Mega Stomp

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious "Mega Stomp" by 707, a track from their 1982 album Mega Force, and the Zoo Freaks are surely grooving to its hard-hitting AOR vibes. This song, one of the bonus tracks on the remastered CD release, captures the band's knack for blending melodic hooks with gritty rock energy. Interestingly, "Mega Stomp" wasn't part of the original vinyl pressing but was later included to showcase the band's heavier, riff-driven side. In a 2004 review on Metal Storm, the album was praised for evoking an '80s Hollywood car-chase vibe, with "Mega Stomp" contributing to the nostalgic, high-octane feel. Fans on Amazon have noted the track's raw power, with one reviewer calling it a standout for its "sheer emotion" and rhythmic intensity, perfect for cranking up loud. Though no direct quotes from the band about "Mega Stomp" have surfaced in recent posts on platforms like X, the song's inclusion as a bonus track suggests it was a fan favorite during live performances, likely fueling the Zoo Freaks' enthusiasm.

Digging into 707's origins, the band formed in Detroit in 1978, a hotbed for rock 'n' roll grit. The original lineup—Phil Bryant (bass, vocals), Jim McClarty (drums), Duke McFadden (keyboards, vocals), Kevin Russell (guitars, vocals), and David Carr (piano)—came together with a shared love for melodic rock and a desire to craft radio-friendly anthems. According to their bio on AllMusic, they signed with Casablanca Records and dropped their self-titled debut in 1980, scoring a modest hit with "I Could Be Good for You," which peaked at No. 52 on the Billboard Hot 100. The band's early days were marked by relentless touring, opening for acts like REO Speedwagon, as noted in a Get Ready to Rock review. Despite label struggles, including Casablanca's financial woes, 707's persistence led to their defining Mega Force album, where the addition of vocalist Kevin Chalfant elevated their sound to Journey-esque heights. Their journey from Detroit's club scene to arena stages reflects the Zoo Crew's hippie ethos of chasing passion over profit.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to connect with 707's legacy, the band's official website at 707band.com offers a dive into their discography and history. Their Facebook page keeps fans updated with occasional posts about re-releases and band news, while their X account shares retro vibes and fan interactions. Unfortunately, no active Instagram presence was found for 707, but fans can explore the 707 Fans Facebook group, where enthusiasts share memories, rare tracks, and vinyl finds. Dedicated fan sites are scarce, but Heavy Harmonies provides a detailed discography for collectors. These platforms keep the spirit of 707 alive, much like the Zoo Crew's vinyl-spinning sessions for their devoted listeners.