Blacktop Therapy

The song Blacktop Therapy by Pröwess is a high-octane anthem that captures the gritty, free-spirited essence of classic hard rock, perfectly suited for the Zoo Crew's vinyl-spinning vibe at THE ZOO radio station. According to a review from Real Rock and Roll, the track kicks off with the literal sound of screeching tires, setting the stage for its heavy riffs and infectious energy that make it feel like a wild ride down an open highway. The song’s raw power and swagger were highlighted when it was described as embodying the “sweat and beer, smoke and whiskey” vibe of true rock and roll, a sentiment that surely resonates with the Zoo Freaks tuning in. Produced by Tuk Smith, formerly of Biters, the track benefited from his knack for crafting punchy, attitude-filled rock anthems, with Smith co-writing it alongside band members to ensure it crackled with personality.

Another piece of trivia comes from the song’s reception and its place on the album. CGCM Rock Radio noted that Blacktop Therapy as the title track sets the tone for the entire album, blending 70s and 80s hard rock influences with a modern edge, evoking the image of cruising in a muscle car through barren grasslands. The album’s release party for Blacktop Therapy was held on January 3, 2020, at Amos’ Southend in Charlotte, North Carolina, a venue known for its vibrant music scene, where Pröwess unleashed their live energy to celebrate the launch. Fans on Pröwess’s Facebook page have shared posts raving about the song’s ability to get their heads banging, with one commenting that it’s the kind of track that “makes you wanna floor it and never look back,” a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s rebellious, free-spirited playlist.

Pröwess began their journey in 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina, emerging from the ashes of the band 21st Century Goliath. Guitarist Scott Roby, a seasoned musician who had previously spent time behind bars, led the charge to form a new outfit with a fresh vision, renaming the group Pröwess to reflect their skill and boldness, as their Facebook bio proudly declares: “We are the unicorn. The dragon. The mythical creature that you thought long extinct.” With new frontman Dalton Bowes, whose gritty vocals became a defining feature, the band hit the ground running, releasing their debut single “No Survivors” in April 2016, produced by Jamie King. Their early days were marked by relentless touring across the U.S., opening for acts like Ace Frehley and building a loyal fanbase through their electrifying live shows, as noted in a Hairband Heaven article.

The band’s first EP, Headfirst, dropped in 2017, showcasing their raw energy and classic rock influences, followed by the live EP Roll’n with the Punches in 2018, which captured their stage prowess. By the time they recorded Blacktop Therapy in 2019, Pröwess had refined their sound with a lineup featuring Roby, Bowes, guitarist Curly Staples, bassist Kenny Mange, and drummer Brandon Chinn. Their commitment to paying their dues on the road, as highlighted in a Sleaze Roxx review, fueled the album’s explosive energy, making it a standout for fans and critics alike. Pröwess’s story is one of grit, reinvention, and a passion for keeping the spirit of hard rock alive, a narrative that aligns perfectly with the Zoo Crew’s hippie DJ ethos.

You can connect with Pröwess on their official website, where they share updates and merch, or follow them on social media at Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest news and fan interactions. While dedicated fan websites are scarce, the band has a strong presence on Facebook, where fans frequently post about shows and share love for tracks like Blacktop Therapy. There’s also a notable fan-driven Pröwess Rocks Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and other devotees swap stories, post concert photos, and celebrate the band’s hard-hitting sound, making it a great spot for the Zoo Crew’s listeners to join the community.