Kim Wilde, the British pop icon famous for hits like "Kids in America," "Chequered Love," and "You Came," has made waves once again with her latest album, "Closer." Released on January 26, 2025, the album takes listeners back to the vibrant echoes of the 1980s, showcasing Wilde's signature style.
The album, her fifteenth studio release, is described by Wilde as "truly...an absolute joy to make." She elaborates, "It feels like the natural companion to 'Close' from 1988, and I believe it serves as a perfect reflection of where I find myself today, musically speaking." Fans of her iconic sound can anticipate familiar elements—catchy melodies, powerful vocals, and generous doses of synthesizers littered throughout the album.
Opening with "Midnight Train," the album sets the stage with thick, atmospheric synthesizer soundscapes and pulsations echoed by drums reminiscent of neon lights and sparkling disco balls. The song builds up to a thrilling electric guitar solo, thrusting listeners right back to the dance floors of the '80s. The nostalgia continues with the intro to "Scorpio," which closely recalls the classic hit "Kids in America."
Wilde's collaborations also spotlight the unique blend of old and new influences. One such track is "Sorrow Replaced," featuring Midge Ure, the former Ultravox frontman known for his own string of '80s hits. This melancholic duet enriches the album’s emotional depth and serves as a reminder of the era’s glory.
Adding another layer to her artistic evolution, Wilde includes a modern piece named "Hourglass Human," featuring her niece Scarlett Wilde. With Scarlett often accompanying her on tour, this collaboration presents not just familial ties but also bridges the generational gap in pop music.
At 64, Kim Wilde proves she hasn't lost her vocal prowess, sounding remarkably similar to her younger self when "Close" first dropped over three decades ago. Despite the inevitable passage of time, her distinctive, nasal vocal style remains intact, delivering memorable pop soundscapes once again.
While the second half of "Closer"—affectionately referred to as its B-side—might evoke mixed feelings, the overall reception has been positive. Her latest work encapsulates both nostalgia and modernity, creating what many critics see as one of her more impressive late-career efforts.
Fans will also have the opportunity to experience Wilde's latest creations live, as she embarks on her European tour starting next month. The tour will span across Sweden, Belgium, France, Britain, Ireland, and Germany, allowing audiences to relive the magic of the '80s with Wilde's electrifying performances.
With "Closer," Kim Wilde not only pays homage to her past but allows her well-known musical flair to evolve, affirming her enduring presence in the pop music scene. This new album offers both fans and newcomers alike a meaningful glimpse of one of the '80s most beloved pop stars, reminding us why we fell in love with her music all those years ago.