:: INXS - Switch

INXS

It‘s finally here, a long overdue return album by the legendary Australian band. It's their first album since the death of Michael Hutchence over eight years ago. After much procrastination in the search for a replacement of sorts, they undertook an “Instant Rockstar” process and found a new singer J D Fortune, from Canada. The band quickly got into gear and started writing songs. The comparisons of the Hutchence/post-Hutchence era will linger. The first test for the new INXS was the release of first single 'Pretty Vegas’, quite a lively and energetic tune that was well arranged. However, the rest of the album is patchy in terms of delivering an INXS-like quality. A couple of worthy tracks are ‘Remember Your Man’ and ‘Hot Girls’. They are infectious enough to perhaps grab radio attention. Even though J D is a good singer with enterprise, it will be difficult for the band to find a whole new voice that will connect to old fans and find new ones. It is had to gauge what direction they are looking for because of the different styles shown now, which is somewhat disappointing considering how seasoned these musicians are. We probably should allow this famous Australian band some leeway because of the difficult adjustment, but their staying power will be tested unless J D and co. create some inspiring tunes next time.