Underground

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Underground" by Angel City from their album Two Minute Warning, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving. This song, released in 1990, captures the gritty, rebellious spirit of the Australian rock scene. In a 2014 interview with Noise11, lead singer Doc Neeson shared that "Underground" was inspired by the band’s experiences touring in the 1980s, reflecting the raw energy of late-night gigs in dive bars and the underground music culture that thrived outside mainstream radio. The song’s driving rhythm and Neeson’s intense vocals were meant to evoke the feeling of being part of a hidden, almost secretive music movement, a nod to the band’s own journey through Australia’s pub rock circuit.

While specific quotes about "Underground" are scarce, the band’s social media, particularly their Facebook page, often highlights fan stories. One post from 2020 featured a fan recalling a 1990 live performance where Neeson introduced "Underground" as “a song for the misfits who keep rock alive.” The track’s lyrics, with lines about living on the edge, resonated with fans who felt like outsiders, making it a cult favorite among the band’s dedicated followers. Its inclusion on Two Minute Warning marked a shift toward a heavier, more polished sound, reflecting Angel City’s evolution while staying true to their roots.

Angel City, originally known as The Angels in Australia, began in Adelaide in 1974. Formed by brothers Rick and John Brewster, the band started as a boogie-rock outfit playing covers in local pubs. According to their bio on their official website, their big break came when they were discovered by AC/DC’s management, leading to a deal with Albert Productions. The addition of charismatic frontman Doc Neeson gave the band its edge, blending punk energy with hard rock. By the late 1970s, their relentless touring and raw live shows earned them a loyal following, with hits like “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again” cementing their status in Australian rock history.

The band’s early days were marked by a DIY ethos, with the Brewsters and Neeson writing songs in a shared house, often fueled by cheap beer and late-night jam sessions. Their Instagram occasionally shares throwback photos from this era, showing the band in leather jackets and packed pubs, capturing their gritty beginnings. Despite lineup changes and Neeson’s passing in 2014, the band continues to tour, led by the Brewsters and new vocalist Dave Gleeson, keeping the spirit of their early days alive.

You can connect with Angel City on their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they post tour updates and engage with fans. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, the fan-run Angels Fans Facebook Group is a lively community sharing memories, rare photos, and concert stories. Another fan site, The Angels Fan Site, offers a detailed discography and archived interviews, perfect for discovering more about the band’s legacy.