David Bowie may be absent from the media these days, but his long-time producer often breaks news on his behalf. Tony Visconti, who produced more Bowie albums than anyone else, according to CNN , confirmed reports Bowie has a new album in the works. Visconti produced Bowie’s 2013 comeback release The Next Day , which was his return to music after a decade-long absence.
In the interview with CNN , Visconti explained the reason for Bowie’s long break from recording.
“He was really happy about taking a break. He was in fine health. There were all kinds of rumors flying around and he wasn’t upset that people thought was in ill health or anything like that. He says, ‘I’m just not inspired. I’ll wait until I feel it.’”
Notably, Visconti also revealed a bit of news about Bowie’s future musical plans.
“Well there’s gonna be another album, definitely… he announced to his fans recently ‘there’s more music soon.’ That obviously means another album. I don’t think he’s going to be busking on the Tube. As far as a concert is concerned, I have no idea.”
Visconti was likely referring to the cryptic message sent to fans at a recent charity function. Whether Visconti is, or was, actually in the studio since producing The Next Day was unclear. It does seem probable from Visconti’s comments, however, that the “new music soon” Bowie promised in the message was not the upcoming compilation album which is set to feature one new track.
Visconti spoke with CNN on the occasion of rehearsals for a series of performances of Bowie’s album The Man Who Sold The World this week. Digital Spy reports Visconti joined with former Spiders From Mars drummer Woody Woodmansey to create a band called Holy Holy for the performances in Sheffield, Glasgow, and London. The last remaining date is in London on September 22.
The CNN report also noted late guitarist Mick Ronson’s sister, daughter, and niece are also part of the band, providing backing vocals. Visconti himself is playing bass at the events. Glenn Gregory of Heaven 17 is on lead vocals while Steve Norman of Spandau Ballet plays saxophone and guitars. The complete Man Who Sold The World album has never been performed live.
Rolling Stone described the new Bowie release , set for November, as a “career-spanning compilation” encompassing Bowie’s 50-year career. Two new tracks are on deck: “Sue (Or a Season in Crime),” on the compilation itself and “‘Tis a Pity She’s a Whore,” as a digital download and B-side to the vinyl single of “Sue.”
[David Bowie Image: Jimmy King/Google]