Changesbowie

Covering the years between Bowie's haunting 1969 breakthrough "Space Oddity" and 1984's hip-swinging, sax-driven "Blue Jean," this 18-track compilation is both ideal for newcomers and a handy distillation for longtime fans. The chronological set charts Bowie's evolution from the earnest singer/songwriter ballad "Changes" through the sci-fi glam provocations of "Ziggy Stardust" and the swaggering attitude of "Rebel Rebel." The stylish R&B of "Young Americans" and art-rock majesty of "Heroes" fit perfectly with the downtown grind of "Fashion" and the brilliantly moody "Let's Dance."