But it was J.D. Fortune that sprung from the CBS reality show Rock Star INXS, to assume the helm as lead singer in one of Australia's most notorious bands. The reality show also proved to be a synergistic kick to the careers of many of the contestants (Jordis, Suzie and Mig to name a few) and of one in particular, Marty Casey. Though not picked to be the lead singer of INXS, Casey and his old band the Lovehammers (Chicago’s hometown band) was offered the coveted spot in opening up for INXS on their world tour.
For fans of the reality show, they will remember Casey as the lanky blond ‘Mad Conductor’ that grew as a performer during his 15 week run on the show but it seemed that he reverted to old habits on stage. Marty—have you learned nothing from the TV show? In the Lovehammers defense, they did perform a tight set of songs that old school and new school fans could appreciate. Their current release “Marty Casey and the Lovehammers” is a remobilization of their 2004 release. The question on everyone’s mind is what is Casey’s next move? Let’s face it…going on a national television show hoping to be in another band is like going on “The Bachelor” while you are still married.
Seeing the Lovehammers reunited live is like watching a TV reality show; you never know what is going to happen next. Sure, they have a bar room brawl sound that kicks grung’s ass, but there was an apparent discord that prevailed in the performance. Regardless of subtext Casey put all of his heart and soul in the performance so much that by the end of the band’s 11 song set his pants almost came down completely. Hey, nice shave there Marty, but that’s an INXS of information—on to the headliner.
Opening up with “Suicide Blonde.” the reformed INXS, with new vocalist Fortune, took the audience on a rollercoaster ride through 3 decades of hits. Original members Andrew Farriss (guitar and keyboards), Tim Farriss (lead guitar), Jon Farriss (drums), Garry Beers (bass), and Kirk Pengilly (saxophone and guitar) enlisted Fortune for one of the most energetic and relentless shows currently touring.
Originally formed in 1977, INXS still have all the power and brute force of musicians half their age. These guys were in great shape and were having such a blast playing music from most of their previous studio releases (at least 8 of them), including their current, “Switch” The ironic thing was that new vocalist Fortune (Born in 1973), seemed to be a little winded by the end of the show. This is understandable when you join a world class band that has covered the globe with hit after hit; there’s got to be a period of adjustment.
Fortune had no problem channeling the late Michael Hutchence’s swaggering style and vocally forged the band ahead with his own contributions including the song “Pretty Vegas”. A dazzling light and video show made the 19 song set list seem like minutes, instead of hours. This show is proof that you can never have an INXS of good music. The band is back and ready for the next stage of their career.
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