INXS – X [Stereo] (Mobile Fidelity Silver Label Series Edition)

(AAA) — Lacquers cut from an analog tape copy by Paul Stubblebine at Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab.

INXS X Numbered-Edition 33RPM LP from Mobile Fidelity Silver Label: Mastered on the Label's Renowned Mastering System and Out of Print

1/2" / 30 IPS analog copy to analog console to lathe

The adage “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” applies to INXS’ X. Named to commemorate the band’s tenth year together, the 1990 album came on the heels of the mega-platinum and era-defining Kick—and all the pressures that come with such a follow-up. INXS doesn’t blink, however, turning in a record as catchy, boundary-defying, and immediate as its predecessor. It stands as the last blockbuster of the band’s career, and deservedly so.

X commences with one of the finest one-two-three punches in pop history. With a sample of blues legend Charlie Musselwhite’s riveting harmonica situated up next to a crunchy R&B riff, “Suicide Blonde” seizes upon the charisma of vocalist Michael Hutchence, whose breathy delivery accentuates the song’s edginess, mystery, and desirable allure. In “Disappear,” INXS’ final Top Ten single, synthesized orchestrations and a loping bass line build up to a memorable chorus, elevated by a spiky guitar and Hutchence’s urgency. Arguably the group’s dramatic peak, “The Stairs” oozes beauty and longing, the climbing arrangement hinting at triumph and will.

If there’s a secret to the album’s success, it resides with the scintillating beats. Every tune resonates with a perfect sense of rhythm and drums that combine the textures of arena rock, soul, and dance. Producer Chris Thomas, with whom INXS claimed its greatest successes, ensures the band’s music never gets crowded or claustrophobic. Spaciousness reigns, broadening the impact of the grooves and accenting the vulnerability of Hutchence’s tones.  From all angles, X is pop confection, a fastidious creation of tasteful hooks, teeming melodies, and enticing lyrics.

Mastered on Mobile Fidelity’s world-renowned mastering system and pressed at RTI, this Silver Series numbered-edition LP redoubles the genius of Thomas’ production and merit of songwriting craftsmanship. Heard in the context of the roomy soundstages, the music takes on new life, ensnaring you with crispness, warmth, immediacy, and incessant catchiness.

"The Mobile Fidelity production is at its usual high standard for both the records and their gatefold sleeves. Sonic highlights include spacious instrumental separation on both records, and the bass, which plays a crucial role, is reproduced with the kind of deep authority that lends this music to dancing. The vinyl is extremely quiet, and the reasonable price make it easy to recommend these reissues."
—The Audio Beat, April 2014

(Above description from MusicDirect.com)