Reality (2003)

Ah, David Bowie’s last record. Until the new one came out the other day. But way back when, upon its release in 2003, Reality was part of that grand tradition we bestow upon our favorite aging artists, where we trot out the old chestnut: “BEST ALBUM SINCE _____.” If all this sounds familiar, it’s because just about every capsule review says the same thing about The Next Day, which came out last week. But the new one’s actually good … right? Time will tell. Reality doesn’t have the reputation for quality that Heathen has somehow gained since its release — probably because the cover isn’t half as cool and only super-fans remember either album anyway — but at the time, contemporary reviewers were excited. Pitchfork gave it a respectable 7.3 (The Next Day got a 7.6 ). Coming hot on the heels of its predecessor only a year later, Reality sounded fresh, reinvigorated, and proud to be alive. The uptempo songs have a semblance of the spark we look for in “interesting rock music,” which is a major improvement, at least. “Looking for Water” recalls the vaguely African Eno-isms of Lodger and makes for an unexpected highlight. The hushed noir of “The Loneliest Guy” again sees Bowie channeling Scott Walker, which continues to be one of his most effective modes of operation in later years.