Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) cover

Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)

David Bowie · 1980

45 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock · electronic · hard rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of new wave and avant-garde sensibilities wrapped in haunting melodies and sharp lyrics.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting melodies with sharp lyrics
  • playful irreverence in musical themes
  • dynamic shifts between tracks
  • engaging storytelling through sound

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward, predictable sounds
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Themes
Major Tom's nostalgia· consumerism critique· societal fear· artistic reinvention
Career context
Released on September 12, 1980, 'Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)' marked David Bowie's return to the forefront after a brief hiatus following his Berlin Trilogy. This album was pivotal as it represented his artistic reinvention, combining pop accessibility with avant-garde experimentation, positioning Bowie for a successful new decade.
Stylistic neighbors
Brian Eno· Roxy Music· Talking Heads
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Remain in Light by Talking Heads — Shares a similar blend of avant-garde and rhythmic experimentation with sharp societal observations.
Hounds of Love by Kate Bush — Combines haunting melodies and theatrical storytelling, echoing Bowie's artistic reinvention.
The Pleasure Principle by Gary Numan — Features synth-driven soundscapes and themes of isolation, resonating with Bowie's emotional undercurrents.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 It’s No Game, Part 1 4:17
  • 2 Up the Hill Backwards 3:16
  • 3 Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) 5:12
  • 4 Ashes to Ashes 4:26
  • 5 Fashion 4:50
  • 6 Teenage Wildlife 6:57
  • 7 Scream Like a Baby 3:37
  • 8 Kingdom Come 3:45
  • 9 Because You’re Young 4:56
  • 10 It’s No Game, Part 2 4:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata