There's seldom a shortage of comment about David Bowie. The last nine months have seen the publication of three new books, and there are three slated for 2011 (not to mention two further updates of existing publications, and Bowie's own book, Object: '100 fascinating items that give an insight into the life of one of the most unique music and fashion icons in history').
But what we haven't had, since 2003, has been any actual new music, save a few guest appearances and leaked snippets of three songs from 1974's Young Americans sessions. That is, until Toy, an entire album originally recorded in 2000 but subsequently shelved, was mysteriously leaked on the internet. It may not be the final version of said album, but it sounds mixed and ready to go. Quizzed about the album's sudden appearance, Bowie's office refused to comment.
Mark Plati, who worked on the album as co-producer and bandleader, told me in 2003: "Toy was recorded in New York. We rehearsed most of the tunes that would make
