What makes True Colours by Level 42 notable?

True Colours achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and featuring the hit single Hot Water, which peaked at No. 6. The album was critically acclaimed for its sophisticated arrangements and showcased the band's ability to blend genres, influencing the sophisti-pop movement that emerged in the era. Released on October 1, 1984, True Colours is Level 42's fourth studio album and marks their commercial peak following the success of their hit singles from previous albums. By this point, they had established a distinctive sound characterized by intricate bass lines and catchy melodies, further solidifying their place in the UK music scene during the mid-1980s.

Who is True Colours for?

True Colours works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on True Colours?

True Colours has 9 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Released 42 years ago this October

True Colours

Level 42 · 1984

45 min · 9 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of jazz-funk and new wave rhythms infused with pop sensibilities and lyrical depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hot Water — This track exemplifies Level 42's signature groove with its infectious beat and thought-provoking lyrics, addressing themes of personal struggle and resilience.
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The Chant Has Begun — Opening the album, this song sets a dynamic tone with its rhythmic complexity and layered instrumentals, showcasing the band's jazz-funk roots.
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Seven Days — This track’s contemplative lyrics paired with a melodic structure highlight the band's lyrical sophistication while maintaining an engaging groove.

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 sophisticated arrangements and a unique blend of genres, marking Level 42's peak period.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature intricate bass lines and layered synths, creating a rich sonic texture that blends jazz-funk with pop elements.
The sequencing includes a notable shift in mood with 'Hot Water' positioned as the fourth track, which serves as the album's commercial highlight.

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

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
layered, dense sonic textures
steady, consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on October 1, 1984, True Colours is Level 42's fourth studio album and marks their commercial peak following the success of their hit singles from previous albums. By this point, they had established a distinctive sound characterized by intricate bass lines and catchy melodies, further solidifying their place in the UK music scene during the mid-1980s.
Stylistic neighbors: Jamiroquai· Earth, Wind & Fire· Chic