The innovative mind of reality television is at it again. Mark Burnett, creator of Survivor, has taken on what seems to be an impossible feat—finding a singer to front the iconic 80’s rock band INXS. The members of INXS: Garry Beers, Kirk Pengilly and brothers: Andrew, John and Tim Farriss are looking for “one of their kind,” and out of approximately 7,000 candidates they have narrowed it down to 15. During a three month audition process contestants will battle it out to secure a place as front man of INXS. The winner will record and tour with the band.

By Christine Blackmon
Reality Reel Media
07.14.05

Monday night the contestants were greeted by host Brooke Burke as the unmistakable sound of INXS escaped from a nearby room. Following the sound to its source revealed INXS jamming in the living room along with Dave Navarro of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Having previously gone through a similar experience when joining the Chili Peppers, Navarro stressed that he knows the importance of fitting in and gelling with a band. After introductions, Brooke informed the contestants that in one hour they were to perform at the historic Mayan Theater—the last LA gig INXS performed with front-man Michael Hutchence. Based on that performance, one will be eliminated.

So— are they just posers—or do they have actual talent? Here are their stats:

Brandon Calhoon, 31, is a native of Michigan, where he was the lead vocalist and guitarist in bands of both cover and original material. Since arriving in California he has played solo gigs while looking for a band to join.

Dana Robbins, 30, currently resides in Studio City, California where she holds jobs as a musician, dancer, yoga instructor, and bartender. Recently she sang with two LA-based bands - the hard rock band, Aerial, and the Alien Show Girls.

Born in Germany and raised in The Big Apple, Daphna Dove, 29, currently works as a legal secretary in Los Angeles, California. Her most recent band was the LA-based Lexington.

Deanna Johnston, 36, lives in Reseda, California with her husband. Originally from Kingston, Ontario, she is one of four from Canada.

Heather Luttrell, 27, from Atlanta, Georgia, is a musician, painter, and nanny.

J.D. Fortune, 31, currently lives in Oakville, Ontario, Canada and was raised in both Nova Scotia and Toronto. He was in his last rock band for six years before doing a short stint in the Canadian army.