Australian rock legends INXS are celebrating a remarkable milestone?40 years since the launch of their groundbreaking album, Listen Like Thieves. This iconic record not only marked a pivotal moment in the band?s career but also helped define the sound of Australian rock on the global stage.

Released in October 1985, Listen Like Thieves was the fifth studio album by the Sydney-based sextet. It was a significant leap for the band, as it was their first to achieve considerable international success. Following its release, the album topped charts in Australia and made its mark in other regions, including a notable No. 11 peak on the Billboard 200 in the United States. This marked a turning point, allowing them to reach audiences beyond their native country.

The album featured a series of successful singles that contributed to its acclaim, including the title track, ?Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain)?, ?This Time?, and ?What You Need?. The latter emerged as the album?s standout hit, soaring to No. 2 in Australia and No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing INXS’s place in music history.

When Listen Like Thieves was launched, INXS was already a household name in Australia, thanks to their distinctive sound and rigorous touring. The album aimed to translate this energy and connection to the listener?s experience at home. Frontman Michael Hutchence shared in an interview with Rolling Stone in 1985 that the band approached the album as if it were a live concert, emphasizing the importance of the synergy among the six members. ?We want to present this record as a band ? the idea of six people playing together and using traditional sounds,? he explained.

In anticipation of the album?s 40th anniversary, surviving members of INXS have unveiled a deluxe edition that aims to celebrate its legacy. Set for release on May 9, this comprehensive 3CD/LP collection features a reimagined remix of the original album, with production by Giles Martin and Paul Hicks, who have revitalized Chris Thompson?s original work. This edition also includes a treasure trove of unreleased outtakes and demos, a rare BBC recording titled Live From The Royal Albert Hall, London, 1986, and an insightful new interview conducted by writer Paul Sexton. Additionally, a 2CD edition pairs the new mix with a selection of B-sides, remixes, and live recordings, while a single LP version presents the 2025 mix alone.

Keyboardist and guitarist Andrew Farriss recalled the significant influence of producer Chris Thomas, stating, ?Chris Thomas was one of the most talented and exciting producers we ever had the privilege to work with.? He noted that Thomas’s enthusiasm and vision played a crucial role in crafting the hit single ?What You Need.? Farriss added, ?40 years on, Giles and Paul captured the original raw energy we felt when we first recorded the album and created a sonic depth that gives the record an entirely new dimension that we couldn?t be prouder of.?

One of the most remarkable inclusions in this deluxe edition is the BBC?s live recording of INXS? June 1986 show at London?s Royal Albert Hall. This performance was attended by a host of notable artists, including Mick Jagger, The Cult, and the Psychedelic Furs, marking it as a significant event for the band. It was a poignant night that underscored their growing relationship with the U.K. Almost five years later, INXS would return to the U.K. to headline a sold-out concert at London?s Wembley Stadium, performing before an audience of 72,000 fans.

INXS achieved their peak commercial success two years after the release of Listen Like Thieves with their 1987 album Kick, which propelled them to megastardom. This album not only topped the charts in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand but also reached an impressive No. 3 on the Billboard 200, solidifying their status in the music industry.

Despite the tragic loss of Michael Hutchence in 1997, which led to the band?s temporary split, INXS has had a dynamic history with various vocalists until their retirement in 2012. Remarkably, they remain one of Australia?s best-selling bands, with their 2011 compilation album The Very Best making a notable appearance on the Australian Recording Industry Association?s end-of-year charts for 2024, ranking at No. 81?an impressive feat as one of only three local records to achieve this status.