No Quarter

The Zoo Crew is spinning the groovy vibes of No Quarter by Hookers & Blow, a track from their self-titled debut album released in 2021 on Golden Robot Records. This cover of Led Zeppelin’s haunting classic gets a fresh spin with a gritty, hard-rock edge, featuring Quiet Riot’s Frankie Banali on drums. In a 2021 review, ROCKPOSER praised the track, noting how the band, led by Guns N’ Roses keyboardist Dizzy Reed and Quiet Riot guitarist Alex Grossi, transforms it into “an absolute belter” with unique guitar effects and a bold reinterpretation that respects the original while making it their own. The song’s inclusion on the album was a nod to the band’s love for classic rock, with Banali’s powerful drumming adding a layer of intensity that had fans cranking up the volume.

Another tidbit about No Quarter comes from the band’s long-time commitment to delivering raw, unfiltered rock. In an interview with The Cosmick View in 2020, Grossi shared that Hookers & Blow’s covers aren’t just imitations but a “labor of love,” reflecting their 17 years of performing together. The choice of No Quarter was deliberate, as it allowed the band to showcase their ability to tackle complex, iconic tracks while infusing them with their signature Hollywood Strip swagger. Fans on Facebook have echoed this, with posts praising the track’s live performances at venues like the Whisky A Go Go, where the band’s energy and guest musicians often turn the song into a show-stopping moment.

Hookers & Blow started as a tongue-in-cheek project in 2003, founded by Dizzy Reed and Alex Grossi as a way to “drink for free in Hollywood,” according to a 2021 article on The Rockpit. What began as a casual gig at local bars evolved into a full-fledged band with a cult following. Reed, a long-time member of Guns N’ Roses since 1990, brought his rock pedigree, while Grossi, who joined Quiet Riot in 2004, added his guitar prowess. The duo recruited a rotating cast of rock veterans, including Johnny Kelly (Type O Negative, Danzig), Mike Duda (W.A.S.P.), and Nadja Reed, creating a supergroup vibe. Their chemistry and shared love for classic rock led to nationwide tours and residencies at iconic venues, cementing their “legendary status” on the Hollywood scene.

The band’s journey from a barroom lark to a respected act culminated in their 2021 debut album, which included No Quarter. As Grossi reflected in a Sonic Perspectives interview, the album was a way to “solidify” their existence after nearly two decades. Their persistence and work ethic set them apart from typical side projects, as they built a brand that resonated with fans of hard rock and heavy metal. HUSTLER Magazine even dubbed them “the greatest cover band of all time” in 2021, a testament to their ability to reimagine classics like No Quarter with authenticity and flair.

For more on Hookers & Blow, check out their official website at hookersandblowmusic.com. You can follow their updates on Facebook, where they share tour dates and behind-the-scenes content, or on Instagram for photos and videos from their live shows. They’re also active on X, engaging with fans and posting about upcoming gigs. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with fellow fans, the Hookers & Blow Facebook page is a hub for discussions, and while dedicated fan websites are scarce, the band’s social media presence keeps the community tight-knit and rocking.