Kate Bush – The Kick Inside (1981 UK Press)

Kate Bush – The Kick Inside (1981 UK Press)

Originally released in February 1978, The Kick Inside introduced the extraordinary songwriting talent of Kate Bush, establishing her as one of the most original and imaginative artists in British music. A remarkable debut, the album combines art pop, progressive pop, baroque influences and atmospheric rock, showcasing a distinctive musical identity that was already fully formed in her late teens.

Signed to EMI Records as a teenager, Bush attracted the attention of Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour, who helped finance and produce early demonstration recordings that brought her music to the attention of the industry. The album was subsequently produced and arranged by Andrew Powell, with Gilmour also contributing to the production of selected material. Recorded primarily at AIR Studios in London, The Kick Inside features an accomplished group of session musicians whose arrangements provide a rich musical backdrop for Bush's piano playing, expressive vocals and unusually sophisticated songwriting.

The album made an immediate impact with 'Wuthering Heights', a remarkable debut single inspired by Emily Brontë's classic novel. Its distinctive high-register vocals, dramatic delivery and unconventional melodic structure made it unlike anything else in the contemporary pop charts. The song became a UK number-one single, making Bush the first female artist to reach the top of the UK singles chart with a self-written song.

There is considerably more to the album than its best-known hit. 'The Man With The Child In His Eyes' is an exquisitely delicate piano-led ballad, demonstrating Bush's remarkable melodic sensitivity and lyrical imagination. 'Moving' opens the record with an atmospheric, almost ceremonial arrangement, while 'The Saxophone Song' combines sophisticated jazz influences with an evocative late-night mood.

'Strange Phenomena' explores unusual lyrical imagery through an infectious, rhythmically engaging arrangement, while 'Kite' showcases Bush's playful approach to melody and vocal expression. On the second side, 'James And The Cold Gun' introduces a more forceful rock sound, contrasting with the sensual atmosphere of 'Feel It' and the beautifully constructed 'Oh To Be In Love'.

Other highlights include 'L'Amour Looks Something Like You', 'Them Heavy People' and the closing title track, which draws on traditional folk influences and demonstrates the depth of Bush's storytelling abilities. Throughout the album, her remarkable vocal range, unconventional phrasing and imaginative arrangements create a world that feels entirely her own.

The Kick Inside remains a landmark debut in British art pop and progressive pop, establishing the foundations for a career that would continually challenge musical expectations. Its combination of literary influences, adventurous songwriting, expressive piano arrangements and unmistakable personality makes it essential listening for Kate Bush fans and collectors of classic British music.

An important record from the late 1970s, this UK pressing offers an opportunity to own the album that introduced one of Britain's most distinctive and influential singer-songwriters.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Moving

2. The Saxophone Song

3. Strange Phenomena

4. Kite

5. The Man With The Child In His Eyes

6. Wuthering Heights

Side B

1. James And The Cold Gun

2. Feel It

3. Oh To Be In Love

4. L'Amour Looks Something Like You

5. Them Heavy People

6. Room For The Life

7. The Kick Inside