Probably the biggest thing to come out of Australia in the twentieth century other than Neighbours was the pop/rock band by the name of INXS. Charging into the Western World with their front man in the visual form of Jim Morrison from The Doors, the ill fated Michael Hutchins wowed the world with his charm, magnetism and seductive appearance leading the path form INXS to be the greatest export from down under.
Their world dominating album, Kick was released onto our ears in November 1987. In the UK it stormed its way into the charts and hung around for a massive 103 weeks. Heralding five single releases including a re issue of ‘Need You Tonight’ reaching number 2 in the UK, it seemed that the Oz band couldn’t put a foot wrong. The theme for the album was sultry, hard rock dirty lyrics and swooning, gut wrenching ballads. Produced on the Mercury label, it marked a turning point in Australian music history, putting the country firmly on the map in music.
Still priced today, only a few pounds cheaper since its original release, it has become a yard stick for bands who came after. The thundery tracks included ‘New Sensation’, ‘Devil Inside, ’ ‘Never tear Us Apart, ’ and the finger clicking effects of ‘Mystify.’
A true concept of 80’s rock, it still holds well and is regarded as one of the finest albums incorporating the 80’s rock sound. ‘Need You Tonight’ became a number 1 smash in the U.S, winning five MTV awards in 1988. This feat in itself shows the strength of the album. A prize that deserves a place in any diverse record collection. A true gem.