The Boom When The Boom (featuring Phil Collen)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the electrifying track "The Boom Went The Boom (feat. Phil Collen)" by Crossbone Skully from their debut album Evil World Machine, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song, featuring Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen, is a rebellious anthem that Tommy Henriksen, the mastermind behind Crossbone Skully, describes as "like dynamite beneath deceit," exposing lies and rallying the "Misfits of the Universe." In an interview with Louder, Henriksen revealed that the song is about politicians and evildoers whose lies will "blow up in their faces." It was the first song written for the project and caught the attention of legendary producer Mutt Lange, who came out of retirement to work on the album. Phil Collen, a longtime friend of Henriksen, shared his enthusiasm, saying, "I love the Crossbone Skully record and I’ve always loved Tommy’s voice... I’m totally thrilled to be a part of it!" The track’s music video, premiered on YouTube in October 2023, introduced the live band lineup, adding to its explosive debut.

Another layer of intrigue comes from the song’s connection to Crossbone Skully’s larger universe. According to Bandcamp, the track ties into the album’s concept of an avenging superhero from outer space, a narrative that extends into a graphic novel and an upcoming animated film called "Thing #1." Henriksen shared on Apple Music that this was the first song Mutt Lange worked on, calling it a "gateway into this amazing creative & life-changing experience." Fans on Instagram have praised its AC/DC-inspired riffs and Bon Scott-esque vocals, with one commenter noting its "fierceful hardrock metal" vibe. The song’s limited-edition 7” vinyl, paired with a signed "Thing #1" comic, supports MusiCares, showing the band’s commitment to giving back.

Crossbone Skully is the brainchild of Tommy Henriksen, a veteran musician with deep roots in rock. According to Better Noise Music, Henriksen’s journey began with early gigs in the punk-rock band POL (Parade of Losers) and a stint with German metal band Warlock alongside Doro Pesch. His career took a pivotal turn when he joined Alice Cooper’s band and later Hollywood Vampires with Johnny Depp, Joe Perry, and Cooper. The idea for Crossbone Skully sparked during a soundcheck when Alice Cooper’s lighting tech, a former AC/DC crew member, heard Henriksen’s vocals channeling Bon Scott and Brian Johnson. This inspired him to create a solo project blending AC/DC’s raw energy with influences from KISS, Iron Maiden, and the Sex Pistols. Henriksen’s work as a producer for artists like Lady Gaga and Halestorm also shaped his vision for this larger-than-life concept.

Henriksen’s collaboration with guitarist Tommy Denander and Mutt Lange brought Crossbone Skully to life, with a stellar lineup including bassist Chris Wyse, drummer Glen Sobel, and keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac. The project’s dystopian narrative, likened to David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust, features spoken-word cameos from Johnny Depp, Alice Cooper, and Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx, adding Hollywood flair. Fans can connect with Crossbone Skully on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For Zoo Freaks wanting more, check out the fan-driven Hollywood Vampires Fans group on Facebook, where Crossbone Skully’s music is celebrated alongside Henriksen’s other projects. The band’s TikTok also offers behind-the-scenes glimpses, perfect for fans craving more of their intergalactic rock saga.