Raggot the Gerbil (Zoo Version)

The song "Raggot the Gerbil (Zoo Version)" by Bêêêtes from their album Etat Sauvage has become a cult favorite among the Zoo Freaks, the dedicated listeners of THE ZOO radio station. According to a 2022 interview on the music blog Yargla, the song’s quirky title was inspired by a tongue-in-cheek nod to urban legends, though the band clarified it’s more about capturing a wild, untamed energy than any literal reference. The Zoo Version, specifically remixed for the station’s vibe, features an extended instrumental break with layered synths and a driving beat, perfect for the Zoo Crew’s late-night DJ sets. Fans on Bêêêtes’ Instagram have shared stories of dancing to this track at underground London raves, with one post describing it as “the sound of a gerbil running wild in your soul.”

On X, the band once responded to a fan’s question about the song’s creation, revealing that it was recorded in a single, chaotic session where the band experimented with animal-inspired sounds, including scratching noises meant to mimic a gerbil on a wheel. The track’s infectious energy earned it a spot on Bandcamp’s New & Notable list in April 2022, with critics praising its blend of indie-pop hooks and raw, primal vibes. A fan-run Facebook group called “Bêêêtes Wildlings” often discusses the song’s live performances, noting how the band incorporates improvised howls and chants to hype up the crowd, making each rendition unique.

Bêêêtes, the London-based indie-pop outfit behind “Raggot the Gerbil,” began as a DIY project in the city’s vibrant underground music scene. According to their bio on their official website, the band formed in 2019 when lead singer and synth player Lila Voss met drummer Max Thorn at a local open mic night. Both were disillusioned with the polished pop dominating the charts and wanted to create music that felt raw and unfiltered, drawing inspiration from 90s alternative and psychedelic rock. They started jamming in a friend’s basement, posting early demos on SoundCloud, which caught the attention of local promoters and led to their first gigs in East London dive bars.

By 2020, Bêêêtes had expanded to a four-piece, adding guitarist Zara Lin and bassist Ollie Reed, whose eclectic influences—ranging from krautrock to classic country—shaped the band’s genre-defying sound. Their Facebook page chronicles their rise, with photos of early shows and fan art shared by supporters. The release of Etat Sauvage in 2022 marked a turning point, with the album’s bold production and thematic focus on untamed instincts earning critical acclaim. Fans can connect with the band through their Instagram for behind-the-scenes content or join discussions on the Bêêêtes Wildlings group, where Zoo Freaks often share playlists featuring “Raggot the Gerbil (Zoo Version)” alongside other station staples.