David Bowie started released boxsets split up by eras starting with Five Years (1969-1973) that was released in 2015 and has continued with four more sets since then. One of the selling points of the boxes is the inclusion of compilations which mop up stray singles, alternate mixes, B-sides, etc. Re:Call 1 is a double disc affair that includes the classic “Space Oddity” in two of the first three tracks. The first in mono and the second version sung in Italian. B-side “Conversation Piece” is a psychedelic folk song about a shy boy to nervous to talk to others – “I’m a thinker/Not a talker/No one to talk to anyway”.
“Holy Holy” appears twice and is a good bit of nonsensical fun. Both “Moonage Daydream” and “Hang On To Yourself” appear in Arnold Corn versions, a band that Bowie put together as a lead up to Ziggy Stardust. The versions differ from their more familiar album versions by being slowed/stripped down takes – the former losing it’s glam/metal stomp and the latter sounding like a track from the late 50s.
“John, I’m Only Dancing” also appears twice, in its single edit and the sax version which adds a touch of that horn to great effect. A Chuck Berry cover of “Round and Round” appears with Bowie doing his best Mick Jagger impression. The whole set is closed off with impressive B-side “Velvet Goldmine”. The track left off albums, possibly due to its risqué nature is a stomper before it slows with its piano chorus. While there are a few skippable moments, Re:Call 1 is a terrific collection of odds and sods from Bowie’s first phase.
8/10
The Light Appears 