Crash and Burn

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "Crash and Burn" by the Pat Travers Band, from their 1980 album of the same name, for all you Zoo Freaks out there. This song, a departure from the band's typical guitar-driven sound, is a keyboard-heavy groove powered by the rhythm section of bassist Peter "Mars" Cowling and drummer Tommy Aldridge. According to a fan on the Dinosaur Rock Guitar Forum, the track stands out for its unique vibe, with some calling it a precursor to experimental rock, blending elements that sound like Alice in Chains or even Holst’s The Planets. The album’s slick production marked a shift from the band’s raw blues roots, which some fans on Reddit noted as both a commercial move and a creative risk. One fan shared a story of wearing out their cassette of the album in the ‘80s, playing it non-stop in their car, a testament to its enduring appeal.

Another piece of trivia comes from Amazon reviews, where a listener described the song’s “down-tempo rock sound” as “cool back in the day,” highlighting its moody, almost progressive feel. However, not all feedback was glowing—some fans on the Classic Rock Forum felt the album’s polished production and covers, like Bob Marley’s “Is This Love,” didn’t match the grit of earlier releases. A German reviewer on Amazon raved about the keyboard-driven elements, comparing them to the soulful vibes of Grand Funk Railroad, showing how the song resonated across borders. The track’s experimental edge, especially in its layered effects, was praised by a blogger on No Opinions Here, who called it “gripping, passionate experimental rock” that redeems the album’s weaker moments.

Pat Travers, the mastermind behind the band, was born in Toronto, Canada, on April 12, 1954. His journey began at age 12 when he witnessed Jimi Hendrix perform in Ottawa, an experience that ignited his passion for the guitar. By his teens, Travers was gigging in local bands like The Music Machine, Red Hot, and Merge, playing clubs in Quebec. His big break came when rock artist Ronnie Hawkins spotted him performing with Merge and invited him to join his band. In his early 20s, Travers took a bold leap, moving to London with just a black Fender Telecaster, a Marshall Amp, and a wah-wah pedal. He secured a deal with Polydor Records, releasing his self-titled debut album in 1976, which featured his longtime bassist Peter "Mars" Cowling. His early years were marked by relentless touring in Europe, building a loyal fanbase, as noted on his official website.

Travers’ raw, edgy tone and barroom boogie aesthetic made him a standout in the ‘70s hard rock scene. His eight-album run with Polydor, including hits like “Boom Boom (Out Go the Lights)” and “Snortin’ Whiskey,” earned him seven Top 200 chart placements, according to Apple Music. Fans, who call themselves “Hammer Heads,” have kept his legacy alive through communities like the Pat Travers Band Fan Group on Facebook. You can follow Travers’ latest updates on his Facebook page, Instagram, and X account. Despite lineup changes, including the departure of key members like Tommy Aldridge and Pat Thrall after Crash and Burn, Travers remains a road warrior, touring over 150 dates a year, as per his bio.