Expert: Lee Bastian - 5/12/2005

Question
Do you know of an album/tape by Kate Bush that was played to me by a friend several times in early 1980's which had no title on the tape, and no track list. It was very different to the usual Kate sound, mostly/all with a strong aboriginal influence. I have been looking for it for the last twenty years! Can you help at all, or suggest someone who may be able to help, or somewhere else I can look?
Thanks, Jain

Answer
    Hello Jain and thanks for your question.I'm afraid it may be outside my area of expertise.There are various demo tapes and bootlegs that I've heard about but thay must be very difficult to find(at least here in Ottawa,Canada).
    I have tried securing copies of demos,etc. through eBay but I keep getting outbid at the last minute.I'd love to get a hold of these.Anyway,with the lack of title and track list,it must have been a bootleg as opposed to a authorized demo recording.
    Was the recording quality a bit lower than standard?I've heard that some demo tapes were copied from recordings Kate did at home when she was just a child.It is unusual that you mention a strong Aboriginal influence.As far as I've heard,her demos were mostly rough versions of songs appearing on later studio albums.
    As far as other places to look I do suggest looking on eBay.I've seen several there,some with track listings that may jar your memory if the titles sound like something you heard on that tape twenty years ago.Also try a web site called GAFFAWEB.It is the ultimate web site for all things Kate and has links to many other Kate sites.Also the site called CLOUDBUSTING:KATE BUSH IN HER OWN WORDS may be of some assistance.
    For me,you've now inspired me to step up my search for the rare Kate demos and/or bootlegs that are out there.Sorry I couldn't be of more help but my expertise lies mainly with Kate's studio recordings and general knowledge about Kate herself.Thank you again for your question and good luck with your quest.If you've been looking for twenty years then it must be difficult stuff to get a hold of.But I will still be searching.Have a great day!!