He's Come a Long Way Review: 1972

Bowie's Ziggy Tour Power-Cut Moment

Published in the UK on June 10, 1972, Melody Maker’s one-page concert review “He's Come a Long Way” covered the 32nd show of David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust Tour at Liverpool Boxing Stadium (the world’s first purpose-built boxing venue, opened 1932, demolished 1980s). The band was the Spiders from Mars: David Bowie (vocals, guitar), Mick Ronson (lead guitar), Trevor Bolder (bass), and Mick "Woody" Woodmansey (drums). A power cut interrupted James Brown’s “You Got To Have A Job (If You Don’t Work You Can’t Eat),” leading Bowie to play an impromptu acoustic set until power was restored.

Article Text

DAVID BOWIE has come a long way since "Space Oddity," far enough to make me think that Marc Bolan won't be clinging to the Superstar label for very much longer.

"Forget what he looks like, just listen to his sounds," I was advised. But it's difficult. At Liverpool Stadium on Sunday the second gig of his current British tour - David Bowie was in superb form.

"Good Evening - this is my music," he said as he slid on stage in a multi-coloured quinned-effect suit, complete with a fascinating pair of boots. Then with kindred kindred spirit Mick Ronson on lead guitar he roared into Hang On To Yourself" and "Ziggy Stardust."

The guitar work of Bowie and Ronson must be one of the decade's spectacular achievements. As team-mates they are superb; as individuals, though, fell off, with Ronson they staying slightly in the lead.

Bowie worked his way through a packed programme, with most numbers bringing other stars to mind, such as Bob Dylan in the rocking number bearing his name.

Just as they were getting into Get A Job" the band ran into power trouble and walked off-stage for ten minutes while electricians got busy.

But they returned, much to the audience's delight and relief, with "Suffragette City" an apt title for a number all inhibitions and released a truly fantastic set.

BARBARA DRILLSMA.

Legacy

This review documents a memorable 1972 Ziggy Stardust Tour moment — Bowie’s charisma, the Spiders’ power, and an impromptu acoustic set during a power cut.

Do you have this Melody Maker review in your archive? Ready for the cosmic circus? Share in the comments!

-