In order to advertise the upcoming mini-series The Last Panthers, SkyAtlantic released a trailer that includes an extended version of David Bowie’s new song “Blackstar.” The song, which is the theme to the series, is quite a weird one, but that shouldn’t come as a surprise. The extended version of the song is only about a minute longer than the version used for the show, but it feels more out-of-place when matched with footage from the series instead of the opening credit sequence.

The mix of electronic drums, bass, and synthesizers is reminiscent of early industrial rock tracks from the 1990s, but also has that distinct David Bowie flavor that one can never truly describe. The most prominent feature of the track, however, are Bowie’s electronically processed vocals, which are grating and alien.

I feel as if I have missed something, though, because I can’t quite figure out how the song really fits with the series. The Last Panthers tells a gritty story about jewel thieves and a darker underworld of European crime, but Bowie’s song feels more like the lament of a dying Dalek. I will reserve judgement until I see the show, but I am not going to assume that the dark tones of the song and show are enough to unite them.

The Last Panthers will premiere on SkyAtlantic in the UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany, and Austria on Thursday, November 12th, and on Sundance Channel in the US next year. Let us know what you think of the trailer and song in the comments below.

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HT – Pitchfork
Featured Image: RCA