DAVID BOWIE Let’s Dance (EMI America)

The arrival of a new David Bowie album usually means the arrival of a new David Bowie as well, and this time around is no exception. Speculation has reached a fever pitch concerning this new persona. After several recent bizarre stage and screen roles—The Elephant Man, Baal, a prisoner of war, a gigolo, a vampire’s lover—not to mention his connection with Cat People, real people are wondering what new image he’ll come up with for the next step in his musical career. The envelope, please.

The David Bowie of 1983 is...a Concerned Parent. He tells us that he wants to leave his nightmares behind and create inspirational music so his son can grow up in a better world. He thinks people should try to live together and treat each other better. David Bowie has grown up himself and is sounding quite normal. Is that kinky enough for you?

Of course, that’s just the Bowie who surfaces when confronted by presspersons armed with questions and microphones. When he’s confronted with musicians, recording studios, contracts, and his own motivations about returning to the world of music, other aspects of the man emerge. Like this album.