David Bowie - Blue Jean (EMI America)

Used to be that one thing you could never accuse Bowie of being was ordinary. Until "Let's Dance", that is. Suddenly, in a successful bid for mainstream appeal, he chucked away the weird quality that had in the past inspired so many people. The result was a slick but fairly ordinary pop LP. "Dull, dull, dull," our reviewer commented at the time, and for Bowie that was an unpardonable sin. On this, the first track of the batch that'll make up the next LP, he's stuck to the basic "Let's Dance" rock band format, added (but way in the distance) some wiggy percussion and made a single that can only be described, once again, as dull. At least, by his standards. (Dave Rimmer, Smash Hits, September 13, 1984)

With a legend like Bowie it's all too easy to let the past cloud the present. The prowess and magic of his old gems can often lead to an all too critical eye being placed on his every move whereas conversely, it may allow him to get away with murder. Any hopes of an Ali style comeback could be daunted though. Standards are standards and this is as standard - i.e. mediocre - as they come. (Pedro, Record Mirror, September 15, 1984)

When this record was first slapped onto the No.1 stereo a reverential silence descended on the office. "It's a bit plain," somebody ventured when it was finished, and at the time I agreed. However, as with most of Bowie's recent work 'Blue Jean' is more of a grower than an instant favourite. Not one of his all-time greats. But listen twice before you make up your mind. (Dave Ling, No 1, September 15, 1984)

David Bowie - Loving The Alien (EMI America)

Masterclass. "Tonight" was a bit flaccid by Bowie's standards, with occasional highlights. This is magnificent. Dynamite string arrangement, perceptive lyrics, gatefold sleeve, excellent artwork. On a scale of one to 10 - 11. (Martyn Fry [ABC],Record Mirror, June 1, 1985)

Outclasses everything else this week. I like the bit in the middle that sounds like "See My Baby Jive". Sadly I don't think it'll be a hit. (Mark White [ABC], Record Mirror, June 1, 1985)

If you like Bowie then you'll like this. If you don't like Bowie after 1978 (like myself) it'll sound like the usual boring Bowie (I don't think I'll bother him by writing that). (Simon O'Brien, Smash Hits, May 22, 1985)

Yes, we do love you, don't we David? After all the image changes he's growing up gracefully. And he still has the edge over most of his rivals. This is a surging, middle-aged drama telling how good causes can become obscured during the passage of time. Although it's jerky and disjointed there's something haunting and even spooky about it. Quite brilliant. (Paul Bursche, No 1, June 1, 1985)