Show A Little Love

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Show A Little Love" by Lillian Axe, a standout track from their 1989 album Love + War, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the vibes. This song, a melodic hard rock gem, was the lead single from the album and came with a music video that got some airplay on outlets like Z-Rock radio. According to a review on Sleaze Roxx, the track showcases the improved songwriting and performance of guitarist Steve Blaze and frontman Ron Taylor, who worked under producer Tony Platt to craft a radio-friendly rocker. Fun fact: the album cover for Love + War features Sharon Case, known for her role on General Hospital, adding a touch of pop culture flair. The song’s polished production, often compared to Def Leppard’s style, makes it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, high-energy setlist.

Another tidbit about "Show A Little Love" comes from fan enthusiasm shared on platforms like ReverbNation, where it’s celebrated for its upbeat, energizing rhythm that gets listeners moving. The track was part of an album that, despite its quality, didn’t get the push it deserved from MCA Records, a recurring theme for Lillian Axe during their early years. Fans on Lillian Axe’s official Facebook page often reminisce about catching the band live during the Love + War tour, with one fan recalling a 1989 show in Amite, Louisiana, where the band’s raw energy could have outshone bigger acts. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its inclusion on reissues, like the 2017 Rock Candy Records remaster, which included a deluxe booklet with band insights.

Lillian Axe got their start in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1983, emerging from the vibrant local music scene. Guitarist Steve Blaze, the band’s creative core, initially joined a band called Oz, which included Rick Bohrer on vocals, Orlando "Ace" Palacio on guitar, Michael "Maxx" Darby on bass, and Jeff Savelle on drums. When Palacio left, Blaze took over as lead guitarist and soon came up with the name Lillian Axe, inspired by a eerie scene from the horror movie Creepshow featuring a skeleton in a bridesmaid dress. As detailed on Wikipedia, the band’s early days were marked by lineup changes and gigs under the Oz name until they solidified their identity. By 1987, the classic lineup formed with Ron Taylor on vocals, Jon Ster on rhythm guitar, Rob Stratton on bass, and Danny King on drums, catching the attention of Ratt’s management and landing a deal with MCA Records.

The band’s journey wasn’t without challenges, as Blaze noted in interviews about tensions due to addiction issues among some members during the late ’80s. Despite this, their persistence paid off with the release of their self-titled debut in 1988, produced by Ratt’s Robbin Crosby, followed by the critically praised Love + War. Though commercial success eluded them due to poor label support, Lillian Axe built a loyal fanbase, evident in groups like the Lillian Axe Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks and others share memories and updates. The band’s resilience is reflected in their continued activity, with Blaze and bassist Michael Max Darby as the remaining original members, still rocking stages and releasing new music like their 2024 album From Womb to Tomb.

You can keep up with Lillian Axe through their official website, where they share updates like the touching story behind their song “No Problem,” written by Blaze as a lullaby for his son. Follow them on Facebook for tour announcements and fan interactions, or check out their Instagram for behind-the-scenes photos and videos. On X, they engage with fans and post about upcoming releases. For deeper dives into their legacy, fan sites like Heavy Harmonies offer detailed discographies, and the Lillian Axe Fans Facebook group is a great spot for Zoo Freaks to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share their love for tracks like "Show A Little Love."