How Inxs Used Analog Tape Manipulation To Create Unique Sounds

April 1, 2025

In the vibrant heart of the 1980s, a band named INXS was making waves across the world with their electrifying sound. But what many fans didn’t know was that beneath the flashy concerts and catchy hits lay a secret ingredient: analog tape manipulation. This technique, which involved altering sounds on magnetic tape, would soon become a hallmark of their creativity and innovation. One chilly evening, as the band gathered in their studio, they were fueled by the desire to push musical boundaries and to transform their sonic landscape into something truly unique.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the mixing console, the band members huddled around an array of tape machines. They were armed not just with instruments, but with a collection of creative ideas. They experimented by recording guitar riffs, vocals, and even everyday sounds, then played with the tapes—slowing them down, speeding them up, and layering them in unexpected ways. Each turn of the reel revealed a new dimension of sound; a heartbeat, a whisper, a wailing guitar—the magic was in the manipulation. They could create something that felt alive, as if the music was breathing along with them.

One such moment came when they were working on their iconic album “Kick.” The band found a way to craft a haunting, yet uplifting sound by manipulating a simple voice loop. As they twisted the knobs and pushed the faders, the once-linear sounds transformed into a swirling piece of art. Michael Hutchence, the charismatic lead singer, would often close his eyes, letting the sounds wash over him like waves. This was more than just music; it was a profound expression of their passion and resilience. Each track they created became a testament to their tireless pursuit of originality and their commitment to not settle for the ordinary.

As INXS released their groundbreaking songs, the world of music could feel the difference. Tracks like “New Sensation” and “Need You Tonight” soared to the top of the charts, but it wasn’t just the catchy melodies that captivated audiences; it was the rich layers of sound that made each song feel like an adventure. Fans were drawn to the energy, the emotion, and the creativity that flowed through every note. INXS wasn’t just a band; they were storytellers, and their innovative use of analog tape was a brush that painted vibrant scenes in the minds of listeners far and wide.

However, the path to success wasn’t always smooth. The pressures of fame and the challenges of the music industry weighed heavily on the band. Yet, whenever they returned to the studio, the spirit of collaboration sparked new life. The analog tape machines became their sanctuary, a place where they could escape the chaos of the world and find solace in their creativity. They learned that every challenge was an opportunity to grow, to explore, and to connect with themselves and their audience on a deeper level.

Through their resilience and passion for experimenting with sound, INXS carved a legendary path in music history. Their journey was a beacon of inspiration, reminding aspiring artists everywhere to embrace their uniqueness and to never shy away from pushing boundaries. Even years later, the powerful echoes of their analog tape manipulation still linger in the hearts of many, a testament to the magic that happens when creativity knows no limits.