a critique of modernity with atmospheric soundscapes and electronic experimentation.
Odelay by Beck — Combines eclectic styles and sampling, echoing Bowie's genre-blending and cultural commentary.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Little Wonder 6:02
  • 2 Looking for Satellites 5:20
  • 3 Battle for Britain (The Letter) 4:48
  • 4 Seven Years in Tibet 6:21
  • 5 Dead Man Walking 6:50
  • 6 Telling Lies 4:49
  • 7 The Last Thing You Should Do 4:57
  • 8 I’m Afraid of Americans 5:00
  • 9 Law (Earthlings on Fire) 4:48

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata