What makes Better the Devil You Know by Kylie Minogue notable?

This album became a commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying Minogue's status as a leading figure in pop music. Its title track was particularly notable for its strong chart performance and has influenced subsequent dance-pop artists. Released in 1990, Better the Devil You Know is Kylie Minogue's third studio album, following her successful self-titled debut and the acclaimed Enjoy Yourself. At this point, Minogue was transitioning from a teen pop star into a more mature artist, embracing a sound that would solidify her place in dance music history.

How many songs are on Better the Devil You Know?

Better the Devil You Know has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Better the Devil You Know

Kylie Minogue · 1990

14 min · 3 tracks · pop music

Bright synths and buoyant rhythms create an infectious dance-pop sound that defines the early '90s club scene.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Better the Devil You Know — The title track stands out with its catchy chorus and empowering lyrics, embodying the album's essence of transformation and self-assertion.
→
I'm Over Dreaming (Over You) — This track showcases Minogue's vocal range and emotional depth, combining upbeat production with themes of liberation from unrequited love.
→
Better the Devil You Know (The Mad March Hare mix) — Offering an extended remix, this version amplifies the dance elements of the original, becoming a staple in clubs and showcasing Minogue's appeal on the dance floor.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

This single showcases strong pop elements but lacks depth and cohesion across its remixes.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent, driving beat with layered synths that create a danceable atmosphere.
The second track is a remix that extends the original's structure, adding new elements while maintaining the core melody.
The final track introduces a more melodic and softer vocal delivery, contrasting with the upbeat nature of the first two tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single helped establish Kylie's reputation in the pop music scene.
Themes: early '90s club scene· dance floor liberation
Career context: Released in 1990, Better the Devil You Know is Kylie Minogue's third studio album, following her successful self-titled debut and the acclaimed Enjoy Yourself. At this point, Minogue was transitioning from a teen pop star into a more mature artist, embracing a sound that would solidify her place in dance music history.
Stylistic neighbors: Robyn· Dua Lipa· Lady Gaga