What makes Shiver by Jenny Morris notable?

The album's lead single 'She Has to Be Loved' achieved significant commercial success, reaching high positions on the charts in Australia and New Zealand. 'Shiver' is notable for its introspective approach and is often credited with influencing the pop soundscape of the late 80s in New Zealand. When 'Shiver' was released in 1989, Jenny Morris was transitioning from her role as a backing vocalist for Crowded House to a solo artist. This album marked her debut, following the success of her earlier singles, establishing her presence in the New Zealand music scene.

How many songs are on Shiver?

Shiver has 10 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Shiver

Jenny Morris · 1989

33 min · 10 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of new wave and pop, infused with introspective lyrics and catchy melodies that resonate deeply.

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Top tracks — play these first

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She Has to Be Loved — This track became a defining hit for Morris, showcasing her powerful vocal delivery and emotional depth while addressing themes of love and longing.
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Bag Lady — With its catchy melody and thoughtful lyrics, this song captures the struggles of self-identity and societal expectations, reflecting Morris's lyrical prowess.
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Land of the Long White Cloud / Aotearoa — This track stands out for its cultural resonance, paying homage to New Zealand's identity and landscape, blending personal sentiment with national pride.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout depth or uniqueness.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, creating a rich sound texture.
The last three tracks shift to a slower tempo, allowing for a reflective conclusion to the album.

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: 5/10
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.

Tracklist

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

1 Saved Me 3:47
2 Bag Lady 3:11
3 She Has to Be Loved 4:05
4 Conscience 2:32
5 Street of Love 3:05
6 Self Deceiver 3:34
7 Little Little 3:56
8 Land of the Long White Cloud / Aotearoa 3:51
9 Humanity 2:47
10 Shiver 2:54

What to play next

Listen next

Honeychild

1991

Go back to

Body & Soul

1987

Full Jenny Morris discography Artists like Jenny Morris

new wave

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata