What does Underneath the Colours sound like?

A vibrant blend of new wave and rock that pulsates with youthful energy and infectious rhythms. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave. Start with "Stay Young".

Is Underneath the Colours a good place to start with INXS?

Yes, Underneath the Colours is recommended as a starting point for new INXS listeners. A vibrant blend of new wave and rock that pulsates with youthful energy and infectious rhythms. Released in January 1981, 'Underneath the Colours' was INXS's second studio album following their debut, 'INXS'. At this time, the band was solidifying its identity, moving from pub rock roots towards a more polished sound that incorporated elements of funk and new wave.

Who is Underneath the Colours for?

Underneath the Colours works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove throughout, infectious melodies for dancing and for upbeat gatherings.

How many songs are on Underneath the Colours?

Underneath the Colours has 10 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Underneath the Colours

INXS · 1981

38 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of new wave and rock that pulsates with youthful energy and infectious rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Stay Young Start here — This track encapsulates the band's energetic spirit and showcases their blend of rock and dance elements, becoming a defining anthem of youthful exuberance.
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Underneath the Colours — The title track features a catchy hook and lyrical depth, reflecting themes of youthful longing and connection that resonate throughout the album.
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Night of Rebellion — With its infectious groove and rebellious lyrics, this track highlights the band's ability to fuse political commentary with danceable rhythms, a hallmark of their style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a mix of energetic tracks and varied moods, reflecting INXS's early evolution in sound.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate layered guitar riffs and synth elements, creating a textured sound that blends rock and new wave influences.
The sequencing includes a noticeable shift in mood with 'Night of Rebellion', which introduces a darker tone before returning to more energetic tracks.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove throughout
infectious melodies for dancing
for upbeat gatherings
vibrant energy for daytime listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer slower, introspective tracks
seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album helped establish INXS's presence in the Australian music scene.
Themes: early '80s youth culture· rebellious spirit
Career context: Released in January 1981, 'Underneath the Colours' was INXS's second studio album following their debut, 'INXS'. At this time, the band was solidifying its identity, moving from pub rock roots towards a more polished sound that incorporated elements of funk and new wave.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· The B-52's· Midnight Oil