(30-track Greatest Hits retrospective, on 2 discs/ 2002/ 'MERCURY RECORDS')
INXS never seemed to have been reeling in as much excess as bands like the randy Red Hot Chilli Peppers, though Michael Hutchence and friends did get by living the high rock 'n' roll lifestyle of dreams. And their side of the bargain was to write some mighty catchy pop songs with rock roots, my fave songs siphoned out of this posthumous greatest hits package being the tender 'Beautiful Girl,' and the sublime vibes of 'Listen Like Thieves' and 'Original Sin'� with crafty choruses to foam at the mouth for.
Were it not for Michael's tragic, mysterious death, this band of Aussie folklore would have no doubt still been packing-out stadiums the world over, even if their later work in the admirable 'Elegantly Wasted' offering failed to light the commercial fires that songs such as 'Need You Tonight,' Disappear' and 'Suicide Blonde' once did with their classic hooks. 'Never Tear Us Apart' is aided by an outstandingly atmospheric, synthesized vibe and surges of saxophone that seal its status as a brilliant love song, just like the lovely 'Baby Don't Cry' with its chant-able sweetness that puts even George Michael's 'Faith' to shame when it comes to the number of the times that the title is repeated-over within the song. Mmm, the listener won't forget that one in a hurry�
Their sound is hugely vibrant and note-perfect, owed in no small part to quality time spent recording, mixing and mastering these songs in various studios o'er the world o'er the years. In places they sound like U2, in others they sound like the sweetest, softest 'rock' band ever known when their hearts poignantly bleed on their sleeves and the swooning melodies do the talking.
Then there's the cover of Steppenwolf's 'Born To Be Wild' classic also included. For a laugh.
INXS? Not really. Though there's no denying that in their best moments their music is INTOXICATING.
What's more, CD2 contains some live takes, radio edits and videos. So if you've never ever heard of this band before, there'll never be a more perfect opportunity than this one here to cast yourself back in time, to the land of Oz from whence they came, far far away�
Go now! (STEVE RUDD)
www.inxs.com