The Essential cover

The Essential

Nik Kershaw · 2000

74 min · 18 tracks · new wave · pop rock · R&B

A nostalgic blend of synth-pop and new wave, highlighting emotional depth and catchy melodies.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • nostalgic sing-alongs with friends
  • dynamic peaks and valleys
  • catchy melodies for road trips
  • emotional reflections during downtime
  • danceable rhythms for gatherings

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek minimalistic soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2000, 'The Essential' serves as a retrospective compilation of Nik Kershaw's influential work from the 1980s and 1990s. At this point in his career, Kershaw was transitioning away from the mainstream spotlight after his initial success with hits like 'Wouldn't It Be Good.' This album showcases both his chart-topping singles and deeper cuts, providing a comprehensive overview of his artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors
Howard Jones· a-ha· Duran Duran

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Wouldn't It Be Good 4:32
  • 2 I Won't Let the Sun Go Down on Me 3:22
  • 3 Dancing Girls 3:37
  • 4 The Riddle 3:54
  • 5 Wide Boy 3:19
  • 6 Nobody Knows 4:07
  • 7 One Step Ahead 3:48
  • 8 Human Racing 4:18
  • 9 Don Quixote 4:09
  • 10 Drum Talk 3:04
  • 11 Shame on You 3:32
  • 12 Bogart 4:41
  • 13 When a Heart Beats 4:15
  • 14 Wild Horses 4:00
  • 15 Gone to Pieces 3:09
  • 16 Radio Musicola 5:38
  • 17 Cloak and Dagger 4:50
  • 18 Save the Whale 5:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata