The release of David Bowie's previously unheard demo, 'Today', from the 1965 Shel Talmy Recordings album, is a fascinating glimpse into the early days of one of music's most iconic figures. This track, recorded before Bowie adopted his famous moniker, showcases a melancholic, stripped-back ballad style that would later become a signature of his sound. The song's lyrics, recalling lost love and heartbreak, are poignant and relatable, even decades after their creation. This demo, along with others on the album, was recorded on London's Denmark Street at Central Sound Studios, a hub of musical activity in the 1960s. The album's producer, Shel Talmy, known for his work with The Who and The Kinks, adds to the historical significance of these recordings. The inclusion of pre-Led Zeppelin Jimmy Page, The Yardbirds, and Nicky Hopkins further emphasizes the star-studded nature of this early Bowie project. The sleeve notes by Alec Palao provide valuable context, urging listeners to judge the music by the standards of the time rather than Bowie's later, more famous work. This album is not just a historical artifact but a testament to Bowie's early resilience and artistic development. The release of 'Today' and the upcoming album 'David Bowie: The Shel Talmy Recordings' is a significant event for Bowie fans, offering a rare opportunity to explore the foundations of a musical legend. It invites us to appreciate the evolution of Bowie's sound and the influences that shaped his iconic career.
