I Can See for Miles

The Zoo Crew is spinning I Can See for Miles by Styx from their 2005 covers album Big Bang Theory, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this rocking rendition of The Who's classic. In a Styxworld interview, Tommy Shaw shared that covering I Can See for Miles was a thrill because he’d never been in a band that tackled The Who’s songs before. He leaned on his bandmates to keep the track authentic, noting it was “right up JY’s alley” since Styx often jammed on Who tunes during soundchecks. Shaw admitted the song felt surprisingly natural for him, fitting his vocal style more than he expected. This cover stands out for its complex choral arrangements, a signature Styx touch, which adds a fresh layer to the original without straying too far from its raw energy.

Fan reactions to the track vary, but many appreciate Styx’s bold approach. A review on Progarchives praised the band for not mimicking The Who’s style too closely, instead infusing their own flair with intricate harmonies. However, some critics, like those on Rate Your Music, felt the cover was solid but didn’t outshine the original, calling it a polished take that lacks the gritty edge of the 1967 classic. On Amazon, a fan highlighted the “crystal clear sound” of Styx’s vocals and instrumentation, making it a standout on the album for those who enjoy their modern spin on 60s and 70s rock.

Styx began in Chicago in 1972, evolving from a group of local musicians into a powerhouse known for blending hard rock, progressive elements, and theatrical flair. Originally called The Tradewinds, the band was formed by brothers Chuck and John Panozzo, along with Dennis DeYoung. They changed their name to Styx, inspired by the mythical river, and built a following through relentless local gigs. Their early albums, like Styx (1972) and Styx II (1973), leaned heavily into prog rock, drawing comparisons to Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The breakthrough came with Lady from Styx II, which soared to number six on the charts in 1974 after heavy radio play. Signing with A&M Records for 1975’s Equinox and adding Tommy Shaw solidified their sound, leading to platinum-selling albums like The Grand Illusion (1977) and Pieces of Eight (1978).

Despite lineup changes and internal tensions, particularly between Shaw and DeYoung over the band’s direction, Styx remained a force. DeYoung’s departure in 1999 marked a shift, with Lawrence Gowan stepping in on vocals and keyboards. The Big Bang Theory lineup, including Shaw, James Young, Gowan, Todd Sucherman, and Ricky Phillips, showcased their versatility by tackling covers while staying true to their arena-rock roots. Their ability to adapt kept them relevant, with hits like Come Sail Away and Renegade still staples on classic rock radio.

Connect with Styx on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates, tour dates, and behind-the-scenes content. Fans can also join the vibrant Styx Fans Facebook group to share their love for the band, discuss favorite tracks like I Can See for Miles, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. For more fan-driven content, check out Styx Collector, a dedicated fan site with discographies, memorabilia, and news.