When You See Me Again

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the hard-hitting track "When You See Me Again" by Saraya from their 1991 album When The Blackbird Sings for all the Zoo Freaks out there. This song, clocking in at 4:37, is a standout with its raw energy and echoes of Joan Jett and The Runaways, blending gritty guitar riffs with Sandi Saraya’s powerful vocals. Fans on Reddit have called it a catchy tune, with one user lamenting it wasn’t released as a single, noting its infectious hook and emotional depth. The song’s vibe captures a defiant, seductive rocker attitude, drawing comparisons to Heart’s Ann Wilson, as noted in an Amazon review. Its lyrics, paired with Tony “Bruno” Rey’s stinging guitar work, make it a fan favorite, often highlighted alongside tracks like “Bring Back the Light” for its dark, emotional resonance.

Delving into the trivia, "When You See Me Again" is part of an album that marked a shift for Saraya, moving toward a heavier, guitar-driven sound after keyboardist Gregg Munier left during recording due to creative differences. Produced by Peter Collins, known for his work with Queensrÿche and Rush, the album’s polished yet raw edge shines through in this track. A 2021 blog post on Southeast of Heaven describes the song as having a “broken-hearted” feel with a mix of desperation and optimism, resonating deeply with listeners rediscovering the album decades later. The track’s swagger and Sandi Saraya’s commanding presence evoke a sense of rebellion, with some fans speculating it channels the band’s frustration with industry pressures, as Sandi refused to be marketed solely as a “sex symbol” despite MTV attention.

Saraya’s story began in New Jersey in 1987, when vocalist Sandi Saraya and keyboardist Gregg Munier formed a band initially called Alsace Lorraine. Inspired by artists like Chrissie Hynde, Ann Wilson, and Glenn Hughes (particularly his Hughes/Thrall album, as Sandi mentioned in a 1989 Kerrang interview), they crafted a melodic hard rock sound. After a failed stint in Los Angeles left them broke, they returned to New Jersey, where they met mentor Sandy Lizner. He connected them with management and a PolyGram Records deal. Joined by guitarist Tony “Bruno” Rey (ex-Danger Danger), bassist Gary Taylor, and drummer Chuck Bonfante, they adopted the name Saraya, with Sandi as the focal point. Their 1989 self-titled debut, featuring hits like “Love Has Taken Its Toll,” reached #79 on the Billboard 200, earning them the “new Bon Jovi” label. Despite internal struggles and a changing musical landscape, When The Blackbird Sings solidified their legacy as a female-fronted hard rock blueprint.

While Saraya disbanded in 1992, their music lives on through fan communities and reissues, like the 2021 remaster by Bad Reputation Records. Sandi Saraya, now living in Palm Springs with her husband, actor Brendan Kell, and their five children, has been linked to potential new projects, including a rumored third album mentioned by Tesla’s Brian Wheat in 2017 and a 2019 interview on The Hussle Podcast. Fans can connect with Saraya’s legacy on platforms like Mott the Dog’s Rock Music Reviews Facebook group, where enthusiasts share reviews and memories. Official social media for Saraya is sparse, but Tony “Bruno” Rey remains active in the industry, working with artists like Rihanna and Enrique Iglesias. Check out fan-driven discussions on Instagram under #Saraya or explore their discography on Discogs. No official website or dedicated Facebook or X accounts exist for the band, but their music continues to rock the airwaves for Zoo Freaks everywhere.