Ziggy Stardub
Easy Star, 2023
9/10
It’s been over a decade since Easy Star All-Stars released a tribute album, and they made the wait worth it with this reimagining of David Bowie’s legendary The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars, where a whole lot of special guests are in attendance.
“Five Years” starts the listen with Steel Pulse on hand for the spacey and laid back reggae that’s full of gripping melodies, and it isn’t long until Naomi Cowan’s flawless and flowing voice enters the bright and lush “Moonage Daydream”.
Further on, the punchy drumming and vivid keys complement Sundub’s contributions to the pretty “Lady Stardust”, while “Hang On To Yourself” showcases Fishbone and Jonnygo Figure for the playful and buzzing album highlight.
Deeper still Macy Gray’s inimitable pipes enter the dreamy “Rock’n’Roll Suicide”, and “All The Young Dudes” exits with Kirsty Rock’s smooth and radiant singing populating the soulful and dynamic finish.
Certainly a reggae fueled listen, but one that’s easily accessible for fans of prog-rock, pop, soul, and hip-hop, each track here brings new surprises and a distinct vision that pays respect to Bowie’s art while cultivating a new, exciting route, too.
Travels well with: John Brown’s Body- Fireflies; Slightly Stoopid- Everyday Life, Everyday People