Make Your Move

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Make Your Move" by Kick Axe from their 1985 album Welcome to the Club, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this high-energy rocker. One juicy piece of trivia about this song comes from its infectious stomp rhythm and bold lyrics, which were designed to grab listeners with lines like, “The joke’s on you if you try to hide from the truth, your number is up, all eyes on you, Make Your Move.” According to a 2016 Sleaze Roxx review, the track was a standout for its ability to “cleanse the palate” after the quirky baby noises that closed the previous song, “Feels Good – Don’t Stop.” The song’s anthemic quality and driving beat made it a favorite for fans craving that mid-80s arena rock vibe, with some reviewers likening its style to what bands like Autograph were doing at the time.

Another tidbit about "Make Your Move" is its place in the band’s shift toward a more commercial sound. A 2019 blog post on mikeladano.com notes that the song’s polished production and Bon Jovi-esque energy (circa 7800° Fahrenheit) reflected Kick Axe’s label, Pasha Records, nudging them toward radio-friendly territory. The track was recorded at Metalworks Studios in Mississauga, Ontario, and mixed at Pasha Music House in Hollywood, giving it a slick, arena-ready sheen. Fans on the Kick Axe Fan Club Facebook group often share stories of blasting this song during the band’s 1980s heyday, with some recalling how its call-to-action lyrics hyped them up for live shows.

Kick Axe got their start in Regina, Saskatchewan, in 1976, founded by brothers Victor Langen (bass) and Gary Langen (drums), alongside guitarist Larry Gillstrom. According to their bio on AllMusic, the band began as a cover act, playing local gigs and honing their hard rock sound. By the late 1970s, they were writing original material, blending gritty riffs with catchy hooks. After relocating to Vancouver, they caught the attention of producer Spencer Proffer, who signed them to Pasha Records. Their 1984 debut, Vices, put them on the map as part of Canada’s metal scene, alongside bands like Helix and Anvil. Lead singer George Criston, with his powerful vocals, became a defining force, giving the band a distinctive edge.

The band’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. A strange twist came when two of their songs appeared on The Transformers soundtrack under the pseudonym “Spectre General,” confusing fans and robbing them of some credit. Despite this, Kick Axe built a loyal following, especially in Canada, and continued to rock stages. They disbanded in 1988 but reformed in 2003, releasing Kick Axe IV with a new singer. You can keep up with them on their official website, Facebook, and Instagram. Their X account shares updates on gigs and throwback posts. Fans also gather at the Kick Axe Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks might find fellow enthusiasts swapping vinyl finds and concert memories.