Phew! Another Bowie album for the 1001 Albums Challenge! And yet another from his glam rock era, with that boring boogie rock and lyrics reflecting Bowie’s stardom. At this time, Bowie’s sound was probably never more similar to that of the Stones. As I've said in my reviews before, I only like parts of Bowie's work, and I have real problems with his cult albums. "Aladdin Sane definitely falls into the category of Bowie" albums that I just can’t get to grips with. In particular, I struggle with the up-tempo tracks and their ostentatious rock ’n’ roll attitude. I prefer the more introspective tracks, such as the title track. I much prefer its quirky, almost jazzy harmonies. But that song is more of an exception. Most of the album just washes over me, though it doesn't bother me as much as the opening track, "Watch That Man", or the hit single "Jean Genie", which I find unbearable even in its original version. The album ends with the best track, “Lady Grinning Soul”. Verdict: some highlights, some low points and a few filler tracks. Not a cult classic (for me), but not a complete flop either. At least that’s something.
