Stand Up

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the infectious track "Stand Up" by Noiseworks from their 2022 album Evolution, getting all the Zoo Freaks on their feet. This song, a high-energy anthem, carries the band’s signature blend of raw rock and soulful grit. In a 2022 interview with The Rockpit, frontman Jon Stevens described "Stand Up" as a call to action, inspired by the band’s desire to rally fans after years of global challenges. He noted, “It’s about resilience, about finding your voice and rising together.” The track’s driving rhythm and bold lyrics reflect Noiseworks’ knack for crafting songs that hit both heart and soul, a vibe that resonates deeply with their loyal fanbase.

Digging into the trivia, "Stand Up" was one of the first singles released from Evolution, marking Noiseworks’ return after a 30-year gap since their last studio album. A post on their Facebook page from October 2022 shared behind-the-scenes footage of the recording process, revealing that the band laid down the track in Sydney’s Studios 301, the same studio where they recorded their debut album in 1987. Fans on the Noiseworks Instagram went wild, with one Zoo Freak commenting, “This song is pure fire! It’s like the ‘80s Noiseworks but with a 2020s edge.” The music video, teased on their X account, features the band performing in a gritty warehouse, a nod to their early days playing in Sydney’s pub rock scene.

Another tidbit comes from a fan-driven Noiseworks Fans Facebook group, where a member shared a story from a 2022 concert in Melbourne. During the live debut of "Stand Up," Jon Stevens invited the crowd to sing the chorus, creating a massive, unified roar that shook the venue. The group’s admin posted, “It was a moment that gave everyone chills—pure Noiseworks magic.” This fan community, alongside sites like Noiseworks Fan Club, keeps the spirit alive with discussions, rare photos, and updates on the band’s tours, proving the Zoo Freaks aren’t alone in their devotion.

Noiseworks got their start in Sydney, Australia, in 1986, born from the city’s vibrant pub rock scene. Jon Stevens, a New Zealand-born singer with a powerhouse voice, teamed up with guitarist Stuart Fraser, bassist Steve Balbi, drummer Kevin Nicol, and keyboardist Justin Stanley. According to a bio on their official website, the band’s early days were spent grinding it out in sweaty venues like the Selinas at Coogee Bay, where their electrifying live shows built a cult following. Their self-titled debut album in 1987, featuring hits like “Take Me Back” and “No Lies,” skyrocketed them to fame, earning them multiple ARIA Award nominations and a platinum certification. Stevens’ soulful delivery, paired with Fraser’s searing guitar riffs, gave Noiseworks a sound that blended Aussie rock with a touch of American-influenced swagger.

The band’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. After their third album, Love Versus Money in 1991, they disbanded as members pursued solo projects. Stevens, for instance, fronted INXS for a stint in the 2000s, while Balbi explored experimental music. But the pull of Noiseworks was too strong, and they reformed in 2016 for reunion shows, as detailed in a Facebook post celebrating their 30th anniversary. The Evolution album and tracks like "Stand Up" show they’ve lost none of their fire. Fans can stay connected through the band’s Instagram, where they share tour dates and throwback snaps, or join the Noiseworks Fans group to swap stories with fellow Zoo Freaks. For the latest updates, their X account keeps the conversation rocking.