"Stage" is David Bowie's second live album, capturing performances from his Isolar II Tour. Released in 1978, it features a mix of tracks from his recent albums, highlighting Bowie's dynamic stage presence and the innovative sound of his live shows during that era.
The album includes iconic songs like "Heroes," "Fame," and "Rebel Rebel," showcasing his ability to blend rock with theatricality. Initially released through RCA Records, Stage has seen multiple reissues, often with expanded track listings that provide a fuller experience of the concert.
The live recordings reflect the energy and experimentation of Bowie's performances, which were marked by elaborate staging and a talented backing band.
Stage was recorded during David Bowie's Isolar II Tour in late April and early May 1978, featuring performances from concerts in Philadelphia, Providence, and Boston. The album prominently showcases tracks from his recent works, including Station to Station, Low, and "Heroes", while also incorporating five songs from his earlier masterpiece, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.
The live band for this album was notable for its diversity, including guitarist Adrian Belew, electric violinist Simon House, and keyboardist Roger Powell, all of whom would later collaborate with Bowie on his next studio album, Lodger. The core members—Carlos Alomar, Dennis Davis, and George Murray—remained integral to Bowie's sound.
In the 2005 CD reissue liner notes, producer Tony Visconti shared insights on the recording techniques used for the album. He explained that the more ambient tracks were captured through a direct electronic feed, minimizing audience noise, as American crowds were often eager for the rock songs, contrasting with the more patient Australian audiences.
