INXS-Kick (1987)

Until the release of their sixth album, the Australian band INXS, despite not always receiving critical acclaim, had a large and devoted fanbase that propelled them to stardom in the late 1980s. The core lineup consisted of brothers Andrew, Jon, and Tim Farriss keyboardist, drummer, and guitarist, respectively who, along with Kirk Pengilly (guitar), Garry Gray Beers (bass), and Michael Hutchence (vocals), had formed INXS in the late 1970s. In their early days, the band played a new wave style with pop-rock influences, which evolved over time towards arena rock. With their fifth album, "Listen Like Thieves" (1985), they achieved mainstream and commercial recognition thanks to tracks like "What You Need", but it was with their next album, "Kick", that they cemented their global success. This was due to their mature songwriting, showcasing a blend of hard-hitting rock with hints of commercial pop and new wave. After impeccable production, clear musical intentions, and powerful, expertly executed songs, the Australian group delivered a work that would soon achieve massive commercial success, selling over 25 million copies worldwide. Songs like the catchy "New Sensation", the brilliant "Never Tear Us Apart", the Stones-esque "Devil Inside", the powerful rock anthem "Mystify", and the captivating "Need You Tonight" made INXS a band that resonated with mainstream audiences. Following this album came others of similar success such as "X" (1990), "Welcome To Wherever You Are" (1992), and "Full Moon, Dirty Hearts" (1993), all of which maintained a high standard. However, the suicide of their singer, Michael Hutchence, at the end of 1997, resulted in the group losing its identity and, at the same time, a decline in public fervor.