“It’s been nearly 30 years since Michael and I first spoke on the phone,” recalls producer Danny Saber (Madonna, Rolling Stones, U2) about the first time he spoke to the revered INXS lead singer and ultimate rockstar Michael Hutchence. “I could scarcely imagine then, three decades later, I would be writing about the release of his ‘lost’ songs found in a vault or that there would even be a need to remind the world of his greatness… but that’s where I find myself.” Preparing for the release of the picture disc of “ONE-WAY” b/w “SAVE MY LIFE” on August 9, 2024 via Boss Sonics/Deko Entertainment, Saber has a lot to recall. A very close friend and collaborator with the late rock icon, he has been working on some of the unfinished songs that Hutchence left behind since his passing in 1997.
Two formats will be available in limited editions: standard black and white via Boss Sonics (available HERE) and red via Deko Entertainment (available HERE).
Premiered on April 4th via Brooklyn Vegan, “One-Way” surprised fans and the media alike who showered the track with praise and reminded them fondly of the arresting charisma that Hutchence embodied. Arguably the last rockstar to capture the attention of the world before the digital revolution decimated fandom, Hutchence was a unique character who combined music, sex appeal and mystique in a way that hasn’t been replicated since.
“The release of ‘One-Way’ has exceeded any expectations I dared to have,” says Saber who is carefully curating the release and rollout of Hutchence’s music. “The love and support from the fanbase and press alike has been beautiful. Michael would have especially loved how it has been embraced by so many in the Alternative and Underground communities.”
The thunderous and dramatic B-Side “Save Me Life” opens with Hutchence’s sultry and commanding hush before launching into a propulsive anthem with his soaring vocals leading straight into a chorus that recalls the best of INXS’ catalogue, highlighting that memorable and irreplaceable voice.
The culmination of nearly two decades of work, both “One-Way” and “Save My Life,” along with other demos, had been in a tape locker undisturbed for years after Hutchence’s death. When the recordings surfaced in London circa 2006, they were entrusted to Saber who immediately went to work, reviewing the recordings to determine if there was enough quality for some sort of release. “It confirms what we both agreed to all those years ago, which was to allow our creativity to take the music wherever it led us and get back to what compelled Michael to create in the first place, shaking off the shackles and fear that phenomenal success can often bring with it, in turn, stifling the creative process. This was our mission statement.”
Taking one of the acapella vocal recordings that Hutchence left, Saber faithfully fleshed out and fashioned two of the tracks into “One-Way” and “Save My Life,” ensuring it retained the elevated refinement that Hutchence demanded in life. “Michael and INXS set a really high standard for their music,” he explains. “I’ve said many times that you would be hard-pressed to find a crappy INXS song… a certain level of excellence had to be maintained!”
With a legacy that extends over four decades, beginning with the iconic multi-platinum band INXS, who have sold over 50 million albums worldwide, which effectively makes them the biggest-selling Australian act ever, as well as his solo projects, including short-lived but adored side project Max Q and also starring in films such as Dogs in Space and Frankenstein Unbound, Hutchence was an unbridled talent whose cultural significance knew few bounds. Even in death, his impact continues.
Reflecting on his friend and the ultimate meaning that these recordings will finally see the light of day, Saber concludes, “If this release has accomplished anything, hopefully hearing ‘That Voice’ again on something fresh and in tune with the times will remind the world of his greatness. If so, then mission accomplished.”
The 10” picture disc of “One-Way” b/w “Save My Life” will be released on August 9, 2024 via Boss Sonics/Deko Entertainment.