INXS

INXS is an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1977. They achieved worldwide fame in the 1980s and 1990s with their blend of new wave, rock, and funk. Known for their charismatic frontman Michael Hutchence, the band’s energetic performances and hit songs have left a lasting impact on the music industry. Here is a detailed overview of the band, including their formation, members, musical style, and discography:

Formation

INXS was originally formed as The Farriss Brothers in 1977 by Tim Farriss, Andrew Farriss, Jon Farriss, Garry Gary Beers, and Kirk Pengilly. Michael Hutchence joined the band shortly thereafter. They changed their name to INXS in 1979. The name INXS is pronounced “in excess” and was inspired by English band XTC and Australian jam makers IXL.

Members

Classic Lineup:

1. Michael Hutchence – Lead vocals (1977–1997)
2. Tim Farriss – Lead guitar (1977–2012)
3. Andrew Farriss – Keyboards, guitar (1977–2012)
4. Jon Farriss – Drums, percussion (1977–2012)
5. Garry Gary Beers – Bass guitar (1977–2012)
6. Kirk Pengilly – Guitar, saxophone, backing vocals (1977–2012)

Later Members:

• Jon Stevens – Lead vocals (2002–2003)
• J.D. Fortune – Lead vocals (2005–2011)
• Ciaran Gribbin – Lead vocals (2011–2012)

Musical Style

INXS’s music is characterized by its blend of rock, new wave, funk, and dance elements. They are known for their catchy melodies, dynamic rhythms, and the charismatic vocal delivery of Michael Hutchence. The band’s sound evolved over the years, incorporating more electronic and pop influences, but always maintaining a strong rock foundation.

Discography

Studio Albums

1. INXS (1980) – Their debut album, featuring tracks like “Just Keep Walking.”
2. Underneath the Colours (1981) – Including “Stay Young” and “Night of Rebellion.”
3. Shabooh Shoobah (1982) – Featuring “The One Thing” and “Don’t Change.”
4. The Swing (1984) – Known for “Original Sin” and “I Send a Message.”
5. Listen Like Thieves (1985) – Including “What You Need” and “Listen Like Thieves.”
6. Kick (1987) – Their breakthrough album with hits like “Need You Tonight,” “Devil Inside,” “New Sensation,” and “Never Tear Us Apart.”
7. X (1990) – Featuring “Suicide Blonde,” “Disappear,” and “Bitter Tears.”
8. Welcome to Wherever You Are (1992) – Including “Heaven Sent” and “Not Enough Time.”
9. Full Moon, Dirty Hearts (1993) – Featuring “The Gift” and “Please (You Got That…).”
10. Elegantly Wasted (1997) – Known for the title track “Elegantly Wasted.”
11. Switch (2005) – Featuring “Pretty Vegas” with J.D. Fortune on vocals.
12. Original Sin (2010) – A reimagining of their classic hits with various guest vocalists.

Compilations and Live Albums

• Live Baby Live (1991) – A live album capturing their energetic performances.
• Greatest Hits (1994) – A compilation of their biggest hits.
• The Best of INXS (2002) – Another comprehensive collection of their best-known songs.
• Live at Barker Hangar (2022) – A live album showcasing their 1993 performance in California.

Legacy

INXS is celebrated for their ability to blend rock, pop, and dance music into a unique and infectious sound. Their success in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly with the album “Kick,” solidified their status as one of the leading bands of their era. Michael Hutchence’s charismatic stage presence and distinctive voice were central to the band’s appeal.

The band’s influence extends beyond their commercial success, inspiring numerous artists in rock, pop, and alternative music. Despite Hutchence’s tragic death in 1997, INXS has maintained a loyal fan base and continued to tour and release music with different vocalists.

Their legacy is marked by their energetic performances, memorable hits, and the ability to innovate and adapt their sound over time. INXS remains a significant and influential figure in the history of rock music.