Bombs Away

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Bombs Away" by The Police, a track from their 1980 album Zenyatta Mondatta, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its urgent groove. This song, penned by drummer Stewart Copeland, stands out for its political edge, directly referencing the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. Copeland's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a complacent general and a fierce guerrilla girl, blending social commentary with the band's signature reggae-rock pulse. Interestingly, the song was demoed using a tape previously used by Siouxsie and the Banshees, adding a layer of punk DIY ethos to its creation. In a 1980 interview with Musicians Weekly, Copeland noted the album's lighter tone compared to their earlier work, saying it avoided the "heavy metal" of their first two records, which allowed tracks like "Bombs Away" to shine with a sharp, experimental edge.

Another tidbit about "Bombs Away" comes from its recording context. Zenyatta Mondatta was recorded in just four weeks at Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands, under intense pressure as the band juggled their second world tour. Copeland later reflected on the rushed process, saying, “We had bitten off more than we could chew. We finished the album at 4 a.m. on the day we were starting our next world tour.” This chaotic schedule infused the song with a raw, frenetic energy that fans on r/ThePolice often praise, with one Redditor noting the “guitar and drums in Bombs Away simply kill” for their dynamic interplay. The track’s Middle Eastern-inspired guitar solo by Andy Summers also adds an exotic flair, which Rolling Stone likened to an outtake from the Midnight Express soundtrack, showcasing the band’s knack for blending global influences.

The Police began their journey in London in 1977, born from the punk and reggae scenes that defined the late '70s. Sting, a former schoolteacher named Gordon Sumner, was playing jazz and rock gigs in Newcastle when he caught the attention of Stewart Copeland, an American drummer with a worldly background, having grown up in the Middle East. Copeland, fresh off stints with progressive rock band Curved Air, was itching to form a raw, new sound. They recruited guitarist Andy Summers, a seasoned player who’d toured with acts like The Animals and Soft Machine, to complete the trio. Their early days were scrappy, with the band dyeing their hair blond for a gum commercial to fund their first tour. Their debut single, “Roxanne,” initially flopped but caught fire after a U.S. radio station picked it up in 1979, launching them into global stardom. This mix of punk energy, reggae rhythms, and Sting’s emotive vocals defined their rise, culminating in albums like Zenyatta Mondatta.

Fans can connect with The Police through their official Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates, throwback photos, and tour memories. The official website offers a deep dive into their discography and legacy, including details on Zenyatta Mondatta. For Zoo Freaks looking to join the fandom, PoliceWiki is a treasure trove of fan-curated trivia, from setlists to rare interviews. The r/ThePolice subreddit is another lively spot, with 4.2K members swapping stories and debating favorites like “Bombs Away.” There’s also a Facebook group, The Police Fans, where enthusiasts post memorabilia and discuss the band’s enduring impact. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new Zoo Freak, these platforms keep the spirit of The Police alive.