Revisiting Cat Stevens’ Foreigner (1973) – A New Vinyl Reissue
While many fans know Tea for the Tillerman or Teaser and the Firecat, Foreigner marked a significant departure for Stevens in 1973. Released during the peak of progressive rock, Stevens took a bold leap by delivering The Foreigner Suite, an 18-minute epic that fills the entire first side of the record. This track showcases his signature folk style but dives deeper into intricate arrangements, lush instrumentation, and long-form composition, blending rock, jazz, and soul influences.
The album features standout contributions from top musicians, including Paul Martinez on bass and the horn section from Tower of Power. This reissue, pressed in Germany on 180g vinyl, provides a pristine listening experience. For those unfamiliar with Foreigner, this is an album that may surprise and captivate, even 50 years after its original release.
Despite initial mixed reviews, the album still found commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 16 on the US Billboard 200. The timeless nature of its sound shines through, as its unique mix of introspection and bold experimentation resonates with new listeners today.
Out now: Cat Stevens’ Foreigner – Vinyl and CD reissue available.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
