A Dream Away

The Zoo Crew is spinning "A Dream Away" by The Cars from their 1981 album Shake It Up, and the Zoo Freaks are vibing to its hypnotic groove. This track stands out as a deep cut in the band's discography, often praised for its electronic, low-key atmosphere. According to a review on Rate Your Music, it's considered the most electronic song on the album, blending drum machine-like rhythms, bassy synths, and jangly guitars to create a "wonderful glowing hum" that's unlike much of The Cars' typical sound. Fans have noted its cruising, head-nodding feel, with one reviewer calling it a "hidden gem" that rivals the band's slower-burning synth-pop classic "Moving in Stereo." Despite its underappreciated status, the song's unique texture showcases the band's willingness to experiment, even on a pop-oriented album.

While specific interviews or quotes about "A Dream Away" are scarce, the album Shake It Up marked a pivotal moment for The Cars, as they leaned into a more commercial, dance-pop sound. The title track became their first top-10 Billboard hit, but "A Dream Away" offered a moodier, introspective contrast. Its lack of traditional vocal melody, as noted by some fans, adds to its hypnotic allure, making it a favorite for those who appreciate the band's quirkier side. The album's production by Roy Thomas Baker, known for his work with Queen, gave tracks like "A Dream Away" a polished yet experimental edge, reflecting The Cars' ability to bridge new wave and mainstream rock.

The Cars formed in Boston in 1976, emerging from the vibrant new wave scene. The band—Ric Ocasek (rhythm guitar, vocals), Benjamin Orr (bass, vocals), Elliot Easton (lead guitar), Greg Hawkes (keyboards), and David Robinson (drums)—came together after years of playing in various local acts. Ocasek and Orr, the creative core, had previously performed as an acoustic duo and in earlier bands like Milkwood and Cap'n Swing. Their big break came when a demo of "Just What I Needed" got heavy airplay on Boston radio stations, leading to a deal with Elektra Records in 1977. Their self-titled debut album in 1978, with hits like "My Best Friend's Girl," sold six million copies and established them as new wave pioneers. Music critic Robert Palmer praised their style as a blend of punk minimalism, art rock, and power pop, setting the stage for their innovative sound.

The band's official website is thecars.org, where fans can find discography details and updates. Their official Facebook page shares nostalgic posts and music clips, while their Instagram offers throwback photos and fan engagement. On X, the band has posted about milestones like the 1978 recording of their debut album, connecting with fans through retrospectives. For fan communities, The Cars Fan Club on their official site links to fan resources, and the The Cars Fan Group on Facebook is a lively space for Zoo Freaks to discuss the band’s legacy. These platforms keep the spirit of The Cars alive, perfect for diving deeper into tracks like "A Dream Away."