Listen Like Thieves

INXS’s third album for WEA captures the Australian outfit at a crucial crossroads between new wave austerity and synth-pop accessibility. Released in 1985, Listen Like Thieves balances angular guitar work with lush synthesizer arrangements, establishing the sonic template that would dominate their stadium-rock ascent. The record’s sleek production and pop rock hooks proved irresistible to both college radio and mainstream audiences, cementing the band’s transition from cult new wave act to international commercial force.