INXS ‎– Underneath The Colours VG/G

INXS’s sophomore album, Underneath the Colours, marked a turning point for the Australian rockers. Released in 1981, it saw frontman Michael Hutchence’s songwriting begin to mature, infusing their sound with a newfound depth. While commercially less successful than their debut, the album laid the groundwork for their future international acclaim.

Underneath the Colours experimented with a broader range of influences, venturing beyond straight-up pub rock into a more textured soundscape. Traces of new wave and even post-punk can be heard amidst the driving guitars and Hutchence’s charismatic vocals. The album wasn’t without its challenges for the band, however. They felt pressure to deliver a strong follow-up to their debut, and the recording process reflected this tension.

Despite these hurdles, Underneath the Colours holds a special place in the INXS discography. Tracks like “Stay Young” and the title track showcased their evolving sound, while “Night of Rebellion” hinted at the anthemic rock that would define their later work. It’s a captivating glimpse into a band on the cusp of greatness, brimming with potential and ready to take the world by storm.