DAVID BOWIE'S THE NEXT DAY AN UNEXPECTED CALL FROM AN OLD FRIEND

The Next Day
2013

603 Miles To Go

David Bowie's The Next Day is an unexpected call from an eccentric old friend who you thought was gone forever except in memories.

You're happy to get it, but some of the new references ring too distant and esoteric to completely understand. Nonetheless, it's fabulous to hear to Bowie's voice again, though it remains naturally a little cold.

Always experimental, it's the first record in a decade for the 66-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee; the last was 2003's Reality. But, The Next Day dawns with the familiar feel of 1980's classic Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps).

Produced by longtime compatriot Tony Visconti, there are plenty of guitar crashes, horn splashes and musical landscapes reminiscent of Tom Waits' work with Marc Ribot. Some of the songs move into dance tempo, while others remain sparse and atmospheric.

Visconti also plays on several of the songs. Other notable players include guitarist Earl Slick, another veteran Bowie contributor, and King Crimson bassist Tony Levin.

This record isn't likely to grab you completely on first listen. You have to go back The Next Day and the next, as it becomes more approachable with each new session.

And, like most of his music, Bowie makes it ultimately worthwhile.

The Next Day Song For The Soundtrack: (You Will) Set The World On Fire

When I'm President
2012

Ian Hunter & The Rant Band: When I'm President

Another of rock's senior gentlemen, Ian Hunter, may be 74, but he's still tapping the energetic pub rock that makes his combined catalog of solo records and work with Mott The Hoople worthy of Rock Hall consideration.

On 2012's When I'm President, Hunter's voice remains vibrant and the Rant Band rocking. It's Hunter's 20th solo album and first since 2009's Man Overboard.

Throughout his career, Hunter always has understood what Jerry Lee Lewis taught about the importance of marrying big guitar riffs and pounding keyboards to create the optimal effect.

When I'm President is no exception. Jame Mastro and Mark Bosch swap turns as "guitar left," "guitar right" and soloist. Meanwhile, Andy Burton plays piano, "wurly," B3, and farfisa.

Lyrically, the album is playful on Comfortable (Flyin' Scotsman), Wild Bunch, Saint; reflective on Fatally Flawed, What For, Life; in love on Black Tears, Just The Way You Look Tonight, I Don't Know What You Want; and of course presidential on the title track.

Among his campaign promises:

"I'm gonna lean on the 1% - when I'm president
No more bargains in the basement - when I'm president
Washington - Jefferson - watch out baby - 'cos here I come
Abraham - Theodore - You're gonna see my ugly mug up on Mt. Rushmore"

Who cares if Hunter's English descent precludes him from running?

He is eligible for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and this album is further proof that he deserves the votes to be in that office.

When I'm President Song For The Soundtrack: Comfortable (Flyin' Scotsman)

Running Data For Sunday, June 2:
9.57 Miles
1:49:21

Mileage In The Change Jar: 0.77 Miles