Shabooh Shoobah (1982)
‘Shabooh Shoobah’ marked a massive turning point for INXS as they transitioned from their early punk-infused sound to a more polished and commercially viable sound. The result is a collection of songs that are catchy, energetic, and undeniably fun. The more “inmemorable” songs on the album are still pretty good songs, which is something I cannot say for the groups last two albums.
The album kicks off with "The One Thing," one of the band's most iconic and infectious tracks. With its pulsing bassline, upbeat rhythm, and Michael Hutchence's charismatic vocals, the song sets the tone for the rest of the album. Similarly, "To Look at You" is a standout track that features lush production, soaring guitar melodies, and Hutchence's soulful crooning. The song's romantic, upbeat and dreamy atmosphere makes it a standout in the band's catalog.
“Don't Change," is an absolutely iconic rock anthem with an unforgettable chorus, and “Golden Playpen" showcases the band's knack for crafting infectious pop melodies. The latter feeling especially new wave with rototom drum accents and a killer extended saxophone solo.
Despite its strengths, there are a few missteps on ‘Shabooh Shoobah.’ None of which take away from the album, but it’s more that they don’t enhance it. Songs like “Old World New World" or “Here Comes” are perfect examples of stylistically good songs, but ones that lack the X factor.
However, these weaker tracks are easily overshadowed by the album's many strengths. ‘Shabooh Shoobah’ was a pivotal record for INXS and it is an essential listen for fans of 80s pop rock. The band's transition to a more polished sound is executed without hiccup. Michael Hutchence's vocals are a standout throughout the album, and the band's tight instrumentation and lush production make for a listening experience that is much more satisfying than the previous two records.
Whether you're a diehard INXS fan or just discovering the band for the first time, ‘Shabooh Shoobah’ is an album that is not to be missed. If you don’t care for the context of the first two records, then ‘Shabooh Shoobah’ is a great starting place for you.
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Highlight Songs
Golden Playpen
To Look at You
Jan’s Son
Don’t Change
The One Thing
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Definitely worth owning. There are an abundance of things to love on this record and it is worth listening to all of it more than once.
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Overall Rating:
4 Stars
