External Combustion

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as we spin "External Combustion" by Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs from their killer album of the same name! This title track is a high-octane blast of rock 'n' roll, recorded at Campbell’s home studio, Hocus Pocus Recorders, in Los Angeles. In a Forbes interview, Campbell shared that the song captures the band’s spontaneous energy, with most tracks, including this one, nailed in just one or two takes. The album’s name, "External Combustion," popped into Campbell’s head as a twist on "internal combustion," reflecting the band’s explosive, raw vibe. He told American Songwriter it’s about the band’s chemistry, which feels like a fiery reaction you can’t contain. The song’s gritty, guitar-driven sound channels the spirit of classic rock with a nod to the band’s garage roots, making it a perfect fit for our free-spirited airwaves.

Another cool tidbit about "External Combustion" comes from its production process. Campbell revealed in a Guitar World interview that the band aimed to keep overdubs to a minimum, capturing the live, in-the-moment feel of their performances. This track, like others on the album, was produced with George Drakoulias, a veteran who’s worked with Tom Petty and The Black Crowes, adding a polished yet unfiltered edge. The song’s lyrics and driving rhythm evoke a sense of freedom and rebellion, resonating with the Zoo Crew’s hippie ethos. Fans on The Dirty Knobs’ Facebook have raved about how the track feels like a love letter to rock’s golden era, with one post calling it “Tom Petty’s spirit meeting a grungier, modern twist.” It’s no wonder this tune has become a staple for our Zoo Freaks craving that authentic rock fix.

Now, let’s dive into how Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs got their start. Mike Campbell, born February 1, 1950, in Jacksonville, Florida, is a legendary guitarist best known for his 40-year tenure with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. His journey began in Gainesville, Florida, where he met Tom Petty through drummer Randall Marsh in the early 1970s. According to Wikipedia, Marsh was auditioning for Petty’s band Mudcrutch and suggested Campbell, his roommate, as a guitarist. Campbell wowed Petty with a rendition of “Johnny B. Goode,” earning a spot in Mudcrutch, which became a popular act in Florida before moving to Los Angeles. Though Mudcrutch fizzled out after a single release, Campbell and Petty regrouped in 1976 to form the Heartbreakers, with Campbell co-writing hits like “Refugee” and “Runnin’ Down a Dream.” His work as a session guitarist for artists like Stevie Nicks and Don Henley further cemented his reputation.

The Dirty Knobs, Campbell’s passion project, started around 2000 as a side gig during Heartbreakers downtime. Campbell told AllMusic the band was a way to explore a rougher, guitar-heavy sound inspired by ‘60s bands like The Kinks and The Animals. Initially a loose club-date project with guitarist Jason Sinay, bassist Lance Morrison, and drummer Matt Laug, it became Campbell’s main focus after Petty’s sudden death in 2017. The band dropped their debut album, Wreckless Abandon, in 2020, followed by External Combustion in 2022 and Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits in 2024. Campbell’s shift to frontman showcased his songwriting chops and raw vocal style, proving he’s more than just a sideman. The Knobs’ chemistry, honed over nearly two decades, shines through in their live shows, which Campbell describes as “spontaneous and exciting” in a Forbes chat.

For more on Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs, check out their official website for tour dates and merch. Stay connected with the band on Facebook, Instagram, and X, where they share behind-the-scenes pics and updates. Zoo Freaks can also join the Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers Fans Facebook group, where Knobs fans often post about Campbell’s latest work. For fan-driven content, TomPetty.com includes Knobs-related news, celebrating Campbell’s legacy. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let’s keep the "External Combustion" vibes burning bright!