Gimme Some Slack

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Gimme Some Slack" by The Cars from their 1980 album Panorama, a track that’s perfect for the Zoo Freaks vibing to its new wave energy. This song, one of the singles from the album, showcases The Cars’ signature blend of quirky synths and punchy guitar riffs. In an interview with Rock and Roll Globe, lead guitarist Elliot Easton shared that Panorama wasn’t a deliberate shift to a more experimental sound but rather a natural reflection of where the band, particularly singer-songwriter Ric Ocasek, was at creatively. Easton noted, “Ric would bring in a batch of his newest songs... and that’s just how that one came out,” highlighting the organic process behind tracks like "Gimme Some Slack." The song’s edgy, laid-back vibe, with lyrics like “I want to shake like Laguardia,” captures a playful yet rebellious spirit, making it a fan favorite for its offbeat charm.

Social media posts on X have celebrated "Gimme Some Slack" as an underappreciated gem. For instance, a post by DJ Jake Rudh on August 15, 2022, called it part of an “under-appreciated gem” in The Cars’ catalog, alongside other Panorama singles like “Touch and Go” and “Don’t Tell Me No.” The song’s production, featuring Greg Hawkes’ distinctive synth layers, was a bold move for 1980, as critics initially found Panorama darker and less accessible than The Cars’ earlier hits. Yet, fans on platforms like The Cars Fan Club on Facebook often praise "Gimme Some Slack" for its raw energy and how it captures the band’s willingness to push boundaries while staying true to their catchy, radio-friendly roots.

The Cars formed in Boston in 1976, evolving from earlier bands like Milkwood and Cap’n Swing, where Ric Ocasek and Benjamin Orr laid the groundwork for their sound. Ocasek, the primary songwriter, and Orr, whose vocals graced hits like “Just What I Needed,” met in Cleveland in the late 1960s, bonding over a shared love for rock and folk. After moving to Boston, they recruited Elliot Easton, Greg Hawkes, and David Robinson, finalizing the lineup. Their early gigs at local venues like The Rat in Boston built a 's a testament to their DIY ethos. Their self-titled debut album in 1978, with hits like “Just What I Needed” and “My Best Friend’s Girl,” skyrocketed them to fame, blending punk’s edge with pop sensibility. This success set the stage for Panorama, their third album, where they experimented with moodier tones while retaining their knack for hooks.

Fans can connect with The Cars’ legacy through their official website, though it’s more archival than active, offering discography and history. Their Facebook page shares occasional updates, like throwback photos and anniversary posts, while their Instagram features retro visuals and fan art. On X, the band’s account is less active but occasionally retweets fan content. Fan communities thrive on sites like The Cars Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memorabilia, concert stories, and trivia. Another fan hub, The Cars Online, offers detailed discographies and forum discussions, keeping the Zoo Freaks’ spirit alive with every spin of "Gimme Some Slack."