Manic Depression

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Manic Depression" by Styx from their 2005 covers album Big Bang Theory, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this electrifying rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s classic. One juicy tidbit comes from Styx bassist Ricky Phillips, who shared in a Styxworld interview that playing "Manic Depression" was a dream come true for him as a lifelong Hendrix fan. He described the experience as both thrilling and humbling, jokingly admitting it felt like a "We’re not worthy!" moment after laying down the track. Phillips, a self-proclaimed "Hendrix freak" since childhood, leaned into the song’s raw energy, aiming to honor its psychedelic roots while adding Styx’s polished arena-rock flair. The band recorded much of the album at the historic Chess Studios in Chicago, specifically at 2120 South Michigan Avenue, which added a layer of authenticity to their cover, given the studio’s legacy with blues and rock legends like Muddy Waters and The Rolling Stones.

Another fun story behind the song’s inclusion on Big Bang Theory comes from guitarist James "JY" Young, who recounted in the same Styxworld feature how the album’s concept was born from a serendipitous moment. While parked on South Michigan Avenue, JY noticed that 2120 was now home to Willie Dixon’s Blues Heaven Foundation. Inspired, he pushed for Styx to record there, transforming the blues museum into a makeshift studio using modern Pro Tools technology. This setting fueled the band’s approach to "Manic Depression," with JY handling lead vocals and Tommy Shaw channeling Hendrix’s guitar style, as noted by a fan review on Amazon, which praised their respectful yet distinctive take. However, not all fans were sold—some, like a reviewer on Rate Your Music, felt the cover was too polished compared to Hendrix’s gritty original, sparking lively debates among the Zoo Freaks tuning in.

Styx, the band behind this cover, began their journey in Chicago in 1972, evolving from a group of neighborhood friends into one of America’s most enduring rock acts. Originally formed by brothers Chuck and John Panozzo (bassist and drummer) and vocalist/keyboardist Dennis DeYoung, the band started as Tradewinds before becoming Styx, named after the mythological river. According to their bio on Styxworld, they honed a unique blend of hard rock, progressive elements, and theatrical flair, signing their first record deal with Wooden Nickel Records in 1972. Early albums like Equinox (1975) and The Grand Illusion (1977) catapulted them to fame, with hits like "Come Sail Away" showcasing their knack for blending soaring melodies with intricate instrumentation. Over the decades, lineup changes—most notably Tommy Shaw joining in 1975 and Dennis DeYoung’s departure in 1999—shaped their sound, but Shaw and JY have kept the Styx flame burning, as evidenced by their bold covers on Big Bang Theory.

Styx’s official website is styxworld.com, where Zoo Freaks can find tour dates, merch, and news. Their social media presence is active on Facebook, Instagram, and X, offering glimpses into their tours and fan interactions. Fans also gather on dedicated spaces like the Styx Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant community where Zoo Freaks can swap stories, share concert photos, and debate the merits of covers like "Manic Depression." Another fan hub is styxtheband.com, a fan-run site packed with discographies and trivia. These platforms keep the Styx legacy alive, connecting fans across generations as the band continues to rock stages worldwide.