Kylie Minogue – Tension II Album Review
Album Info
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | October 18, 2024 |
| Duration | 37:01 |
| Genre | Pop/Rock |
| Styles | Dance-Pop, Pop, Club/Dance, Euro-Pop |
Kylie Minogue, the undisputed queen of pop and dance, surprises fans once again with her latest release, Tension II. Instead of rehashing a deluxe version of her previous album Tension, she decided to make an entirely fresh album, marking this as her official 17th studio project. Released just a year after its predecessor, Tension II continues Kylie’s early 2020s era of dancefloor dominance, offering fans more irresistible bangers to keep the energy alive.
With Tension II, Kylie remains true to her vibrant dance-pop sound, delivering a mix of catchy tunes and some deeper cuts that continue to showcase her adaptability and artistry. The album offers a balance between breezy throwbacks and hard-hitting anthems, making it a worthy addition to her impressive catalog.
A Collection of Dancefloor Hits
Tension II manages to stay true to the party-ready vibe that Kylie has maintained throughout her career. While some tracks serve as nostalgic fillers, others explode with full energy, demanding the attention of listeners. For instance, songs like “Taboo” and “Dance to the Music” bring a retro disco flair reminiscent of her earlier works, while tracks like “Lights Camera Action” and “Kiss Bang Bang” are instant party-starters, guaranteed to dominate dance playlists.
The song “Hello” stands out as a sparkling highlight, drawing comparisons to her massive hit “Padam Padam.” Its upbeat tempo and shimmering production make it one of the catchiest tunes on the album. Similarly, the neon-sheen of “Shoulda Left Ya” keeps the mood light and playful, ensuring that Tension II doesn’t lose momentum as the tracks progress.
Collaborations That Shine
Kylie Minogue has a history of pairing with well-known artists, and Tension II does not disappoint in this regard. A standout track is “My Oh My,” featuring Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo. This collaboration is a slow-grower, with the three artists exchanging playful verses, showcasing their chemistry. Fans will especially appreciate Tove Lo’s segment, where she teaches listeners the correct pronunciation of her name—a quirky and memorable moment.
A Blend of Old and New
In addition to the original tracks, Tension II includes previously released collaborations that add variety and depth to the album. These guest appearances include “Dance Alone” from Sia’s Reasonable Woman, the energetic “Midnight Ride” featuring Diplo and Orville Peck from the Stampede project, and “Edge of Saturday Night” with the Blessed Madonna. These songs, while familiar to some, fit perfectly within the album’s overall dance-heavy theme.
Final Thoughts
For long-time fans of Kylie Minogue and those looking for more of her infectious early-2020s sound, Tension II is a satisfying follow-up to her previous works. Although it may not hit the same high notes as some of her more immediate tracks from Disco and Tension, it still delivers a steady stream of hits that are guaranteed to keep you dancing.
