Essential cover

Essential

Divinyls · 1991

46 min · 12 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of new wave melodies and provocative lyrics that capture the spirit of early '90s rock.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo listening experience vibrant tracks for social gatherings engaging melodies for casual moments
Context
When 'Essential' was released in 1991, Divinyls were on the cusp of their commercial peak, following their breakthrough hit 'I Touch Myself' from 1990. This album solidified their presence in the Australian rock scene, showcasing a mature sound that combined pop sensibilities with edgy themes.
If you like
new wave

Essential is an album by Divinyls, released in 1991. A vibrant blend of new wave melodies and provocative lyrics that capture the spirit of early '90s rock. The album features the hit single 'I Touch Myself,' which became a global sensation and received heavy airplay, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. 'Essential' is significant for its contribution to the new wave genre and has been influential in shaping female-fronted rock music in the early '90s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Essential sound like?

A vibrant blend of new wave melodies and provocative lyrics that capture the spirit of early '90s rock. Rooted in new wave.

What makes Essential by Divinyls notable?

The album features the hit single 'I Touch Myself,' which became a global sensation and received heavy airplay, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. 'Essential' is significant for its contribution to the new wave genre and has been influential in shaping female-fronted rock music in the early '90s. When 'Essential' was released in 1991, Divinyls were on the cusp of their commercial peak, following their breakthrough hit 'I Touch Myself' from 1990. This album solidified their presence in the Australian rock scene, showcasing a mature sound that combined pop sensibilities with edgy themes.

Who is Essential for?

Essential works well if you're into steady mid-tempo listening experience, vibrant tracks for social gatherings and engaging melodies for casual moments.

How many songs are on Essential?

Essential has 12 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·46:32

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Pleasure and Pain Standout 3:52
  • 2 Temperamental 4:30
  • 3 Back to the Wall 4:40
  • 4 Only Lonely 3:14
  • 5 Punxsie 4:15
  • 6 Don't You Go Walking 6:04
  • 7 Boys in Town Standout 2:51
  • 8 Hey Little Boy 3:23
  • 9 Science Fiction 3:32
  • 10 Sleeping Beauty 3:41
  • 11 Casual Encounter 3:06
  • 12 I'll Make You Happy 3:18

Release Date

January 1, 1991

Genre

new wave

More albums in new wave

Artist Origin

Australia

Runtime

46 min 32 sec