Different but the Same

The Zoo Crew is treating the Zoo Freaks to the melodic rock anthem "Different but the Same" by Airrace, a heartfelt track from their 2018 album Untold Stories. This song, the fourth track on the album, blends Keith Murrell’s emotive vocals with Laurie Mansworth’s shimmering guitar riffs, creating a reflective piece about unity beneath surface differences, as noted in a review by MelodicRock. In a 2018 interview with Rock Report, Mansworth shared that the song was inspired by the band’s reunion, reflecting their journey of coming back together despite years apart, with lyrics that resonate universally. A post on the band’s Facebook page highlighted a 2018 live performance of the track at Firefest, with fans commenting on its “uplifting vibe” and Murrell’s ability to deliver the chorus with raw emotion.

Adding to the song’s story, "Different but the Same" was produced by the band and mixed by Tony Newton, giving it a polished yet authentic AOR sound, as detailed on Discogs. Clocking in at around 4 minutes, the track’s warm, layered harmonies and driving rhythm make it a standout, with fans on YouTube praising its “classic 80s feel with a modern twist” in comments under the album’s stream. A review on Metal Kaoz noted the song’s ability to balance introspection with an anthemic quality, making it a highlight of Untold Stories. Fan discussions on MelodicRock forums also celebrated its inclusion in Airrace’s 2018 live sets, with some calling it a perfect showcase of the band’s renewed chemistry post-reunion.

Airrace was formed in London in 1982 by guitarist Laurie Mansworth, previously of the band More, with a vision to craft melodic rock inspired by AOR giants like Journey and Foreigner. The original lineup featured Keith Murrell (vocals), Jim Reid (bass), Toby Sadler (keyboards), and Jason Bonham (drums), son of Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham, as outlined in a bio on Sleaze Roxx. Mansworth built the band through relentless gigging in London’s club circuit, landing a deal with Atco Records for their 1984 debut Shaft Of Light, which earned a cult following despite limited commercial success. After disbanding in the mid-80s, Airrace reformed in 2009 for a Firefest performance, leading to their 2011 album Back To The Start and the 2018 release of Untold Stories, which includes "Different but the Same."

The band’s early years were defined by their dedication to melodic rock in a scene dominated by heavier NWOBHM acts, with Mansworth and Bonham’s synergy driving their initial buzz, as noted in a Rock Report feature. The 2009 reunion brought new members like Simon Dawson (drums) and David Boyce (bass), revitalizing their sound while staying true to their AOR roots. Airrace’s persistence has kept them a beloved name in the melodic rock community, with fans drawn to their heartfelt, polished style. Follow their updates on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour news, studio insights, and throwbacks to their 80s era.

For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with Airrace’s fanbase, online communities keep the band’s legacy thriving. Metalfields Wiki offers detailed discographies and band history, while MelodicRock hosts vibrant discussions where fans rave about tracks like "Different but the Same" and share memories of Airrace’s live performances. The Dokken/Lynch Mob Fans Facebook group occasionally buzzes with Airrace chatter, as fans of 80s AOR swap stories about their influence and rare live footage. These platforms provide a lively space to celebrate Airrace’s melodic rock contributions, perfectly aligning with the Zoo Crew’s rock-loving, free-spirited vibe.