一聽音樂網

This 1993 album is an ambitious project that does not come across as cohesive but contains some great songs. In overall sound, it reminds me of Young Americans but it is even more detached, like his plastic soul style carried to the extreme.
It opens with the semi-instrumental The Wedding, a beautiful lilting melody which is followed by You've Been Around, a song that doesn't go anywhere. The funky texture of I Feel Free makes it a worthy cover and the title track, a duet with Al B Sure, is quite engaging with its complex arrangement.

Jump They Say, Pallas Athena and Nite Flights, the Scott Walker cover, are all interesting but not really emotionally appealing. I like Miracle Goodnight with its rhythmic and vocal variety but the jazzy ballad Don't Let Me Down sounds unfocused and messy. Looking For Lester is a lively jazz instrumental and The Wedding Song is a vocal reprise of the stylish opening track.

The problem with Black Tie, White Noise, is that although pleasant to listen to, the music does not remain with you for long. With a few exceptions like the two Wedding Songs, the songs are not memorable. I recommend this album only to hardcore fans or Bowie completists.