Bryan Ferry's 'Taxi': Unpacking a Musical Journey

When one considers the vast landscape of music, certain albums serve as true vehicles, carrying us through different eras and sonic experiences. Bryan Ferry’s eighth solo studio album, aptly titled ‘Taxi’, is precisely one such journey. Released in March 1993, this critically acclaimed work is now being re-issued for the very first time, allowing a new generation, and devoted fans alike, to embark upon its unique sonic voyage once more. Available from November 25th, 2022, on limited edition yellow vinyl and a special Japanese-style oversized card sleeve CD, this re-release, complete with new artwork overseen by Ferry himself, marks a significant moment for enthusiasts of refined interpretations and timeless artistry.

‘Taxi’ arrives just as it approaches its 30th anniversary in March 2023, serving as a powerful reminder of Bryan Ferry’s long-standing tradition of reimagining songs from across music history. Free from the strictures of genre or the confines of time, Ferry possesses an unparalleled ability to infuse classic tracks with his distinctive elegance and sophisticated flair. The album itself is a meticulously curated collection, featuring his inspired takes on Screamin' Jay Hawkins' haunting 'I Put A Spell On You', Goffin and King's beloved 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow', and Lou Reed's enigmatic 'All Tomorrow’s Parties'. Each track on 'Taxi' is not merely a cover; it is a profound re-interpretation, delivered with the unique vocal prowess and stylistic nuance that only Bryan Ferry can provide. This album shot to number two in the UK Albums Chart upon its initial release, five years after the highly revered 1987 album, ‘Bête Noire’, cementing its place in Ferry’s formidable solo discography.

The Evolution of Roxy Music: From Glam to Accomplished Sophistication

Before delving deeper into the 'Taxi' album, it's essential to appreciate the broader context of Bryan Ferry's career, particularly his foundational role in Roxy Music. When Roxy Music first burst onto the music scene, they did so in a captivating flurry of carefully curated glitter blizzards and avant-garde fashion. They quickly became synonymous with the glam rock generation, pushing boundaries with their audacious sound and visual spectacle. However, as the 1980s dawned, the landscape for the group began to shift dramatically. Bryan Ferry had already started to establish himself as a formidable solo star, embarking on a parallel career that allowed him to explore different musical avenues.

A pivotal change within Roxy Music occurred with the departure of the influential Brian Eno. His departure fundamentally altered the band's dynamic, transforming its make-up forever. What emerged was a more streamlined, session-oriented ensemble, effectively becoming the perfect backing band for Ferry's expanding musical vision. Looking back, this evolution was far from a detriment; it marked a period of significant artistic growth. By 1982, the spangle-eyed swagger of the early seventies had matured into a far more accomplished and musically sophisticated outfit. The band was no longer reliant on theatrical costume gimmicks or the experimental genius of Brian Eno; instead, they had grown immensely as musicians, showcasing a newfound depth and precision in their performances. This maturation couldn't have been more perfectly exemplified than in their stunning 1982 cover of Neil Young's 'Like A Hurricane'.

'Like A Hurricane': A Powerful Rendition That Transports

Bryan Ferry and his collaborators were certainly no strangers to the art of the cover song. Indeed, Ferry’s solo album 'These Foolish Things' is often hailed as one of the finest covers albums of all time, a testament to his unique ability to breathe new life into existing material. Yet, even for an artist of Ferry's calibre, taking on Neil Young’s iconic 'Like A Hurricane' might have felt like a considerable challenge. Young has always maintained a legendary status for his keen ear and uncompromising artistic integrity, and the thought of him scrutinising any cover version is enough to cause apprehension for even the most seasoned singer or musician.

Despite the inherent challenge, Ferry, with the exceptional support of Andy Mackay on saxophone and Phil Manzanera on guitar, delivered a truly sumptuous rendition of the song. They didn't merely replicate Young's original; they meticulously transformed it. By 'ripping the bulb of the song from its roots', as described, they reshaped its essence, employing a fuller, richer sound and a pumped-up rhythm. The result was a track that transcended its rock origins, evolving into something far juicier and with a heap more tang – a version that arguably the Talking Heads themselves would have been proud of. This transformation of an otherwise straightforward rocker into something far more intricate and textured showcased Roxy Music's evolved musicality. So much did the group enjoy performing 'Like A Hurricane' on tour that it featured in two live album releases and remained a staple of their live set for years to come. The true mark of a great cover song is its ability to fool the listener into believing it's not a cover at all; by this measure, Roxy Music's take on 'Like A Hurricane' undoubtedly earns its crown as one of the greatest covers of all time, a testament to their ability to take a song on a new journey.

