INXS: "Kick"

Join me on a journey through the transformative power of music as we explore the magic of INXS’ “Kick”. Let the rhythms and melodies transport you to a world of boundless possibilities.

(Originally Posted to Substack)

INXS: "Kick"

Artist: INXS
Album: Kick
Release Year: 1987
Genre: Rock, Pop, Funk, Dance-Rock
Musical vibe: Upbeat, Electric, Energizing, Infectious

The music world is filled with an endless sea of genres and styles that are waiting to be explored. As a DJ, I’ve always believed that there’s something out there for everyone, and the magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone and discover new artists and sounds. This is precisely what happened to me when I first heard the iconic album Kick by the legendary Australian band INXS.

Released in 1987, Kick was a game-changer that shattered the boundaries of conventional rock music and created an entirely new soundscape that was impossible to ignore. The album was a culmination of INXS’s years of experience and experimentation and marked a significant shift in their sound, catapulting them to international stardom and cementing their place in music history.

As a “cool” teenager, I was exclusively listening to harder artists like Metallica and Megadeth in the late 80s. Somehow I became obsessed with INXS Kick. Songs like “New Sensation,” “Devil Inside,” and “Need You Tonight” resonated with me on a personal level, and it wasn’t long before I became a lifelong fan of the band.

The Songs

While some of the songs on the album don’t stand the test of time, “Kick” has a place in my heart and musical collection.

“New Sensation”: This was a song that perfectly captured the essence of INXS’s sound. With its infectious groove and soaring vocals, “New Sensation” was a massive hit that helped propel the album to new heights.
“Devil Inside”: This track was a darker and more introspective song that dealt with themes of temptation and sin. It was a perfect showcase of Michael Hutchence’s vocal range and showed the band’s versatility and ability to create music that was both thought-provoking and catchy.
“Need You Tonight”: Perhaps the most iconic song on the album, “Need You Tonight” was a massive hit that dominated the charts and helped INXS gain international fame. The song’s pulsating bassline and sultry vocals made it an instant classic that still sounds fresh and relevant to this day.
“Mystify”: The final song on the album was a slower and more romantic ballad that showcased the band’s softer side. With its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Mystify” was a beautiful song that left a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.

The Impact

The impact of INXS’s “Kick” was felt far and wide in the music world, inspiring numerous artists who came after them. Let us take a moment to reflect on the many musicians who were influenced by this timeless classic.

First, let us consider the genre of dance-rock, which “Kick” so effortlessly embodies. Its pulsing beats, shimmering synths, and infectious hooks proved to be a major influence on the likes of Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, and New Order, all of whom would go on to make their own contributions to the dance-rock canon.

But the reach of “Kick” did not stop there. Its blend of rock and pop elements also inspired countless artists in the realms of alternative and indie rock. Take a listen to bands like The Killers, Franz Ferdinand, or Arctic Monkeys, and you will hear the echoes of “Kick” reverberating through their soundscapes.

In fact, one could argue that “Kick” paved the way for the entire Britpop movement that would sweep across the UK in the 1990s. Groups like Oasis, Blur, and Pulp all drew inspiration from INXS’s infectious melodies and catchy choruses.

It’s also worth noting that the album’s incorporation of funk and soul elements was ahead of its time, and would later influence artists in the worlds of hip-hop and R&B. Even the likes of Jay-Z and Beyoncé have cited INXS as an influence on their music.

It’s a testament to the enduring power of “Kick” that it continues to inspire artists across genres and generations. Its impact on music cannot be overstated, and its legacy lives on to this day.

Ranking "Kick" by INXS

On to the ranking. INXSis an enigma for me. It was an important album for me as a teenager but it faded into obscurity as I moved onto hip-hop and grunge in the 90s. Many of the big songs still get me dancing and I’ll play them at any 80s dance party.

For now, I’m placing “Kick” by INXS at number 7 on my chart, but I have a feeling it will fall well down the charts as more albums are added to the list. Still, don’t sleep on “Kick” and give the album a listen today.

Thanks for Reading Music Made Me

As I bring this review to a close, my heart swells with admiration for the transformative power of music. “Kick” has etched its mark on the music world with indelible ink that refuses to fade, even after all these years. It stands as a testament to the universality of music, and its ability to transcend the confines of genre, geography, and time.

This album has inspired countless artists and musicians, leaving an undeniable impact on the world of music. Its influence has been felt far and wide, from rock and roll stadiums to the dance floors of clubs and festivals around the world. And as I listen to it once more, I’m reminded of the sheer brilliance of its creators.

It’s been an honor and a privilege to take this journey through the “Kick” album. From the melodic rhythms to the passionate vocals, each note has left an imprint on my soul that I’ll never forget.

So, let us celebrate the power of music, a force that transcends all boundaries, connects us on a deeper level, and brings us together in a shared experience. And to all the artists and musicians out there, keep pouring your hearts and souls into your craft. We, your fans, are forever grateful for the boundless possibilities of human expression that you bring to our lives.

In conclusion, let us all embrace the transformative power of music, now and forever.