Scars (Live 2022)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the soulful riffs of "Scars (Live 2022)" by Smith/Kotzen, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this bluesy rock anthem. This track, captured live during the duo’s inaugural tour in 2022, is a standout from their debut album and was performed with raw energy at venues like the Islington Assembly Hall in London. Richie Kotzen described "Scars" as one of the first songs they wrote, noting its “moody and mysterious” vibe that draws listeners in, making it perfect for live guitar improvisation between him and Adrian Smith. Adrian Smith called it a song that “starts off with a dreamy intro then comes in heavy,” reflecting their shared love for 1970s blues rock. The live version, featured on the 2022 release Better Days …And Nights, was recorded with their stellar touring band, including Kotzen’s wife, bassist Julia Lage, and drummer Bruno Valverde, adding a familial chemistry to the performance. Kotzen used a chorus effect on "Scars" to achieve an eerie, Soundgarden-like atmosphere, showcasing his experimental side.

The song’s creation process was organic, born from the duo’s jam sessions in Los Angeles. Kotzen recalled how the writing was fluid, with Adrian sometimes sending a riff that sparked an immediate melody or lyric, like the haunting chorus of "Scars." The track nods to classic rock influences like Mountain and the Eagles, blending desert-rock vibes with West Coast cool. Fans on Smith/Kotzen’s Facebook went wild for the live video, praising the interplay of vocals and guitars, with one commenting, “This is what real rock sounds like!” The 2022 Islington show, described by MetalTalk as “alchemy,” had the crowd buzzing before the first note, with Smith and Kotzen clearly enjoying the intimate venue’s vibe. The song’s inclusion in their setlist was strategic, as Kotzen noted they carefully selected live tracks to capture the tour’s special energy for their fans.

Adrian Smith, best known as a guitarist for Iron Maiden, and Richie Kotzen, frontman of The Winery Dogs, formed Smith/Kotzen through a serendipitous friendship. Smith, born in Hackney, London, in 1957, started playing guitar as a teenager, inspired by Deep Purple and Gary Moore. He joined Iron Maiden in 1980, contributing to their iconic sound on albums like The Number of the Beast. His love for blues and classic rock led him to explore side projects, but Smith/Kotzen was a natural evolution. Kotzen, born in Pennsylvania in 1970, was a guitar prodigy, releasing his first solo album at 21. He gained fame with stints in Poison and Mr. Big, later forming The Winery Dogs. His versatile style, blending rock, blues, and R&B, caught Smith’s attention when they met through mutual friends, including tennis star Pat Cash, in Los Angeles. Their jam sessions, initially just for fun, sparked a creative partnership that led to their 2021 debut album.

The duo’s chemistry was instant, fueled by shared influences like Humble Pie and Cream. They recorded their first album in Turks and Caicos in 2020, just before the pandemic, with Smith recruiting Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain for one track and Kotzen handling drums on others. Their collaboration is marked by mutual respect, with Smith praising Kotzen’s virtuosity and melodic sense, while Kotzen, a lifelong Maiden fan, called working with Smith “pretty darn cool.” Their second album, Black Light / White Noise, released in 2025, further showcases their evolving sound. Fans can connect with them on Instagram, X, and Facebook. For deeper dives, check out fan communities like the Iron Maiden Fan Club on Facebook, where Smith/Kotzen discussions thrive, or follow Richie Kotzen’s solo updates on his personal Facebook and Instagram. Adrian Smith’s solo Instagram also offers glimpses into his musical journey.