Elegantly Wasted (1997)
Technically not the final INXS record all together, but the final album of the group INXS as we knew them.
By the late 1990s, the band had already released ten studio albums and had become one of the biggest acts in the world. However, their last three albums, including ‘Elegantly Wasted’, were released during a period of decline for the band, both commercially and creatively. This record features a mix of rock, pop, and dance-oriented tracks, with a slightly harder edge than their previous albums.
Despite the band's declining popularity at the time, ‘Elegantly Wasted’ is sometimes, and controversially, regarded as one of their best albums and definitely the best of their final trio of albums. One reason for this is the strong songwriting on the album. The band's trademark pop hooks and catchy choruses are still present, but there is also a greater sense of depth and maturity in the songwriting. Tracks like "Don't Lose Your Head" and "Girl on Fire" are classic INXS, with infectious grooves and sing-along choruses. There was still a lot of creative juices flowing that seemed to have been dissipated on the last two albums.
Competing in the grunge heavy 90s and starting to get pushed out of the spotlight by the likes of Hip Hop and Electronica in the late 90s was tough for all 80s bands still trying to kick it. Songs like “I’m Just A Man” show that the X-factor they had a decade prior wasn’t lost, but rather just hidden.
Another reason why ‘Elegantly Wasted’ stands out is the band's performance. Despite the turmoil and tension within the band at the time, they sound remarkably tight and focused on the record. Michael Hutchence's vocals are as powerful and charismatic as ever, and the band's instrumentation is top-notch, with tight rhythms and memorable guitar riffs.
‘Elegantly Wasted’ is a fitting tribute to Michael Hutchence, who tragically passed away just a few months after the record’s release. The album is a testament to his talent and his legacy, and it stands as a reminder of the band's incredible influence on rock music in the 1980s and 1990s.
This record is a standout album in the 90s INXS discography and the best of the band's final trio of albums. Its strong songwriting, tight performances, and memorable hooks make it a classic of 1990s rock music, and once again, a fitting tribute to one of the most charismatic and talented frontmen in rock history.
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Highlight Songs:
I’m Just A Man
Don’t Lose Your Head
Girl On Fire
Elegantly Wasted
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
I may go as far as suggesting that this one is worth the buy. Absolutely deserves a stream and I believe it is solid enough to warrant replays. It’s also a great end cap album to the Michael Hutchence era of INXS.
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Overall Rating:
4 Stars
