Is Select a good place to start with Kim Wilde?

Yes, Select is recommended as a starting point for new Kim Wilde listeners. A vibrant blend of synth-pop and new wave, infused with upbeat melodies and catchy hooks that define early '80s pop culture. Released on May 10, 1982, Select is Kim Wilde's second album, following her successful self-titled debut in 1981. At this point in her career, Wilde was transitioning from a promising newcomer to a recognized pop star, capitalizing on the momentum generated by hits like 'Kids in America'. This album solidified her presence in the music scene during the early '80s, showcasing her evolving sound and commercial appeal.

Select works well if you're into infectious energy for dancing, dynamic journey with peaks and catchy hooks for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Select?

Select has 15 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Select

Kim Wilde · 1982

59 min · 15 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of synth-pop and new wave, infused with upbeat melodies and catchy hooks that define early '80s pop culture.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cambodia — This track stands out for its haunting melody and narrative lyrics that evoke themes of longing and adventure, making it one of Wilde's most memorable songs.
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View From a Bridge — The song features an infectious chorus and showcases Wilde's vocal range, embodying the pop-rock sensibilities that define much of the album.
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Ego Start here — As the opening track, 'Ego' sets an energetic tone for the album with its driving beat and assertive lyrics, reflecting Wilde's confident artistic persona.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a blend of catchy pop melodies and synth-driven arrangements typical of its era.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent tempo, while the second half introduces slower songs that create a noticeable shift in energy.
Several tracks utilize layered synths and prominent bass lines, characteristic of early '80s new wave, with hooks that often repeat throughout the choruses.
The track 'Cambodia' stands out with its cinematic arrangement and narrative lyrics, contrasting with the more straightforward pop structures of surrounding songs.

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: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

infectious energy for dancing
dynamic journey with peaks
catchy hooks for sing-alongs
for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective tracks
seek minimalist soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Select solidified Kim Wilde's reputation with hits and strong chart performance.
Themes: Cambodian landscapes· synth-driven nostalgia· pop culture escapism
Career context: Released on May 10, 1982, Select is Kim Wilde's second album, following her successful self-titled debut in 1981. At this point in her career, Wilde was transitioning from a promising newcomer to a recognized pop star, capitalizing on the momentum generated by hits like 'Kids in America'. This album solidified her presence in the music scene during the early '80s, showcasing her evolving sound and commercial appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: Cyndi Lauper· Debbie Gibson· Erasure