Secrets in the Sunset

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the soulful track "Secrets in the Sunset" by Goodbye June from their 2019 album Community Inn for all the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This song, the third track on the album, carries a raw, psych-blues vibe that’s been compared to the likes of Led Zeppelin, with its ragged and rip-roaring rock energy. According to a Bandcamp review, the track’s infectious sound is amplified by the fact that Goodbye June, at the time, was just a duo, showcasing their ability to create a massive sound with minimal manpower. The song’s gritty, heart-pounding rhythm fits right into the band’s signature style, blending classic heavy blues with intense rock ‘n’ roll, perfect for a late-night Zoo Freak jam session.

Diving into the trivia, "Secrets in the Sunset" is part of the Community Inn album, which was released on Earache Records and marked a significant milestone for the band. In a 2019 YouTube video for the song’s official audio, Goodbye June hinted at the track’s European tour connection, with the band performing it live at venues like Manchester Rebellion. Fans on Facebook have shared stories of how the song’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and rebellion, with one fan commenting on a now-archived post about hearing it live in Germany, describing the performance as “like a revival tent meeting with electric guitars.” The song’s placement on the album, sandwiched between “Universal Mega Love” and “Be Yourself,” suggests it’s a pivotal piece in the band’s exploration of freedom and self-expression, themes that resonate deeply with their audience.

Goodbye June got their start in Nashville, Tennessee, born out of both tragedy and kinship. The band, made up of cousins Landon Milbourn (lead vocals, tambourine), Brandon Qualkenbush (rhythm guitar, bass, drums, backing vocals), and Tyler Baker (lead guitar), came together after the heartbreaking loss of Tyler’s brother, PFC Shane Baker, who died in a car accident while on military leave. According to their bio on Wikipedia, the trio began writing songs to cope with their grief, naming the band Goodbye June in memory of Shane, who passed away in June. Their early days were fueled by a shared love for raw, unfiltered rock, influenced by their upbringing in the intense atmosphere of Pentecostal tent revivals. This emotional foundation shaped their debut album, Nor The Wild Music Flow, released independently in 2012, which laid the groundwork for their later success with major labels like Interscope and Earache Records.

The band’s journey from small-town Indiana to international stages is a testament to their grit and talent. After their debut, they signed with Cotton Valley Music and released Magic Valley in 2017, followed by Community Inn in 2019 and See Where The Night Goes in 2022. Their music has found its way into major platforms, including Madden 17, NFL, WWE, and ESPN College Football broadcasts, as noted on their official website. They’ve toured extensively across the U.S. and Europe, building a loyal fanbase with their electrifying live performances. Fans can connect with the band on their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and snippets of their latest work.

For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper into the Goodbye June community, there are several fan-driven spaces to explore. The Goodbye June Fans Facebook Group is a vibrant hub where supporters share concert photos, discuss favorite tracks like “Secrets in the Sunset,” and organize meetups at shows. Additionally, fan-run sites like Last.fm offer detailed discographies and listener stats, while Bandcamp provides a platform for fans to purchase music directly and leave reviews. These communities keep the spirit of Goodbye June alive, echoing the same passion the Zoo Crew brings to their airwaves every time they spin this killer track.