The Wild Frontier

The Zoo Crew is spinning "The Wild Frontier" by Bruce Hornsby & The Range from their 1986 debut album The Way It Is, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this upbeat, adventurous track. One piece of trivia about "The Wild Frontier" is its distinct lyrical imagery, which paints a vivid picture of a chaotic, almost surreal journey with lines like "El Dorado riding on the fringe" and "Aztec princess take revenge." The song's lyrics explore a quest for love in exotic, untamed places, following the thematic thread of searching for connection found in other album tracks like "Down the Road Tonight." In a review on Classic Rock Forum, the song was noted as the "most rocking" on the album, though some felt its energy seemed slightly forced compared to the band's smoother, piano-driven sound. This track, while not a chart-topping single like "The Way It Is" or "Mandolin Rain," showcases Hornsby's ability to blend heartland rock with a touch of jazz and folk, creating a sound that feels both grounded and exploratory.

Another interesting tidbit comes from the album's production. "The Wild Frontier" was part of the debut album that initially targeted the New Age music market, with an early version featuring a cover of Hornsby playing an accordion. After the title track's success, the album was remixed, and the cover was changed to feature the full band, as noted on Discogs. This shift reflects how the album evolved from a niche project to a mainstream hit, with "The Wild Frontier" benefiting from the polished production by Huey Lewis on select tracks. Fans on Reddit have praised Hornsby's ability to weave complex musical ideas into accessible pop, and "The Wild Frontier" exemplifies this with its driving rhythm and layered instrumentation. The song's energetic vibe makes it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew's eclectic, free-spirited playlist.

Bruce Hornsby, born November 23, 1954, in Williamsburg, Virginia, began his musical journey rooted in a family with a love for music. His father, Robert Stanley Hornsby, was a former musician, and his mother, Lois, was a piano player, fostering an environment where music was ever-present. Hornsby started playing piano as a child and was influenced by a wide range of genres, from classical to rock. He studied music at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music and later honed his skills in Los Angeles, playing in local bands and writing songs. His big break came when he formed Bruce Hornsby & The Range with bandmates David Mansfield, George Marinelli, Joe Puerta, and John Molo. Their debut album, The Way It Is, released in 1986 by RCA Records, catapulted them to fame, earning a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1987. Hornsby’s early career was marked by his collaboration with Huey Lewis, who produced several tracks on the debut album and helped shape its polished yet soulful sound.

Hornsby’s career took off from there, blending folk rock, jazz, bluegrass, and heartland rock. He became known for his adventurous collaborations, including a stint as a touring member of the Grateful Dead from 1990 to 1992, playing over 100 shows. His work as a session musician for artists like Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, and Stevie Nicks further cemented his reputation as a versatile talent. Fans can connect with Hornsby through his official website, where updates on his latest projects, like his 2024 collaboration Deep Sea Vents with yMusic, are shared. His Facebook page offers tour announcements and behind-the-scenes glimpses, while his Instagram features photos from performances and personal moments. On X, Hornsby engages with fans, sharing thoughts on music and culture.

For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, there are fan-driven spaces online. The Bruce Hornsby Fans Facebook group is a vibrant community where enthusiasts discuss his discography, share concert memories, and post rare live recordings. Another fan hub, Bruce Hornsby Net, offers a detailed archive of his career, including setlists and tour history. These platforms reflect the dedicated following Hornsby has cultivated over decades, much like the passionate Zoo Freaks tuning into THE ZOO. Whether it’s the rollicking energy of "The Wild Frontier" or Hornsby’s genre-defying career, there’s plenty for fans to explore and celebrate.