Introduction: Discovering the Best of Australian Rock

The landscape of Australian rock is filled with bands that have made significant impacts on both the local and international music scenes. Among these, INXS, AC/DC, and Midnight Oil are often mentioned as some of the best. However, the debate over which is the 'best' is highly subjective. This article explores the diverse sounds and outstanding contributions of these bands and introduces lesser-known acts such as Icehouse and The Boom Crash Opera, challenging traditional views and presenting a richer understanding of Australian rock music.

INXS: Pioneers of 80s Rock but Facing Controversy

INXS, the mighty rock band that emerged from Melbourne in the early 1980s, are often recognized as the second most successful Australian rock act after AC/DC, largely due to their extensive record sales and chart success. However, opinions vary when it comes to their standing as the best. Personally, while I rank INXS higher than many others, the debate remains hotly contested, as several millions of people would disagree with my preference.

Unfortunately, in recent years, INXS has faced significant challenges due to lead singer Michael Hutchence's untimely death. While they released some impressive albums, it’s important to note that many believe they had only 2 or 3 truly outstanding works, even though they were undeniably a formidable songwriting team. INXS is a band that was widely loved, and their music from the 80s continues to be celebrated. The commercial success of their albums like 'X' and 'Michael' can’t be denied, but it is also true that these factors alone do not define a band’s legacy or quality.

Challenge to Conventions: Midnight Oil and Their Immense Talent

While AC/DC retains immense popularity for a prolonged period, and their music has stood the test of time, Midnight Oil offers a compelling counterpoint. This band has showcased musical brilliance, producing a substantial amount of work, with 11 albums to their name. Among these, 8 are considered brilliantly crafted, making them a formidable contender for the title of the best Australian rock band. Additionally, their live performances were highly engaging, often drawing comparisons to frontman Peter Garrett, who was renowned for his vivacious energy and charismatic presence on stage.

Midnight Oil's strength lies in their musical talent and the depth of their lyrical content. Their music often reflected social and political issues, which resonated deeply with their audience. While Midnight Oil may not have achieved the same international breakthrough as some of their contemporaries, their impact on Australian music and culture is undeniable. Their plays within pubs, even in the early stages of their career, displayed a raw and passionate energy that set them apart from their peers.

Exploring Lesser-Known Gems: Icehouse and The Boom Crash Opera

While discussing INXS and Midnight Oil can be intriguing, it's also worth exploring some lesser-known bands that have made remarkable contributions to Australian rock. Two such bands are Icehouse and The Boom Crash Opera. Known for their 80s rock sound, these acts often go unnoticed but have put out some impressive music throughout their careers. Despite their sound sounding slightly dated, they are well worth checking out if you appreciate the 80s rock sound.

Icehouse, formed in Melbourne in 1981, brought a unique blend of pop and rock into the Australian music scene. Their albums like 'Sunday Best' and 'Bang' offer a nostalgic trip back to a time of colorful bands with distinct personalities. Similarly, The Boom Crash Opera, formed in the early 90s, delivered a blend of indie rock and pop that was quite refreshing. Both bands, while not as widely recognized as INXS or Midnight Oil, left a lasting imprint on the Australian rock landscape.

Final Thoughts: Subjectivity in Assessing Greatness

In the end, the question of whether INXS is the best band to emerge from Australia is an exercise in subjective opinion. There are numerous bands that could be considered 'better,' but as my initial analyses have shown, this is a matter of personal preference. AC/DC and Midnight Oil both have their unique qualities that may resonate more with different audiences. Whether it's the timeless appeal of AC/DC, the rich musicality of Midnight Oil, the retro charm of Icehouse, or the innovative sound of The Boom Crash Opera, there's a fascinating array of talent and creativity within the Australian rock scene.

Ultimately, the diversity and quality of Australian rock bands make it an exciting and vibrant genre, inviting listeners to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of sounds that this country has to offer. Whether you prefer classics like AC/DC or newer, emerging acts, there's no shortage of amazing music to discover and enjoy. Music, after all, is a subjective art form, and its value lies in how it resonates with each individual's heart and soul.

Conclusion: Australian Rock - A Living Musical Heritage

Drawing from personal experience and a thorough exploration of the Australian rock scene, it becomes clear that INXS and other bands have left an indelible mark on this genre. The music that these bands have produced remains a testament to the creativity, passion, and resilience of Australian artists. Midnight Oil’s timeless songs and Midnight Oil's live performances continue to influence new generations of musicians and fans, and bands like Icehouse and The Boom Crash Opera remind us of the enduring appeal of 80s rock.

Regardless of who you think is the best, it's the shared love for music that brings us together. So let's continue to support and explore the diverse landscape of Australian rock, whether it's through discovering new bands or revisiting our favorite classics. After all, the best band is the one that resonates with your soul, both in its present and past iterations.