Donovan (album)

History

In 1976, Donovan's record contract with Epic Records came to an end with Slow Down World. The album had only achieved limited chart success, and his contract was not renewed. In the meantime, Donovan's old record producer Mickie Most launched Rak Records in the UK. Donovan and Most teamed up to record Donovan's next album on Rak Records in 1977. Arista Records picked up the distribution rights in the US.

In a distinct change from Slow Down World, the songs on Donovan were an attempt to reach mass audiences again. The songs feature a contemporary sound and, with the exception of "Maya's Dance", generally avoid the gentle balladry of Donovan's previous work. Despite these measures, Donovan failed to chart in both the US and UK, and signalled the end of Donovan's attempts to reach a mainstream audience. He would not release another original album in the United States until 1984.

Reissues

Track listing

All tracks by Donovan Leitch.

Side one

1. "Local Boy Chops Wood" – 3:11
2. "Astral Angel" – 4:37
3. "The Light" – 4:12
4. "Dare to Be Different" – 3:55
5. "Brave New World" – 4:44

Side two

1. "Lady of the Stars" – 3:02
2. "International Man" – 4:02
3. "Sing My Song" – 3:08
4. "Maya's Dance" – 3:45
5. "Kalifornia Kiddies" – 3:49

Side one

1. "Brave New World" – 4:44
2. "Astral Angel" – 4:37
3. "Local Boy Chops Wood" – 3:11
4. "Kalifornia Kiddies" – 3:49
5. "The International Man" – 4:02

Side two

1. "The Light" – 4:12
2. "Sing My Song" – 3:08
3. "Lady of the Stars" – 3:02
4. "Maya's Dance" – 3:45
5. "Dare to Be Different" – 3:55

Personnel