Space Oddity

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Space Oddity" by Saigon Kick, a cover of David Bowie’s iconic track, featured on their 1993 album Water, not Blow My Fuse, which appears to be a mix-up as it’s an album by the band Kix. This rendition showcases Saigon Kick’s ability to blend harmonic hard rock with a touch of alternative flair, creating a shimmering, atmospheric take on Bowie’s classic. According to a post on the band’s official Facebook page from 2013, the Water album, including "Space Oddity," has gained a cult following, particularly in Indonesia, where the band was once described as "bigger than The Beatles." The cover is noted for its lush production, helmed by guitarist Jason Bieler, who also took on lead vocals for the album, marking a significant shift after the departure of original vocalist Matt Kramer. Fans on the Saigon Kick Fan Club Facebook group often praise the track for its haunting fidelity to Bowie’s original while infusing it with Saigon Kick’s signature melodic intensity. The song’s inclusion on Water, which was recently re-released on vinyl for the first time via Real Gone Music, has made it a collector’s gem, as noted in an eBay listing for the vinyl.

Saigon Kick’s journey with "Space Oddity" is further highlighted by their 2023 #H20Three0h tour, which celebrated the 30th anniversary of Water. A District 142 event page mentions that the tour featured original members Bieler, bassist Chris McLernon, and drummer Phil Varone, performing the song alongside other fan favorites. The band’s Instagram shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of these performances, showing the emotional connection fans have with the track. Interestingly, the choice to cover "Space Oddity" reflects Saigon Kick’s willingness to experiment, a trait evident in their diverse discography. While no direct quotes from interviews about the song’s recording process surfaced, Bieler’s role as producer likely shaped its unique sound, blending hard rock grit with a dreamy, almost psychedelic edge, as discussed in fan posts on X.

Saigon Kick formed in 1988 in Coral Springs, Florida, when vocalist Matt Kramer and guitarist Jason Bieler teamed up with bassist Tom DeFile and drummer Phil Varone. The quartet honed their craft on the local club circuit, building a loyal following with their blend of heavy metal crunch and Beatles-esque harmonies, as described on Rate Your Music. Their self-titled debut in 1991 earned critical acclaim but limited commercial success. It was their second album, The Lizard, released in 1992, that broke through, reaching number 80 on the Billboard 200, driven by the gold-certified single "Love Is on the Way," which hit number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The band’s early days were marked by relentless gigging and a buzz that led to a deal with Third Stone Records in 1990, as noted in their Wikipedia bio. Despite lineup changes, including Kramer’s exit before Water, Saigon Kick’s core creativity persisted, with Bieler stepping into the vocal role and steering the band’s evolution.

Today, fans can stay connected with Saigon Kick through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates on tours and re-releases. The Saigon Kick Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community where Zoo Freaks and other devotees discuss the band’s legacy, share rare photos, and organize meetups for shows. While no other dedicated fan websites were found, the band’s presence on platforms like Last.fm offers additional insights into their discography and fanbase. Saigon Kick’s enduring appeal lies in their ability to balance raw energy with thoughtful artistry, making their "Space Oddity" a fitting anthem for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic airwaves.