Just The Same

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Just The Same" by Gentle Giant from their iconic album Free Hand. This track, kicking off the 1975 album, is a vibrant blend of jazz, funk, and progressive rock, with jagged rhythms and a standout keyboard solo by Kerry Minnear. Lyrically, it’s a sharp jab at the pretentiousness of the music industry, reflecting the band’s frustration with being misjudged due to fame. In an interview with Songfacts, Derek Shulman explained that the song captures the band’s view of their music as “pieces” rather than typical songs, crafted through a collaborative process where each member contributed distinct parts. The opening melody of "Just The Same" also has a hidden gem: it’s subtly reworked in the instrumental "Talybont" later on the album, a nod to the band’s intricate compositional style, as noted by fan Kevin Ward on the Gentle Giant Home Page.

Another cool tidbit about "Just The Same" is its accessibility compared to Gentle Giant’s earlier, more experimental work. Fans on Reddit have called it one of the band’s catchiest tunes, with its energetic vibe and complex yet melodic structure making it a perfect entry point for new listeners. The song’s themes of navigating the music biz also tie into the broader narrative of Free Hand, which was influenced by the band’s split with their former label, World Wide Artists. This album marked a fresh start with Chrysalis Records, and "Just The Same" embodies that defiant, optimistic spirit. The Gentle Giant Fan Group on Facebook, with over 15,000 members, often buzzes with discussions about how this track captures the band’s punkish energy and clever songwriting, making it a live performance favorite.

Gentle Giant began in the late 1960s, rising from the ashes of the pop-psychedelic group Simon Dupree and The Big Sound, fronted by brothers Derek, Ray, and Phil Shulman. Formed in Portsmouth, England, the band took shape in 1970 when the brothers, disillusioned with the commercial pop scene, decided to pursue a more experimental sound. Joined by multi-instrumentalists Gary Green, Kerry Minnear, and drummer Martin Smith, they aimed to push the boundaries of contemporary music, blending rock, jazz, classical, and medieval influences. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1970, set the tone for their complex, genre-defying style. As Gentle Giant’s Facebook page often highlights, the band’s early gigs were met with mixed reactions—like the infamous 1972 Hollywood Bowl show where they faced heckling from Black Sabbath fans—but their persistence built a loyal cult following.

The band’s commitment to musical diversity was evident from the start. All members, except the first two drummers, were multi-instrumentalists, playing over 30 instruments, from violins to vibraphones. Kerry Minnear’s classical training and Ray Shulman’s innovative bass work, including an 8-string bass on some Free Hand tracks, gave the band its distinctive edge. Despite never achieving mainstream success, albums like Octopus and Free Hand cemented their influence in progressive rock. After Phil Shulman left in 1973 to focus on family, the band continued with John Weathers on drums, hitting their creative peak. Fans on the Gentle Giant X account still celebrate the band’s legacy, sharing tour history and merch updates, while the Gentle Giant Instagram keeps the vibe alive with retro photos and album art.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out the Gentle Giant Home Page, a fan-driven site packed with trivia, discography details, and song analysis. The Facebook fan group is a great spot to connect with other enthusiasts, swap stories, and discover rare live recordings. Gentle Giant’s official website offers merch and news on re-releases, while their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts keep the community buzzing with updates. So, crank up "Just The Same," let those funky rhythms wash over you, and join the Giant’s cult following—peace out, Zoo Crew!