The 'Taxi' Album: A Detailed Itinerary

The re-issue of 'Taxi' is a welcome return for an album that encapsulates Bryan Ferry’s singular vision as an interpreter of song. The album itself, a carefully curated collection of covers, acts as a musical taxi, transporting listeners through a diverse landscape of genres and eras. Produced by Bryan Ferry himself alongside the renowned British guitarist Robin Trower, 'Taxi' features a formidable cast of supporting musicians who contributed to its rich and polished sound. This ensemble included the exceptional talents of Nathan East on bass, Steve Ferrone on drums, and the soulful vocals of Carleen Anderson, each adding their unique touch to the album’s sophisticated tapestry.

The re-issued vinyl of ‘Taxi’ will also be available in the USA as a special ‘Record Store Day’ Black Friday release on 25th November, exclusively through independent record stores, providing a unique opportunity for collectors and fans across the Atlantic to acquire this special edition. As we revisit this album, it’s worth noting the personal dedication it carries: “For my mother Mary Ann Ferry 1909 – 1991,” a touching tribute that adds another layer of depth to the artistic journey.

'Taxi' Album Track List: Your Musical Route Map

Each track on 'Taxi' is a destination in itself, showcasing Ferry’s curatorial genius and his ability to make these songs entirely his own. From the pre-production stages at Studio One, London, to its eventual release, the album was a labour of love, meticulously crafted to ensure every note served its purpose in this grand musical journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bryan Ferry and 'Taxi'

Q: Who is Bryan Ferry?
A: Bryan Ferry is a highly influential British singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of the art rock band Roxy Music. He also has a highly successful solo career, celebrated for his distinctive vocal style, sophisticated approach to music, and his masterful interpretations of classic songs.

Q: What is Roxy Music?
A: Roxy Music was a pioneering British art rock band formed in 1970. Known for their experimental sound, flamboyant style, and innovative album artwork, they were a significant force in the glam rock movement and later evolved into a more polished, sophisticated sound. Key members included Bryan Ferry, Brian Eno, Phil Manzanera, and Andy Mackay.

Q: What is the significance of Roxy Music's cover of Neil Young's 'Like A Hurricane'?
A: Roxy Music's 1982 cover of 'Like A Hurricane' is considered a landmark example of their evolved musicality. It showcased their ability to transform a straightforward rock song into a complex, richly textured piece, demonstrating their growth as musicians beyond their early glam rock image. It's often cited as one of the greatest cover versions of all time.

Q: What year did Bryan Ferry's 'Taxi' album come out?
A: Bryan Ferry's 'Taxi' album was initially released in March 1993. It is being re-issued for the first time on November 25th, 2022, to mark its upcoming 30th anniversary.

Q: What songs did 'Taxi' (the album) feature as covers?
A: The 'Taxi' album features Bryan Ferry's interpretations of several notable songs, including Screamin' Jay Hawkins’ 'I Put A Spell On You', Goffin and King’s 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow', and Lou Reed’s 'All Tomorrow’s Parties'. The album also includes two original tracks by Bryan Ferry, 'Taxi' and 'Because You're Mine'.

Q: Where can I find the re-issued 'Taxi' album?
A: The 'Taxi' re-issue is available from November 25th, 2022, on limited edition yellow vinyl and CD. In the USA, the vinyl will also be available as a special ‘Record Store Day’ Black Friday release on the same date, exclusively through independent record stores. Pre-order information was previously available via a link not included in this article.

Bryan Ferry's 'Taxi' album, much like a reliable cab, offers a compelling ride through a curated selection of musical landscapes. It’s a testament to his enduring artistry, his skill in navigating and reinterpreting diverse musical terrains, and his ability to transport listeners on an unforgettable sonic journey. As this iconic album returns, it invites us once again to step inside and let the music take us wherever it may.

If you want to read more articles similar to Bryan Ferry's 'Taxi': Unpacking a Musical Journey, you can visit the Taxis category.