Evil Woman

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "Evil Woman" by Spooky Tooth from their seminal album Spooky Two, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its raw, bluesy energy. This song, a standout from the 1969 release, is a nine-minute powerhouse that showcases the band’s heavy, organ-driven sound. According to a retrospective review by AllMusic, "Evil Woman" blends free-styled rock with loose-fitting guitar riffs, creating a raw, almost Zeppelin-esque intensity that wasn’t common in its era. The song, penned by Larry Weiss, features a haunting Hammond organ intro that transitions into iconic guitar riffs, as noted by ClassicRockHistory.com. Fans on platforms like YouTube have shared nostalgic stories, with one commenter recalling how "Evil Woman" was a staple on 1970s compilation albums advertised on TV, evoking a sense of gritty coolness despite the band’s spooky name initially seeming intimidating.

Another piece of trivia comes from the song’s legacy in rock history. MusicEnthusiast.net highlights that "Evil Woman" has drawn comparisons to early Led Zeppelin, with its dual vocalists—Mike Harrison and Gary Wright—delivering a dynamic, blues-wrenching performance. Unlike the Electric Light Orchestra’s later song of the same name, Spooky Tooth’s version is a distinct, heavier beast, as clarified by ClassicRockHistory.com. A quirky fan anecdote from MarkPrindle.com jokingly references an urban legend that playing "Evil Woman" backwards reveals a hidden message about burying the band’s drummer, Mike Kellie, showcasing the playful mythos that surrounds the band’s cult following. The song’s influence even extends to other genres, with its raw energy inspiring covers and tributes, though none match the original’s visceral impact.

Spooky Tooth began their journey in Carlisle, England, in 1967, emerging from the ashes of a band called Art (formerly the V.I.P.’s). The founding members—guitarist Luther Grosvenor, vocalist Mike Harrison, drummer Mike Kellie, and bassist Greg Ridley—were joined by American keyboardist/vocalist Gary Wright, introduced by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, as detailed on Apple Music. This transatlantic fusion gave Spooky Tooth a unique edge, blending British blues-rock with American soul and progressive influences. Their debut album, It’s All About, released in 1968, laid the groundwork, but it was Spooky Two that cemented their reputation among classic rock aficionados. The band’s early years were marked by constant evolution, with members like Ridley later joining Humble Pie and Wright achieving solo fame with hits like "Dream Weaver."

Despite their critical acclaim, Spooky Tooth never achieved mainstream stardom, partly due to frequent lineup changes and experimental missteps like the 1969 album Ceremony, which Gary Wright himself described as a career-damaging collaboration with French composer Pierre Henry, according to Wikipedia. Yet, their cult status endures, with fans praising their ability to balance hard rock, blues, and gospel elements. The band reunited sporadically in the 1990s and 2000s, releasing Cross Purpose in 1999 and performing at events like Island Records’ 50th Anniversary in 2009. For the latest on Spooky Tooth, check out their official presence on Facebook and Instagram. Fans can also connect through the Spooky Tooth Fan Group on Facebook, a hub for Zoo Freaks and other devotees sharing memories and rare tracks.