Is True Colours a good place to start with Split Enz?

Yes, True Colours is recommended as a starting point for new Split Enz listeners. Bright melodies intertwine with theatrical arrangements, creating a whimsical yet polished soundscape that defines the band's evolving style. Released in January 1980, True Colours is Split Enz's fourth studio album and marks a significant turning point in their career. Following the experimental sounds of their earlier albums, this record solidified their identity in the new wave scene and featured a more commercial sound, leading to broader international recognition.

Who is True Colours for?

True Colours works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, bright, melodic listening experience and short, engaging track lengths.

How many songs are on True Colours?

True Colours has 11 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

True Colours

Split Enz · 1980

38 min · 11 tracks · new wave

Bright melodies intertwine with theatrical arrangements, creating a whimsical yet polished soundscape that defines the band's evolving style.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Got You Start here — This track showcases the band's catchy hooks and vibrant energy, becoming their most recognizable hit and a defining anthem of the era.
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Nobody Takes Me Seriously — With its clever lyrics and upbeat tempo, this song reflects the band's playful approach while addressing themes of self-perception and societal expectations.
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The Choral Sea — The album's closer features lush harmonies and an atmospheric arrangement, highlighting the band's progressive influences and emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

True Colours showcases eclectic arrangements and strong melodies, marking a significant moment in new wave's rise.

What we noticed

The album closes with 'The Choral Sea', which features layered harmonies and an extended instrumental section, creating a contrasting finish.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

steady, consistent energy levels
bright, melodic listening experience
short, engaging track lengths
mid-tempo reflective moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked Split Enz's international breakthrough and wider recognition.
Themes: New Zealand pop scene· playful social commentary· colorful storytelling
Moods: Uplifting· Dreamy
Career context: Released in January 1980, True Colours is Split Enz's fourth studio album and marks a significant turning point in their career. Following the experimental sounds of their earlier albums, this record solidified their identity in the new wave scene and featured a more commercial sound, leading to broader international recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: Crowded House· XTC· The B-52's