The Swing, INXS
As we keep working on our new website, images might be a copies only - so please don't hesitate to request real photos of any record via the contact page or the send us a DM via Instagram.
Die Cut Gatefold Sleeve.
INXS – The Swing
Artist: INXS
Title: The Swing
Album Type: Fourth Studio Album
Original Release Date: March 21, 1984
Label: WEA (Australia) / Atco (US) / Mercury (Europe)
Genre: New Wave / Dance-Rock / Funk-Rock
Background & Production The Swing is the pivotal album that transformed INXS from Australian pub-rockers into international superstars. Seeking a sleek, global sound, the band collaborated with two legendary producers. The lead single, Original Sin, was recorded at The Power Station in New York with Nile Rodgers, who brought his signature funk sensibilities to the track. The remainder of the album was produced by Nick Launay at The Manor in the UK, resulting in a record that perfectly balanced raw post-punk edge with sophisticated dance floor grooves.
Musical Composition & Style The album defined the "INXS sound": a fusion of rock instrumentation with rhythmic precision and Michael Hutchence’s charismatic, soulful vocals.
-
The Breakthrough Hit: Original Sin features backing vocals from Daryl Hall and remains one of the most iconic songs of the 80s, hitting #1 in Australia and becoming a massive club hit globally.
-
Staccato Rhythms: Tracks like I Send a Message and Dancing on the Jetty showcase the tight, interlocking guitar work and melodic pop sensibilities that would soon conquer the US charts.
-
Atmospheric Depth: Burn for You showcased the band’s growing maturity, blending moody synthesizers with cinematic arrangements.
-
Modern Funk: The title track, The Swing, exemplifies the band’s ability to strip rock music down to its rhythmic core, creating a sound that was both radio-friendly and avant-garde.
Legacy & Collector Notes The Swing was a massive commercial success, becoming one of the highest-selling albums of the year in Australia. For vinyl collectors, the original Australian WEA pressing is highly prized for its unique die-cut gatefold sleeve. It is an essential item for any shop specializing in Australian music history, 80s New Wave, or the legacy of Michael Hutchence.
-
Keywords: INXS, The Swing, Michael Hutchence, Original Sin, Nile Rodgers, Nick Launay, 1984 Vinyl, Australian Rock, New Wave, Dance Rock.
-
Collection Ideas: 80s Australian Classics, New Wave Essentials, Funk-Rock Pioneers, Essential 80s Albums.
-
Related Artists: Midnight Oil, The Models, Duran Duran, Talking Heads, Simple Minds.
MINT - sealed
NM - likely never played - almost perfect
VG+ - light scuffs, light scratches wont effect play
VG - signs of wear, light scratches you can feel
GOOD - surface noise, visible groove wear
POOR / FAIR- some damage, causing issues like skipping & distorted audio
OIS - original inner sleeve
