Discovering new music is an exciting experience and one that can be both rewarding and challenging. One band in particular who has a rich history of success, despite facing several personal challenges along the way, is INXS. Considered to be Australia’s most successful pop/rock group of all time, this iconic 1980s rock band made an impressive global impact with their compelling blend of funk-infused melodies and evocative lyrics. In this blog post, we'll take a look at why critics have slammed the group's prolific output in some places and why many others still remain passionate about them today - diving into what makes INXS stand out from other groups operating during their heyday.
For music lovers, discovering new artists and bands can be an exciting experience. The magic of discovering new music lies in immersing yourself in something new and thrilling, expanding your musical taste and exploring new genres and sounds. One band that stands out in this regard is INXS, a 1980s icon that had a major impact on pop and rock globally. Despite facing several challenges, the band still managed to become Australia's most successful pop/rock group of all time. This blog post will dive into why INXS continues to be an important group to listen to and will explore what makes them such a standout act from the 80s.
INXS was formed in 1977 in Sydney, Australia, by brothers Tim, Jon, and Andrew Farriss. Along with the addition of guitarist Kirk Pengilly, bassist Garry Gary Beers, and most notably, lead singer Michael Hutchence, the band quickly found success both locally and internationally. The group's melancholic sound, mixed with pop and rock influences, resonated with fans all over the world, leading to sold-out concerts and multi-platinum album sales. Although their recipe of funky rhythms, provocative lyrics and rock energy earned them multiple awards, including three American Music Awards, critics would slam them as mediocre, accusing the band of sounding too much like their contemporaries in the pop-rock genre. Despite this, INXS would go on to defy the naysayers and gain a massive following worldwide.
INXS' 1987 album Kick, is arguably their most groundbreaking and definitive record. With hits such as Need You Tonight and New Sensation, the album showcased the band's unique sound and the power of anthemic pop-rock music. However, what sets INXS apart from other groups operating during their heyday is their willingness to experiment with different genres. From soulful ballads to gritty rockers, INXS was never afraid to try new things. Their ability to reinvent themselves and evolve their sound with every album is a testament to their versatility as musicians.
INXS' success story wasn't without tragedy, as lead singer Michael Hutchence died in 1997, leaving the group emotionally scarred and uncertain about the future. Despite the loss of their charismatic frontman, the rest of the band continued to record and tour for many years afterward. Even though the band has since disbanded, INXS' music continues to resonate with fans all over the world.
Many younger listeners may not be familiar with INXS' discography, but their contribution to the pop-rock genre cannot be overstated. Their music is pure and energetic, reflecting the 80s vibe while managing to maintain relevance and timelessness. For those who want to explore INXS, we highly recommend starting with their greatest hits, such as Mystify, Devil Inside, and Never Tear Us Apart. Each song carries a unique essence, providing a tantalizing new listening experience with every track.
INXS will always hold a special place in the musical landscape of the 80s and beyond. Their contributions to pop-rock music have been immense, inspiring future generations of musicians and exciting listeners all over the world. Their legacy is a testament to their ability to evolve with each album, and their sound continues to resonate with audiences to this day. For music fans looking to expand their musical horizons, INXS' discography is a must-listen - offering a mix of melancholy ballads and energetic rock anthems that are hard to resist. Overall, INXS remains one of the most important and dynamic pop/rock groups of all time, and their music is sure to continue standing the test of time.
