Heathen
David Bowie · 2002
68 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock · electronic · hard rock
A contemplative blend of ambient soundscapes and introspective lyrics that reflect on mortality and redemption.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- introspective reflections on mortality soundscapes for contemplation patient pacing that invites immersion
- Context
- Released in 2002, 'Heathen' marked David Bowie's return after a decade of fluctuating commercial success and personal struggles. It followed his critically acclaimed album 'Hours...' (1999), showcasing a renewed artistic vision as Bowie embraced themes of spirituality and existentialism through a more subdued musical palette.
- If you like
- alternative rock, electronic, hard rock
Heathen is an album by David Bowie, released in 2002. A contemplative blend of ambient soundscapes and introspective lyrics that reflect on mortality and redemption. 'Heathen' received significant critical acclaim, with many highlighting its introspective nature and depth. It featured prominently in year-end lists and was nominated for a Grammy Award, further solidifying Bowie's relevance in the early 2000s music landscape. The album's exploration of darker themes resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
New to David Bowie? Read our guide on where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Heathen sound like?
A contemplative blend of ambient soundscapes and introspective lyrics that reflect on mortality and redemption. Rooted in alternative rock and electronic.
What makes Heathen by David Bowie notable?
'Heathen' received significant critical acclaim, with many highlighting its introspective nature and depth. It featured prominently in year-end lists and was nominated for a Grammy Award, further solidifying Bowie's relevance in the early 2000s music landscape. The album's exploration of darker themes resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners. Released in 2002, 'Heathen' marked David Bowie's return after a decade of fluctuating commercial success and personal struggles. It followed his critically acclaimed album 'Hours...' (1999), showcasing a renewed artistic vision as Bowie embraced themes of spirituality and existentialism through a more subdued musical palette.
Who is Heathen for?
Heathen works well if you're into introspective reflections on mortality, soundscapes for contemplation and patient pacing that invites immersion.
How many songs are on Heathen?
Heathen has 16 tracks, running approximately 68 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Sunday Standout 4:45
- 2 Cactus 2:54
- 3 Slip Away Standout 6:04
- 4 Slow Burn 4:41
- 5 Afraid 3:28
- 6 I’ve Been Waiting for You 3:00
- 7 I Would Be Your Slave 5:13
- 8 I Took a Trip on a Gemini Spaceship Standout 4:06
- 9 5:15 the Angels Have Gone 5:01
- 10 Everyone Says ‘Hi’ 3:57
- 11 A Better Future 4:11
- 12 Heathen (The Rays) 4:16
Disc 2
- 1 Sunday (Moby remix) 5:11
- 2 A Better Future (remix by Air) 4:58
- 3 Conversation Piece (written 1969 — recorded 1970 — re‐recorded 2002) 3:53
- 4 Panic in Detroit (outtake from a 1979 recording) 2:59
Release Date
June 11, 2002
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
68 min 44 sec
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