Summer in the City

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic cover of Summer in the City by Styx, from their 2005 album Big Bang Theory, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the gritty vibe! This track, originally by The Lovin’ Spoonful in 1966, was reimagined by Styx with a raw, rock edge that stays true to the original’s urban heat while adding their signature polish. According to a review on Amazon.com, fans particularly praise how Styx’s crystal-clear sound, vocals, and instrumentation breathe new life into this ’60s hit, with some even calling it their favorite track on the album. The band recorded this cover as part of their first-ever covers album, sparked by the success of their live performance of The Beatles’ I Am the Walrus at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Festival in 2004. In a Prog Archives review, fans noted that Tommy Shaw’s energetic delivery on Summer in the City makes it a standout, showcasing Styx’s ability to honor the past while making it their own.

Another tidbit about Summer in the City comes from its reception among fans. A Fun Trivia quiz dedicated to the Big Bang Theory album highlights how Styx retained the song’s raw rock sound while giving it a modern, revived feel. Some fans on Last.fm have shared that the track’s driving rhythm and vivid lyrics about urban summer heat make it a perfect fit for Styx’s theatrical style. While no specific interviews or social media posts from the band dive deeply into this song, their official Facebook page has celebrated the Big Bang Theory album’s legacy, noting its chart success (reaching No. 46 on the Billboard Top 200) and its role in showcasing their versatility. The Zoo Crew might also tell their listeners that, despite mixed reviews about some covers on the album, Summer in the City is often cited as a highlight for its faithful yet fresh take.

Styx got their start in Chicago in 1972, evolving from a group of local musicians into one of America’s most iconic rock bands. Originally formed by brothers Chuck and John Panozzo, along with Dennis DeYoung, the band began as TW4 before adopting the name Styx, inspired by the mythological river. According to their bio on AllMusic, they honed a progressive rock sound in the early ’70s, blending hard rock guitars with acoustic elements and theatrical flair. Their breakthrough came with 1977’s The Grand Illusion, featuring hits like Come Sail Away. Over the years, lineup changes brought in key members like Tommy Shaw and James “JY” Young, who helped steer the band toward a pop-rock and soft-rock blend in the ’80s. Their ability to meld genres—prog, hard rock, and ballads—made them a staple of classic rock radio, with enduring hits like Lady and Renegade.

Fans can stay connected with Styx through their official website at styxworld.com, where they share tour dates, news, and merch. On social media, the band is active on Facebook, Instagram, and X, posting about their latest tours, like the 2025 “Brotherhood of Rock” tour with Kevin Cronin and Don Felder. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online. The Styx Fans Facebook Group is a lively space where fans share memories, discuss albums like Big Bang Theory, and post about concerts. Another great resource is Styx Collector, a fan site dedicated to the band’s discography, memorabilia, and history, perfect for any die-hard Zoo Freak wanting to geek out over Styx’s legacy.