Silhouettes and Shadows: The Secret History of David Bowie's Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)

Silhouettes and Shadows delves into the secret history of David Bowie's 1980 album Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps), revealing the studio stories and hidden meanings behind the avant-garde pop album as Bowie overcame his demons and became a global superstar. The album's hit singles, "Fashion" and "Ashes to Ashes," confronted listeners with chaotic images of paranoia, addiction, social breakdown, and state control.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 298 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Hal Leonard Corporation

Silhouettes and Shadows delves into the enigmatic backstory of David Bowie's 1980 album, Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps), an avant-garde pop masterpiece brimming with tension and fear that marked the pinnacle of Bowie's illustrious 1970s era. Through exclusive interviews with close collaborators, this captivating book unravels the studio tales and hidden depths behind Scary Monsters, as Bowie navigated the crossroads of a new decade. Positioned between the experimental Berlin Trilogy (Low, Heroes, and Lodger) and the 1983 smash hit Let's Dance, it was during this period that Bowie embarked on a remarkable journey of recovery, conquering his demons, and laying the ghosts of his past to pave the way for his global superstardom, captivating millions of new fans along the way.

The album's hit singles, "Fashion" and "Ashes to Ashes," not only resurrected Bowie's chart presence but also presented listeners with unsettling portrayals of paranoia, addiction, societal collapse, and state control. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres, including post-punk, synth-pop, and sexual emancipation, Bowie embraced a new wave of creativity, collaborating with artists like Joy Division, Gary Numan, and Culture Club. This artistic evolution led to the emergence of iconic figures such as the Blitz Kids and the New Romantics, who followed in Bowie's footsteps.

In a rare and revealing moment, David Bowie, the enigmatic pierrot clown of everyday romance, suffering, and song, allowed his mask to slip, revealing the man behind the persona: David Jones. This introspective exploration delves into the complexities of Bowie's character, exploring his inner struggles, vulnerabilities, and artistic evolution. Silhouettes and Shadows serves as a testament to Bowie's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the world of music and beyond.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493065646