Full Moon, Dirty Hearts (1993)
‘Full Moon, Dirty Hearts’ represents a significant departure from the band's previous sound, following the trend of their last album. This time with a heavier focus on 90s alternative rock and grunge influences. The album features collaborations with a number of notable musicians, including Ray Charles and Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders. I found this album to be much more enjoyable than ‘Welcome To Wherever You Are.’
‘Full Moon, Dirty Hearts’ is a solid record that showcases INXS' versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles. The songs are better crafted, with stronger hooks and more memorable melodies that keep the listener engaged, for the most part, from start to finish.
This time there are some songs worth saving and hearing again. However, while the album may be better than its predecessor, it still surely falls short of the band's best work. There is some interesting and creative music on this record. A lot of that can be highlighted on “I’m Only Looking” and “Cut Your Roses Down”.
INXS sounded like they had more fun recording this album. While “Please (You Got That...)," isn’t a revolutionary song, it seems INXS had a ball in the studio with Ray Charles. Also, the duet of Michael Hutchence and Chrissie Hynde on vocals is gorgeous on the self titled track shortly after. The X factor that made INXS' earlier albums so iconic seems to be missing here, though. The bones were there on a few of the songs, but the album as a whole misses the mark.
What made INXS truly special may not have been able to have been translated into other genres of rock music. While the collaborations with other musicians add a layer of interest and intrigue, they also highlight the fact that the band may have been struggling to find their own voice in the midst of a rapidly changing musical landscape.
Overall, ‘Full Moon, Dirty Hearts’ is a solid effort from INXS, but one that falls short of the lofty heights of their best work. Fans of the band will find a fair amount to enjoy here, but those looking for a truly transcendent musical experience may find themselves wanting more or just revisiting the groups stronger records.
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Highlight Songs:
Make Your Peace
I’m Only Looking
Full Moons, Dirty Hearts
Cut Your Roses Down
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
I would skip owning this record, but it is worth a fair stream. You may find yourself enjoying more on this record than the last, like I did, or you’ll not care for it all together. Or maybe this is your vibe and this will become your favorite INXS album.
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Overall Rating:
3.5 Stars
