Morning Star

The Zoo Crew is spinning the electrifying track "Morning Star" by the Philip Sayce Group, from their self-titled 1997 album, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its blues-rock energy. This song, clocking in at about five minutes, is a standout with its hypnotic groove and searing guitar riffs, perfectly showcasing Philip Sayce’s virtuosity. According to SongData.io, "Morning Star" is set at 78 BPM in A♭ Major, delivering a high-energy yet soulful vibe that’s not overly danceable but brimming with positive intensity. The lyrics, as noted on Genius, paint a vivid picture: “Morning Star shook me from my sleep / Callin' me up from a dream so deep,” evoking a cosmic journey through the mind’s eye. Interestingly, a 2013 YouTube post highlighted Sayce as an underrated gem in blues-rock, suggesting "Morning Star" has long been a favorite among dedicated fans for its raw, guitar-driven power.

While specific interviews or social media posts about "Morning Star" are scarce, Sayce’s passion for authentic performance shines through in related content. A 2019 Rock and Blues Muse review of a live show described Sayce’s performances as “raw emotion and energy,” qualities that likely infuse "Morning Star" given its dynamic composition. Additionally, a Facebook post titled “Morning Star - Live and Up Close” hints at the song’s captivating presence in live settings, where Sayce’s guitar work and stage charisma take center stage. Fans on platforms like Last.fm also celebrate the track, with its video and artwork frequently shared, underscoring its enduring appeal within the blues-rock community.

Philip Sayce, the driving force behind the Philip Sayce Group, was born in Aberystwyth, Wales, on June 3, 1976, and moved to Toronto, Canada, at age two. Growing up in a music-loving household, his parents, Kenneth and Sheila, introduced him to legends like Eric Clapton, Ry Cooder, and Dire Straits, sparking his lifelong passion for the guitar. Sayce also played piano and trombone for over a decade, showcasing his musical versatility. By 15, he was jamming in his first band with his best friend, drummer Cassius Pereira, practicing in their basements. Influenced by Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan—whose 1990 death deeply impacted the young guitarist—Sayce began performing in Toronto clubs at 16, becoming a fixture at venues like Grossman’s Tavern and The Silver Dollar. His big break came in 1997 when he joined Jeff Healey’s band, touring globally for three and a half years, including a notable performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival.

Sayce’s career skyrocketed as he collaborated with artists like Melissa Etheridge, appearing on her albums and performing at high-profile events like the 2007 Academy Awards and Live Earth. His solo journey took off with the 2009 album Peace Machine, followed by releases like Innerevolution (2010) and Spirit Rising (2020), the latter dedicated to his father. Today, Sayce continues to captivate audiences with his soulful vocals and unparalleled guitar skills, as evidenced by his 2024 single “Hole In Your Soul” and upcoming album. You can follow his journey on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans also gather on platforms like Last.fm and engage in communities such as the Philip Sayce Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks can connect and share their love for his music.