What makes Dekadance by INXS notable?

Dekadance is significant for its role in popularizing extended dance mixes during the early '80s, reflecting the burgeoning club culture of the time. This compilation not only reached commercial success but also helped INXS gain international recognition, paving the way for their future hits. Released in September 1983, Dekadance followed INXS's breakthrough album Shabooh Shoobah and solidified their presence in the music scene by showcasing extended versions of their most popular tracks. This album served as a bridge between their early sound and the more polished, commercially successful direction they would take in the late '80s.

How many songs are on Dekadance?

Dekadance has 4 tracks, running approximately 21 minutes.

Dekadance

INXS · 1983

21 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and new wave, layered with infectious grooves and dynamic melodies that invite movement.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Black and White (extended version) — This track exemplifies INXS's signature blend of rock and dance elements, featuring an addictive bassline that drives the rhythm forward while maintaining lyrical introspection.
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The One Thing (extended version) — With its pulsating beats and soaring vocals, this track captures the essence of early '80s new wave while showcasing the band's ability to create anthemic choruses.
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To Look at You (extended version) — The extended version enhances its already rich instrumentation, creating a lush soundscape that highlights the band's funk influences and Michael Hutchence's charismatic delivery.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases extended dance mixes that reflect the era's club culture, but lacks depth in songwriting.

What we noticed

All four tracks are extended versions, with each track averaging over six minutes, allowing for longer instrumental sections and danceable grooves.
The album features a consistent use of synthesizers and rhythmic guitar lines that drive the dance-rock sound throughout.
The final track introduces a new version of an existing song, which alters its arrangement and adds a fresh perspective to the familiar material.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid compilation showcasing extended mixes, but not a primary entry point for new listeners.
Themes: dance floor grooves· pub rock energy· 80s new wave vibe
Career context: Released in September 1983, Dekadance followed INXS's breakthrough album Shabooh Shoobah and solidified their presence in the music scene by showcasing extended versions of their most popular tracks. This album served as a bridge between their early sound and the more polished, commercially successful direction they would take in the late '80s.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· The B-52's· Midnight Oil