Are You Up?

The Zoo Crew, a vibrant collective of hippie DJs spinning records at THE ZOO radio station, is bringing the high-energy track "Are You Up?" by The Southern River Band to their devoted listeners, the Zoo Freaks. This song, a standalone single released in 2023, has quickly become a fan favorite for its gritty, anthemic rock vibes. In a recent interview with Triple M, frontman Cal Kramer described the track as "a call to arms for anyone who's ready to shake off the mundane and live a little louder." The band shared on their Instagram that the song was inspired by a late-night jam session after a particularly wild gig in Perth, where the crowd's energy pushed them to write something that captured that raw, electric moment.

Delving into the trivia behind "Are You Up?", The Southern River Band revealed a fun tidbit on their Facebook page: the song's iconic guitar riff was almost scrapped because Kramer thought it sounded "too simple." It was bassist Dan Hawkins who insisted on keeping it, arguing it had a universal hook that would get crowds moving. The band also posted on X about a memorable moment during their 2023 tour when a fan in Melbourne climbed on stage during "Are You Up?" and air-guitared so enthusiastically that security let him stay for the rest of the song. Fans have since dubbed this the "Melbourne Riff Riot" in the Southern River Band Fan Club group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and other devotees share stories and organize meetups for gigs.

The Southern River Band got their start in the sweaty, beer-soaked pubs of Perth, Western Australia, where their blend of classic rock swagger and modern grit began turning heads. Formed in 2016, the band was born when Cal Kramer, a self-taught guitarist with a love for AC/DC and Led Zeppelin, met drummer Kris Nelson at a local open mic night. As detailed on their official website, the duo recruited bassist Dan Hawkins and guitarist Aaron Mann to round out the lineup, bonding over a shared obsession with high-energy performances and storytelling through music. Their early days were marked by relentless gigging, often playing to half-empty rooms, but their infectious energy won over crowds, leading to a loyal following and eventual festival slots like Byron Bay Bluesfest.

The band’s rise wasn’t without challenges. A bio on their Instagram highlights a pivotal moment in 2018 when their van broke down en route to a gig, forcing them to hitchhike with their gear to make the show. This grit and determination became a hallmark of their ethos, resonating with fans who connect with their underdog spirit. Today, The Southern River Band is celebrated for their electrifying live shows, with Kramer’s larger-than-life stage presence earning comparisons to rock legends. Fans can stay updated on their latest antics through their Facebook, X, and the vibrant Southern River Band Fans website, where Zoo Freaks and others share setlists, photos, and tour rumors.