: In 1968, he contracted a near-fatal bout of tuberculosis. During his year-long recovery, he underwent a period of deep introspection and began writing songs that were more personal and acoustic-driven. catstevens.com The Folk-Rock Golden Era (1970–1974)
Look for frequency cutoffs above 22.05 kHz (for 44.1kHz FLAC) or 48 kHz (for 96kHz FLAC). Lossy upscales show sharp high‑frequency cuts at 16 kHz or 20 kHz.
Often sourced from HDtracks, Qobuz, or ProStudioMasters. These high-resolution files offer a closer approximation of the original analog master tapes, revealing micro-details in the acoustic guitar picking and cymbal decays. Checklist for Upgrading Your Library
Discovered by manager/producer Mike Hurst, Cat Stevens began his career as an upbeat, pop-folk artist with baroque instrumentation. Matthew and Son (1967), New Masters (1967)
The album that redefined his sound into raw, stripped-back folk. Audio Update: Look for the 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition FLAC, which offers a stunningly clean remaster of "Lady D'Arbanville." cat stevens discography flac upd
A cornerstone album often found in 24-bit/192kHz, which brings unmatched clarity to "Where Do The Children Play?" and "Father & Son".
Hear the distinct wood-and-string resonance of his Gibson acoustic guitars.
His most celebrated era (1970–1978) has been meticulously remastered and is widely available in through high-res retailers like Qobuz .
As of Spring 2026, three major updates have changed the landscape: : In 1968, he contracted a near-fatal bout of tuberculosis
Use or Fakin' The Funk to verify any FLAC you obtain (even from stores – sometimes stores sell upsampled MP3s). True Cat Stevens FLAC from analogue tapes will show frequency content naturally rolling off near 22kHz (for 44.1kHz) or 48kHz (for hi-res).
| Store | Availability | FLAC up to | Notes | |-------|--------------|-------------|-------| | | Full catalog (1967–1978 + Yusuf albums) | 24‑bit / 192 kHz | Best for high‑res. Offers Foreigner in 24/96. | | HDtracks | Most studio albums | 24‑bit / 96 kHz | Lacks Numbers in high‑res. | | 7digital | All albums, often discounted | 16‑bit / 44.1 kHz | Good for CD‑quality FLAC. | | Presto Music | Classic albums | 24‑bit / 192 kHz | Excellent metadata, no DRM. |
This adventurous era includes the soul-influenced Foreigner , the conceptual Numbers , and his final secular album of the century, Back to Earth .
Typically 16-bit / 44.1kHz (CD Quality). Clean and well-balanced. Completing the full discography efficiently. Super High Material SACD transfers converted to FLAC. Warm, analog-like playback preferred by audiophiles. 4. How to Verify and Play Your Lossless Files Lossy upscales show sharp high‑frequency cuts at 16
Reissued in remastered FLAC (2021).
The core discography is essential. These albums have received the most attention in high-resolution remasters.
The safest, highest-quality source for Cat Stevens in FLAC is: