"The Dreaming" is the fourth studio album by English singer-songwriter Kate Bush, released on September 13, 1982. Known for its experimental and uncommercial style, the album was produced entirely by Bush over two years. It reached No. 3 on the UK album chart and received a Silver certification, but initially sold less well and received mixed reviews. Despite this, its critical acclaim has grown over time, with NPR, Slant Magazine, and various other publications recognizing it as a significant work. It has been praised by musicians like Björk and Steven Wilson, who consider it one of their favorite albums.
Kate Bush's fourth album, The Dreaming, was a highly experimental project produced solely by Bush herself. This marked a departure from her previous work, which had involved co-producers. Embracing her newfound creative freedom, Bush utilized advanced production techniques and the Fairlight CMI digital sampler, a tool she had begun exploring on her previous album. She collaborated with engineers like Nick Launay, who replaced Hugh Padgham due to his busy schedule.
Recording for The Dreaming began in late 1980, with initial sessions for tracks like "Sat in Your Lap" influenced by a Stevie Wonder concert. The album's production was challenging and marked by Bush's struggle with writer's block. Despite a promising start with the single "Sat in Your Lap," the album's development was slow, with Bush taking breaks and resuming work into 1982.
The Dreaming is noted for its eclectic and experimental style, incorporating a wide range of musical elements, from folk instruments to complex rhythms and samples. The themes of the album are diverse, drawing inspiration from historical figures, literature, and personal experiences. Its sound has been compared to experimental post-punk, reflecting a significant shift from Bush's earlier work. The album explores complex narratives and personal introspections, highlighting Bush's quest for artistic independence and the challenges she faced.
