INXS: Live in Aspen – February 1997 cover

INXS: Live in Aspen – February 1997

INXS · 1997

22 min · 6 tracks · alternative rock

Energetic live performances blend dance-rock grooves with anthemic choruses, capturing the essence of INXS's vibrant stage presence.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    New Sensation Start here — This track opens the concert with infectious energy, showcasing the band's knack for anthemic hooks and lively instrumentation that engages the audience immediately.
  • →
    Need You Tonight — As one of their most recognizable hits, this song encapsulates INXS's signature sound, blending seductive lyrics with a danceable rhythm that remains a crowd favorite.
  • →
    Elegantly Wasted — The title track from their last studio album is a poignant reflection on the band's journey, combining introspective lyrics with a captivating melody that resonates deeply in a live setting.

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 EP captures INXS's live energy but lacks the depth of their studio work, making it enjoyable yet not.

What we noticed

  • The performance features a consistent tempo throughout, with the first three tracks maintaining an upbeat energy before slowing down slightly in the latter half.
  • The arrangement includes extended instrumental sections that allow for improvisation and showcase the musicianship of the band.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • high-energy party atmosphere
  • short bursts of excitement
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • intimate live performance vibe

Maybe skip if you

  • slow, contemplative listening preference
  • long, sprawling musical journeys

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Showcases INXS's continued ability to connect with fans during a challenging period.
Themes
intimate live energy· Aspen nightlife· dance-rock evolution
Career context
By 1997, INXS was navigating the challenges of maintaining relevance after their commercial peak in the late '80s and early '90s. This live album showcases their continued popularity, featuring songs from their later albums like 'Elegantly Wasted,' which was released just before this performance. The concert reflects a band still capable of thrilling audiences while adapting to changing musical landscapes.
Stylistic neighbors
Duran Duran· The B-52's· Midnight Oil

Tracklist

  • 1 New Sensation Start here 4:18
  • 2 Elegantly Wasted 3:59
  • 3 Searching 4:09
  • 4 Need You Tonight 3:04
  • 5 What You Need 3:26
  • 6 Kick 3:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata