| Tension | ||||
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| Released | 22 September 2023 | |||
| Recorded | 2021–2023 | |||
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| Length | 35:51 | |||
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Tension is the sixteenth studio album by Australian singer Kylie Minogue. It was released on 22 September 2023 by BMG and Minogue's company, Darenote. Minogue enlisted several collaborators and producers for the album, including Richard "Biff" Stannard, Duck Blackwell, Jackson Foote, Lostboy, PhD, Cutfather, and Oliver Heldens. Originally inspired by the 1980s music and culture, she abandoned the idea and decided to make a record that emphasised each song's individuality rather than a central theme. Tension features various electronic dance genres and sounds such as pop, dance-pop, disco, electronic, and synth-pop. The lyrics to the album address themes such as love, lust, fun, and empowerment, all of which have appeared in Minogue's previous works.
Tension received critical acclaim from most music critics, many of whom praised its production quality, fun nature, Minogue’s input, and overall sound. Many critics regarded it as one of Minogue's best releases, with publications naming it one of their top picks of 2023. Commercially, it reached number one in Australia, Belgium, Scotland, and the United Kingdom, as well as on component charts in Ireland and the United States. It was certified silver by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) in the United Kingdom and has sold over half a million units worldwide, generating half a billion streams.
"Padam Padam", "Tension" and "Hold on to Now" were released as singles, while "10 Out of 10" by Heldens served as a promotional recording. "Padam Padam" became a commercial success for Minogue, gaining viral traction and cultural significance since its release. In addition, Minogue and Tension have received nominations and awards at various ceremonies. Minogue promoted the album by releasing a deluxe version, a remix album called Extension: The Extended Mixes, performing on several occasions, and holding her More Than Just a Residency concert residency in Las Vegas. Tension II, a sequel album, was released on 18 October 2024, alongside a Tension Tour to support both releases beginning in February 2025.