Take Me For A Ride

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the infectious track "Take Me For A Ride" by The Sheepdogs from their album Paradise Alone, delighting their devoted Zoo Freaks. This song, described by frontman Ewan Currie as a "good old fashioned, dumb rock song," captures the carefree vibe of cruising with the windows down, a feeling Currie cherishes as the perfect kickoff for an album. The track’s roots trace back to a reflective moment in early 2023 when Currie found himself alone at a bar in the Florida Keys, sipping mezcal and soaking in the laid-back sounds of '80s and '90s country music. This experience, coupled with thoughts of turning 40 and the band’s 20th anniversary, inspired the raw, unpretentious energy of the song. Its glam-stomping rhythm and classic rock swagger make it a standout, with a visualizer released alongside the EP that amplifies its retro charm.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song’s place in The Sheepdogs’ journey toward independence. "Take Me For A Ride" is part of the Paradise Alone EP, the band’s first release on their own label, Right On Records. Bassist Ryan Gullen emphasized the significance of this move, noting that after 20 years, the band wanted to take control of their music and even help other artists do the same. The song’s production, led by Currie and recorded over five days in Memphis with Grammy-winning engineer Matt Ross-Spang, reflects their commitment to staying true to their rootsy, rock’n’roll sound. Fans on Facebook and Instagram have celebrated the track’s live-in-studio vibe, with some calling it a return to the band’s early, unpolished energy that first won them acclaim.

The Sheepdogs got their start in Saskatoon, Canada, in 2004, when Ewan Currie, Ryan Gullen, and Sam Corbett began jamming together, bonded by a shared love for classic rock, blues, and roots music. Their sound, often compared to the likes of The Allman Brothers and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, took shape in local bars where they honed their tight harmonies and riff-heavy grooves. The band’s big break came in 2012 when they won a contest to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone, a moment that catapulted them into the spotlight. Over the years, they’ve released multiple albums, earned four JUNO Awards, and built a loyal following with their relentless touring and authentic, no-frills approach. The addition of guitarist Ricky Paquette in 2022 brought fresh energy, with Paradise Alone marking his first official recording with the band.

Fans can connect with The Sheepdogs through their official website, where they share tour dates, merch, and updates on their independent ventures. Their Facebook page is a hub for fan discussions, live performance clips, and behind-the-scenes photos, while their Instagram offers a visual dive into their retro aesthetic and tour life. On X, the band engages with fans through quick updates and witty exchanges. For deeper fan interaction, the The Sheepdogs Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community where supporters share concert experiences, trade vinyl, and celebrate the band’s milestones. While no standalone fan websites were found, the band’s official channels and fan group provide plenty of ways for Zoo Freaks to stay in the loop.