Nothing Compares To You

The Zoo Crew is spinning the high-energy track "Nothing Compares To You" by Santa Cruz from their debut album Screaming For Adrenaline, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the glam metal vibes. This song, released in 2013, is a standout on the album, showcasing the band’s raw, sleazy hard rock sound inspired by ‘80s legends like Guns N’ Roses and Mötley Crüe. According to a review by Metal Temple Magazine, the track is part of an album filled with “attitude” and “virtuoso guitar playing,” with the band’s frontman, Archie Cruz, channeling a young Axl Rose in his vocal delivery. The song’s music video, directed by T. Jaakola and released on August 30, 2013, captures the band’s rebellious spirit, featuring gritty visuals that match the song’s relentless energy. Fans on social media platforms like YouTube have praised its “epic” guitar solos and catchy chorus, with one commenter noting, “How can someone dislike this epic music????” The track was also released as a single in 2013, alongside other hits like “Relentless Renegades” and “Alive,” cementing its place as a fan favorite.

Delving into the song’s creation, Santa Cruz aimed to craft an album that felt authentic to their influences while standing out in the crowded sleaze rock scene. In a 2013 interview with Metal Temple, the band discussed how they meticulously wrote songs with “a lot of thinking behind each move,” ensuring dynamic breaks and changes throughout Screaming For Adrenaline. “Nothing Compares To You” reflects this approach, blending a powerful chorus with intricate guitar work that reviewers compared to Slash’s iconic style. The song’s lyrics, available on Lyrics Camp, exude a sense of untamed passion, fitting the band’s youthful, renegade persona. Interestingly, the album version of some tracks, including this one, stirred debate among fans who preferred the rawer sound of the band’s earlier EP, Anthem for the Young ‘n’ Restless. A blogger on Izzy’s World noted that while the album’s production polished the tracks, “Nothing Compares To You” retained the band’s signature edge, earning it a spot among the album’s “damn close to perfect” songs.

Santa Cruz began their journey in 2007 in Helsinki, Finland, founded by Arttu “Archie” Kuosmanen (vocals and guitar) and Joonas “Johnny” Parkkonen (guitar). As detailed in their Last.fm biography, the duo was soon joined by bassist Mitja “Middy” Toivonen in 2008, and after cycling through temporary drummers, Tapani “Taz” Fagerström solidified the lineup in 2009. Inspired by the gritty glamour of ‘80s hard rock, the band released two demos between 2008 and 2009, honing their sound. Their self-released EP, Anthem for the Young ‘n’ Restless, dropped in 2011, catching the attention of Spinefarm Records, which signed them in 2012. The release of Screaming For Adrenaline in 2013 marked their breakthrough, with the album’s sleazy, high-octane sound drawing comparisons to Ratt and Skid Row. Archie Cruz, the band’s charismatic frontman, has also collaborated with other Finnish rockers in The Local Band, featuring members of Children of Bodom and The 69 Eyes, showcasing his deep roots in the Helsinki music scene.

Fans can connect with Santa Cruz through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates on tours, new music, and behind-the-scenes content. The band’s official website, santacruzband.fi, offers merch, tour dates, and a glimpse into their latest projects, including their 2022 album Cruz 5. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online, such as the Santa Cruz Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share concert photos, discuss lyrics, and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy. While no official fan websites were found, platforms like SonicHits provide lyrics, song meanings, and discography details for dedicated listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new Zoo Freak, “Nothing Compares To You” and Santa Cruz’s story are a wild ride worth taking.