Is The Swing a good place to start with INXS?

Yes, The Swing is recommended as a starting point for new INXS listeners. A vibrant blend of dance-rock and new wave, pulsating with infectious rhythms and soaring melodies that invite movement. The Swing marked INXS's third studio album, following their breakthrough success with Shabooh Shoobah in 1982. At this point, they were solidifying their unique sound and gaining international attention, setting the stage for future hits. The record showcased a refined approach to their genre-blending style, incorporating elements of funk rock and new wave.

Who is The Swing for?

The Swing works well if you're into infectious grooves for dancing, dynamic flow with peaks and vibrant energy for celebrations.

How many songs are on The Swing?

The Swing has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

The Swing

INXS · 1984

42 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of dance-rock and new wave, pulsating with infectious rhythms and soaring melodies that invite movement.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Original Sin Start here — The lead single features an unforgettable chorus and showcases the band's ability to fuse rock with dance elements, making it a staple in their catalog.
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Dancing on the Jetty — This track captures the carefree spirit of the album and highlights the band's signature groove, blending catchy hooks with lively instrumentation.
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Burn for You — A standout ballad that reveals a softer side of INXS, this track combines emotive lyrics with atmospheric production, showcasing Michael Hutchence's vocal prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong rhythmic elements and memorable melodies, solidifying INXS's sound in the 80s.

What we noticed

The first track, 'Original Sin', features a prominent horn section that sets a vibrant tone for the album.
Several tracks, like 'Dancing on the Jetty' and 'Burn for You', incorporate syncopated rhythms that enhance their dance-rock appeal.
The album's title track, 'The Swing', employs a call-and-response vocal structure that creates an engaging dynamic between the lead singer and backing vocals.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

infectious grooves for dancing
dynamic flow with peaks
vibrant energy for celebrations
engaging rhythms for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

slow, reflective listening preferences
seeking minimalistic soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified INXS's reputation and expanded their international recognition.
Themes: Australian nightlife· 1980s dance culture
Career context: The Swing marked INXS's third studio album, following their breakthrough success with Shabooh Shoobah in 1982. At this point, they were solidifying their unique sound and gaining international attention, setting the stage for future hits. The record showcased a refined approach to their genre-blending style, incorporating elements of funk rock and new wave.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· The B-52's· Midnight Oil