The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Cold" by Dirty Shirley from their self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it. This track stands out for its gritty, down-tuned guitar riff that kicks in right from the start, blending a funky, almost stoner-rock vibe with a modern twist. Reviews describe "Cold" as a heavy hitter, with one calling it a fusion of Hendrix and Tool influences, driven by a massive guitar hook that grabs you instantly. Another review highlights its attitude-packed, street-fighting energy, making it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, high-energy vibe. The song’s vocal performance by Dino Jelusick is noted for its depth, holding its own against George Lynch’s blistering guitar work, creating a dynamic that feels both raw and polished.
One piece of trivia about "Cold" comes from its reception among fans and critics. On Sleaze Roxx, a reviewer pointed out the song’s heavier edge, naming it a favorite until the repetitive line “Somebody Get Me A Time Machine” near the end slightly threw them off. Despite this, the track’s infectious energy kept it a standout. The song’s production, handled by George Lynch and mixed by Alessandro Del Vecchio, adds a layer of polish that elevates its raw power, with some speculating Del Vecchio’s signature keyboard touches might be subtly woven in. Fans on Dirty Shirley’s Facebook page have shared their love for the track’s bold riffs, with some calling it a modern nod to classic hard rock anthems, perfect for cranking up loud—exactly the kind of vibe the Zoo Freaks would dig.
Dirty Shirley is a project born from a collaboration between guitar legend George Lynch, formerly of Dokken and Lynch Mob, and Croatian vocal powerhouse Dino Jelusick, known for his work with Animal Drive and Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The band’s origin story traces back to a mutual admiration between the two. Jelusick, a rising star in the hard rock scene, caught Lynch’s attention with his commanding vocals. When Lynch proposed writing and producing an album together, Jelusick jumped at the chance. They were joined by bassist Trevor Roxx and drummer Will Hunt, known for his work with Evanescence, rounding out a lineup that’s been called a “supergroup” by fans. Their debut album, released in January 2020 via Frontiers Music, was a creative outlet for Lynch to explore new sonic territories while staying rooted in his signature bluesy, hard rock style.
George Lynch’s journey in music began in the late 1970s, rising to fame as the guitarist for Dokken, where his blistering solos and creative riffs helped define the band’s sound on albums like Tooth and Nail. After leaving Dokken, he formed Lynch Mob, further cementing his reputation as a guitar hero. Dino Jelusick, on the other hand, grew up in Croatia, immersed in music from a young age. His early career included performing with local bands before breaking out with Animal Drive, which showcased his Dio-esque vocal range. The formation of Dirty Shirley was a natural evolution for both, blending Lynch’s decades of experience with Jelusick’s fresh energy. Their collaborative process, as Jelusick shared in interviews, involved Lynch sending rough jams, with Jelusick experimenting with countless melodies and lyrics to craft songs like "Cold."
For more on Dirty Shirley, check out their official page at Frontiers Music. You can follow them on social media via Facebook and Instagram, though their X account is less active. Fans have created spaces to connect, like the Lynch Mob Fans Facebook group, where Dirty Shirley often gets love alongside Lynch’s other projects. Websites like Sleaze Roxx and Rock and Blues Muse also feature fan-driven reviews and discussions about the band, keeping the Zoo Freaks’ passion for "Cold" alive.
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