It’s Not the Night

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with The Zoo Crew as we spin "It's Not the Night" by The Cars from their iconic album Heartbeat City. This track, though not released as a single, climbed to number 31 on the Top Rock Tracks chart, showcasing its gritty appeal. Sung by Benjamin Orr, the song delivers a punch with its wild new wave keyboards, bluesy vocals, and high-octane guitars that rip and roar, as noted by fans on Rate Your Music. Its creepily atmospheric vibe makes it a perfect fit for any mid-'80s thriller soundtrack, as suggested by Metro Weekly. The song's raw energy captures the essence of The Cars' ability to blend rock with new wave flair, making it a hidden gem in their catalog.

Delving into the creation of "It's Not the Night," the track was recorded at Battery Studios in London under the meticulous production of Robert John "Mutt" Lange, a departure from The Cars' usual producer, Roy Thomas Baker. Drummer David Robinson revealed that the band used a Fairlight CMI to sample drums and keyboards, giving the song a cleaner, more controllable sound. This innovative approach, combined with recording keyboards, guitars, and vocals to a LinnDrum click track before adding bass and drums, crafted the polished yet edgy sound that defines Heartbeat City. The album's success, including this track's chart performance, underscores The Cars' knack for evolving their sound while staying true to their new wave roots.

The Cars began their journey in Boston, Massachusetts, emerging from the vibrant punk and new wave scene of the mid-1970s. Formed in 1976, the band went through several incarnations before solidifying with Ric Ocasek on vocals and rhythm guitar, Benjamin Orr on vocals and bass, Elliot Easton on lead guitar, Greg Hawkes on keyboards, and David Robinson on drums. Their big break came in 1977 when they signed with Elektra Records after their demo tapes, particularly "Just What I Needed," caught the attention of radio stations like WBCN in Boston. Their self-titled debut album in 1978 was a smash hit, blending punk's raw energy with pop sensibilities, paving the way for their new wave legacy. The Cars' unique sound and quirky style made them a defining force in the late '70s and '80s music scene.

Though The Cars disbanded in 1988, they reunited for the 2011 album Move Like This, proving their enduring appeal. Sadly, Benjamin Orr passed away in 2000, and Ric Ocasek in 2019, but their music lives on through fans and tribute bands like Heartbeat City. You can connect with the band's legacy on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. Fans also gather at sites like The Cars Fan Club and The Cars Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can share their love for tracks like "It's Not the Night" and keep the new wave spirit alive.