Double Trouble

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Double Trouble" by The Cars from their 1987 album Door to Door, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this new wave vibe! This track holds a special place in the band’s history as it was one of the songs that harkened back to their raw, early sound. According to Wikipedia, "Double Trouble" was originally a demo recorded in 1977, but it wasn’t until Door to Door that it got a proper studio treatment. The band enjoyed the tune so much that they revisited it a decade later, giving it a polished yet gritty edge that reflected their attempt to return to their punk-influenced roots. This was a deliberate move away from the heavily synthesized sounds of their previous albums like Heartbeat City, as noted in a Rhino article, which highlights how the band wanted to strip back the studio tricks for a more authentic feel.

Another tidbit about "Double Trouble" comes from its context within Door to Door, which was a challenging album for The Cars. The album, produced by frontman Ric Ocasek, faced critical and commercial disappointment, as mentioned on TV Tropes. The band’s tour for the album was plagued by low attendance, and Ocasek, who disliked touring, was reportedly miserable, contributing to the band’s breakup in 1988. Despite this, "Double Trouble" stands out for its catchy rhythm and lyrics, embodying the band’s signature blend of new wave and power pop. Fans on Last.fm have praised the song’s energy, with some calling it an underrated gem that captures the band’s early spirit. The 1977 demo version of the song was later included in the 1995 compilation Just What I Needed: The Cars Anthology, giving Zoo Freaks a chance to hear its raw origins.

The Cars got their start in Boston in 1976, emerging from the vibrant new wave scene of the late 1970s. The band was formed by Ric Ocasek (rhythm guitar and vocals), Benjamin Orr (bass and vocals), Elliot Easton (lead guitar), Greg Hawkes (keyboards), and David Robinson (drums). Before becoming The Cars, Ocasek and Orr had been in several bands together, including Milkwood, a folk-rock outfit, but found their groove with a sound that blended punk minimalism, synth-pop, and rockabilly, as described by music critic Robert Palmer in Wikipedia. Their big break came when their demo for "Just What I Needed" got heavy airplay on Boston radio stations like WBCN, leading to a deal with Elektra Records in 1977. Their self-titled debut album in 1978 was a massive hit, selling six million copies and charting for 139 weeks, cementing their place as new wave pioneers.

The Cars’ official website is thecars.org, where fans can find discography details and band history. Their official Facebook page shares updates and throwback posts, while their Instagram features vintage photos and album art. On X, the band’s account often celebrates milestones, like a 2020 post about the 42nd anniversary of their debut album recording. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with other fans, the The Cars Fan Club on Facebook is a lively group where enthusiasts share memories and rare finds. Another fan-driven site, The Cars Fan Club, offers newsletters and exclusive content for dedicated followers. Whether you’re grooving to "Double Trouble" or diving into the band’s history, The Cars’ legacy continues to rock the airwaves!