INXS – Underneath The Colours

Underneath the Colours, released in 1981, is INXS’s second studio album and an important step in the band’s early development. Building on the raw new wave and pub-rock energy of their debut, the record introduced more atmospheric and socially conscious elements into their sound. Tracks like Stay Young and Underneath the Colours showed Michael Hutchence’s growing confidence as a frontman, while the band’s interplay began to take on the polish and groove that would define their later success.

The album balances upbeat, danceable numbers with more reflective material, hinting at the stylistic versatility INXS would soon be known for. While not yet the international breakthrough, Underneath the Colours captured a young band honing their craft and expanding their range, laying the foundation for the global dominance they would achieve later in the decade.

Reviews

“Underneath the Colours shows INXS beginning to stretch beyond their bar-band roots into more sophisticated territory.” – AllMusic

“A transitional record, full of promise and flashes of the band they would soon become.” – Rolling Stone

“Michael Hutchence emerges here as a charismatic voice, carrying the album with ease.” – The Guardian

“An early gem, Underneath the Colours is raw but vital, capturing INXS on the rise.” – Mojo