"The Sensual World" is the sixth studio album by English singer-songwriter Kate Bush, released on October 16, 1989, by EMI Records. The album entered and peaked at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and has been certified Platinum by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
The title track draws inspiration from James Joyce's modernist novel Ulysses, specifically Molly Bloom's soliloquy. When the Joyce estate denied access to the text, Bush crafted original lyrics that reflect the essence of the passage, where Molly steps out of the book into the real world. The song features Irish instrumentation and a breathy delivery that echoes the original's themes.
Several tracks, including "Deeper Understanding," "Never Be Mine," and "Rocket's Tail," feature backing vocals from the Bulgarian ensemble Trio Bulgarka. "Heads We're Dancing" incorporates a characteristic fretless bassline from Mick Karn, while "This Woman's Work," originally from the film She's Having a Baby, was also included, gaining renewed popularity after being featured in various TV shows.
Released as CD players gained popularity, the original LP ends with "This Woman's Work," while the CD includes "Walk Straight Down the Middle" as a bonus track. Bush also released a video collection titled The Sensual World: The Videos, showcasing music videos for the title track and others.
In May 2011, Bush released Director's Cut, featuring reworked versions of several songs, including the title track, now titled "Flower of the Mountain," for which she finally received permission from the Joyce estate. The new version incorporates the original soliloquy, marking a significant connection to the source material.
In November 2018, remastered box sets of Bush's studio albums, including The Sensual World, were released, celebrating her enduring legacy in music.
In December 1989, Robert Smith of The Cure named "The Sensual World" as his favorite single of the year and the album The Sensual World as his favorite album. He also included "all of Kate Bush" in his list of "the best things about the Eighties." Additionally, Charli XCX has cited The Sensual World as one of the records that defines her, highlighting its lasting influence on artists across generations. Bush's innovative sound and lyrical depth have continued to resonate with musicians and fans alike, solidifying her place in music history.
