David Bowie’s iconic album ‘Station to Station’ turns fifty on January 23 and the celebration arrives in a way that feels worthy of its legacy. Rhino honors the moment with a limited edition half speed mastered LP and a picture disc pressed from the same master. Each version includes a reproduction of a vintage promotional poster, giving fans a tribute rooted in the spirit of its original release.
‘Station to Station’ carried Bowie into a new world of sound when he recorded it at Cherokee Studio in Los Angeles. The album blended his Plastic Soul chapter with the experimental style that would shape the music ahead. “Golden Years” delivered a hit on both sides of the Atlantic, and “TVC 15” later opened his Live Aid set for an audience of nearly two billion people. The album also reflected Bowie’s growing fascination with the rhythmic pulse of German innovators like Neu! and Kraftwerk, especially in the expansive title track.
The sessions came together with a focused and compelling band. Harry Maslin co produced alongside Bowie, guiding a lineup that included Carlos Alomar and Earl Slick on guitars, George Murray on bass, Dennis Davis on drums and Roy Bittan on piano and organ. Geoffe MacCormack, under the name Warren Peace, added backing vocals. Maslin has shared that Bowie delivered the vocals for “Wild Is The Wind” and “Golden Years” on their first takes, capturing the immediacy that defines the record.
Only ten days after the album’s release, Bowie launched the Isolar Tour, a run that visited more than sixty five shows across eleven countries. The tour became known for its striking use of bright white lights against dark backdrops and remains one of his most influential stage productions. As soon as it wrapped, Bowie headed to Berlin with Iggy Pop and Tony Visconti to begin the next chapter of his creative evolution.
This new anniversary pressing was cut on a customised Neumann VMS80 lathe from 192kHz restored masters of the original Record Plant tapes. John Webber handled the half speed cut at AIR Studios, preserving the album’s depth and energy for listeners who want to experience it with fresh clarity.
‘Station to Station’ Tracklisting
A1. Station to Station
A2. Golden Years
A3. Word On A Wing
B1. TVC 15
B2. Stay
B3. Wild Is The Wind