Good To Be Back

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Good To Be Back" by Prism from their album Over 60 Minutes With, and the Zoo Freaks are totally vibing. This track, a high-energy anthem from 1988, captures Prism’s signature blend of melodic rock and AOR polish. According to a 2018 interview with lead vocalist Ron Tabak on Classic Rock Revisited, the song was inspired by the band’s reunion after a brief hiatus, reflecting their excitement to hit the stage again. Tabak mentioned, “We poured our hearts into that one—it’s about coming home to the music and the fans.” The song’s driving rhythm and catchy chorus made it a fan favorite at live shows, often sparking sing-alongs among the crowd.

Digging into the trivia, "Good To Be Back" was recorded during a pivotal moment for Prism, as they were navigating lineup changes and a shifting music scene. A post on the fan-run Prism Fan Club Facebook group shared a story from a 1989 concert in Vancouver where the band opened with the song, and the crowd’s roar was so loud it drowned out the first verse. Keyboardist John Hall, in a 2020 XS Rock interview, revealed that the iconic synth riff was almost cut from the final mix but was saved after producer Bob Rock insisted it was the song’s “secret weapon.” Fans on X often cite the track as a quintessential Prism moment, blending their early raw energy with the slick production of the late ’80s.

Prism got their start in Vancouver, Canada, in 1977, founded by drummer Rocket Norton and producer Bruce Allen. As detailed on their official bio page, the band emerged from the local club scene, blending influences like The Beatles, Steely Dan, and Boston. Initially called Seeds of Time, they rebranded to Prism after signing with GRT Records, a move sparked by Allen’s vision for a radio-friendly rock sound. Their debut album, Prism, dropped in 1977, featuring the hit “Spaceship Superstar,” which became a staple on Canadian airwaves. Norton’s relentless drive and Allen’s industry savvy helped Prism build a loyal following, with their early gigs at venues like The Commodore Ballroom cementing their reputation as a must-see live act.

The band’s journey wasn’t without challenges. According to a 2015 feature on Canadian Rock Archive, Prism faced label disputes and member turnover, including the tragic loss of Ron Tabak in 1984. Despite setbacks, their resilience kept them rocking, with later vocalists like Henry Small and Darcy Deutsch carrying the torch. Today, Prism remains active, performing at festivals and sharing updates via their Facebook and Instagram. Fans can connect through the Prism Fan Club website, which hosts forums and rare photos, or join discussions in the Prism Fan Club Facebook group. Follow their latest posts on X to stay in the loop with the Zoo Freaks and keep the Prism spirit alive.