When David Bowie came out with a new single, “Where Are We Now,” about a month or so ago, I was just stunned. Then, producer Tony Visconti said a new album was on the way, and it was like the earth suddenly shifted on its axis.

His 24th studio album, enigmatically titled The Next Day, was recorded over a two-year period in almost complete secrecy, and it speaks volumes to his artistry.

I’ve heard it’s almost like a throwback to his Berlin triptych of albums with Brian Eno and Iggy Pop. I loved those albums, such a brilliant change-of-pace after the hysteria of Diamond Dogs and Aladdin Sane.

It’s the first new material since 2003’s Reality and will definitely be the event of the year when its released Mar. 12. Judging by “Where Are We Now,” it’s sure to be just plain hauntingly brilliant.

The second single, “The Stars Are Out Tonight,” was just released and most certainly marks Bowie’s return to rock. It’s even accompanied by a movie, with actress Tilda Swinton.

I was literally galvanized by the short film’s glamour and flat out originality. Its part Bowie’s 1976 movie “The Man Who Fell To Earth” and is just a terrifically stylized view of how Bowie has always seen the world around him, totally unique.

Interestingly in the movie, two younger performers actually lip-synch the lyrics and amazingly look like young Aladdin Sanes. By the end of the movie, Bowie and Swinton have traded parts with them.

Bowie sings almost a harmony part to the music that proves to be a most stunning effect. The refrain heard throughout the song: “They’ll burn you with their radiant smiles/ trap you with their beautiful eyes” is classic Bowie.

Remember, it was Beatle John Lennon who called Bowie the last of the originals. So true!

Danielle Dease, New Management, New Sound

Danielle Dease

She’s since changed management and producers, and she’s back in the studios with producer Julian Sundby.

From what we’ve heard, the music is just terrific. Sundby, based in Ft. Myers, Fla., has pulled together a totally unique sound for Dease. We’ll keep you posted. Congrats to her.

Names in the News

Debbie Gibson, Rutledge, Tom Cuddy, David Salidor, Jane Blunkell, Anthony Pomes, Elliot Tiber, May Pang, Helen Seaman, Tony King, Allan Steckler, Jody Klein, Wayne Avers, Karen Lampiasi, Vinny Rich, Heather Moore, ISO Records, Chelsey Northern, fun., Jacqueline Boyd, Chip.