Mega Force

Zoo Freaks, get ready for a blast from the past as The Zoo Crew spins the electrifying track "Mega Force" by 707 from their 1982 album of the same name. This song, a quintessential piece of early '80s arena rock, was originally recorded as the theme for the cult classic film Megaforce, a 1982 box office bomb that has since earned a "so-bad-it's-great" reputation among fans. The track itself soared to No. 12 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock charts and No. 62 on the Hot 100, capturing the era's love for catchy, guitar-driven anthems. One intriguing piece of trivia comes from 707's history: the song was later reworked by Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley for his solo project, retitled "Calling To You" to avoid confusion with Frehley's label, Megaforce Records. Frehley replaced Jonathan Cain's writing credit with his own, giving the song a new life in the hard rock scene.

Another tidbit from fan discussions on platforms like Amazon reviews highlights the song's enduring appeal. One fan recalls stumbling upon the Mega Force vinyl in a mid-'80s clearance bin, drawn to it by a thank-you note to REO Speedwagon in the liner notes. This discovery led to a lifelong love for the album, with "Mega Force" standing out as a standout track that rivals the energy of bands like Survivor or AC/DC. The song's heavy riffs and rhythmic drive made it a radio favorite in places like Mexico, where FM stations played it relentlessly in 1982, as noted in a fan review. Its connection to the film also adds a layer of nostalgia, with fans of the movie praising the song's ability to elevate the closing credits into a memorable moment.

707 began their journey in Detroit in the late 1970s, embodying the heart of American rock. The original lineup featured Phil Bryant on bass and vocals, Jim McClarty on drums, Duke McFadden on keyboards and vocals, Kevin Russell on guitars and vocals, and David Carr on piano. Their big break came when they signed with Casablanca Records, a label known for its bold roster, including Kiss and Donna Summer. Their self-titled debut album in 1980 spawned the modest hit "I Could Be Good for You," which peaked at No. 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gained traction on rock radio. Written by McFadden and McClarty, the song showcased the band's knack for melodic hooks and laid the groundwork for their AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) sound, often compared to Journey or Foreigner. Despite lineup changes and label shifts, including a move to Boardwalk Records for Mega Force, 707's early years were marked by relentless touring, opening for heavyweights like REO Speedwagon, Scorpions, and Ted Nugent, cementing their place in the '80s rock scene.

Unfortunately, 707 does not maintain an official website or active social media presence today, reflecting their status as a band that largely disbanded in 1983, with sporadic reunions in the 2000s. There are no verified Facebook, Instagram, or X accounts dedicated to the band. However, fans can connect through platforms like Discogs for vinyl and CD collectors or explore discussions on Amazon and Rate Your Music, where enthusiasts share reviews and ratings. Dedicated fan websites or Facebook groups for 707 are scarce, but the broader AOR and hard rock communities on Heavy Harmonies offer a space to discover more about the band’s discography and legacy. Zoo Freaks, crank up "Mega Force" and let its nostalgic vibes transport you to the glory days of '80s rock!