What makes The Stars (Are Out Tonight) by David Bowie notable?

The album received critical acclaim upon its release, debuting at No. 1 in the UK Albums Chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album. Additionally, the lead single 'Where Are We Now?' was praised for its poignant reflection on Bowie's past and garnered widespread media attention. By the time of its release in 2013, David Bowie was returning from a decade-long hiatus. This album marked his first new material since 'Reality' in 2003, positioning it as a significant moment in his career, especially after overcoming health challenges.

How many songs are on The Stars (Are Out Tonight)?

The Stars (Are Out Tonight) has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

The Stars (Are Out Tonight)

David Bowie · 2013

8 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A rich tapestry of reflective melodies and haunting vocals exploring fame's superficiality and intimacy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Stars (Are Out Tonight) — This title track encapsulates the overarching themes of fame and alienation with an infectious chorus and layered production that exemplifies Bowie's late-career sound.
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Where Are We Now? — As the lead single, this track serves as a poignant meditation on nostalgia and self-reflection, marking a notable return for Bowie with its haunting lyrics and melody.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Bowie's return showcases strong songwriting and production, though the two tracks feel somewhat disconnected.

What we noticed

The title track features a steady build-up of instrumentation, layering synths and guitars that create an expansive soundscape.
Vocals alternate between reflective verses and soaring choruses, emphasizing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The second track employs a minimalist arrangement with a focus on piano and subtle electronic elements, creating an intimate atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks a significant return after a long hiatus, showcasing continued artistic vitality.
Themes: celebrity disillusionment· Berlin-era reflection· nostalgic longing
Career context: By the time of its release in 2013, David Bowie was returning from a decade-long hiatus. This album marked his first new material since 'Reality' in 2003, positioning it as a significant moment in his career, especially after overcoming health challenges.
Stylistic neighbors: Brian Eno· Roxy Music· Talking Heads