INXS Listen Like Thieves on Numbered-Edition 33RPM LP from Mobile Fidelity Silver Label: Mastered on Mobile Fidelity's Renowned Mastering System and Out of Print
Breakthrough 1985 Album Charted Three Singles: Includes “What You Need,” “Listen Like Thieves,” and “Kiss the Dirt"
1/2" / 30 IPS analog copy to analog console to lathe
Working with producer Chris Thomas (John Cale, Pete Townshend, Roxy Music), INXS expands its versatility and reach. Vocalist Michael Hutchence, too, comes into his own, singing more confidently, soulfully, and warmly than in the past. While avoiding cheap imitation, the Aussies turn to the Rolling Stones as influences, churning out thick riffs and slithering rhythms that aim for the hips and stimulate the feet. Hutchence splits the difference between the sexual bravado of Mick Jagger and primal depth of Jim Morrison, and in doing so, establishes himself as an original who’s always careful not to overdo anything or overstay his welcome.
Bolstered by a series of can’t-miss singles—the swaggeringly funky “What You Need,” sharp thrust of “Listen Like Thieves,” and wistful “Kiss the Dirt”—Listen Like Thieves teems with glorious hooks and intertwining instrumentation that cross-pollinates jazz, R&B, new-wave, and pub rock. Honking saxophone lines surge throughout, punctuating the spare chords and driving bridges with an insouciant edge missing from most of the decade’s pop. A knack for atmospheric production also plays a large role. On “Shine Like It Does,” a majestic moodiness takes hold, while “This Time” gives U2 a run for its money.
Mastered on Mobile Fidelity’s world-renowned mastering system and pressed at RTI, this Silver Series numbered-edition LP significantly enhances the midband, textural qualities, and ample spaciousness—all previously boxed-in on prior editions. The character of the bass notes, as well as the depth and breathiness of the vocals are also noticeably improved, bringing out the music’s personality and dynamics like never before.
"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
2. Listen Like Thieves
3. Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain)
4. Shine Like It Does
5. Good & Bad Times
6. Biting Bullets
7. This Time
8. Three Sisters
9. Same Direction
10. One X One
11. Red Red Sun