I.R.S. Blues

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious "I.R.S. Blues" by Tony Spinner from his 1996 album Crosstown Sessions, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving with its gritty blues-rock vibe. This song, nestled in the heart of the album’s tracklist, captures Spinner’s knack for blending sharp guitar riffs with relatable, tongue-in-cheek lyrics about the woes of dealing with the taxman. While specific interviews or social media posts about "I.R.S. Blues" are scarce, the song’s inclusion on Crosstown Sessions—released under Blues Bureau International—highlights Spinner’s ability to channel everyday frustrations into a rollicking blues anthem. The album itself is celebrated among blues-rock fans for its raw energy, with tracks like "I.R.S. Blues" showcasing Spinner’s vocal swagger and guitar prowess, as noted in reviews on sites like Trom'hell. One can imagine Spinner, with his history of touring with legends like Toto, penning this tune after a long day of navigating the financial grind of a musician’s life.

Delving into the trivia surrounding "I.R.S. Blues," the song’s production on Crosstown Sessions features a tight lineup, including Spinner on guitar and vocals, Rusty McFarland on bass, and Greg Morrow on drums, with additional Hammond organ flourishes by Greg Redding that give the track its soulful depth. Fans on platforms like Rate Your Music praise the album for its authentic blues-rock sound, and "I.R.S. Blues" stands out for its lyrical wit—a hallmark of Spinner’s songwriting. Though Spinner hasn’t shared specific anecdotes about the song on his Facebook or Instagram, his posts often reflect a laid-back, humorous vibe that aligns with the song’s playful take on a universal gripe. The lack of direct quotes about "I.R.S. Blues" only adds to its mystique, leaving Zoo Freaks to speculate whether Spinner drew inspiration from a particularly rough tax season or just a love for classic blues storytelling.

Tony Spinner’s journey to becoming a blues-rock stalwart began in Jonesboro, Arkansas, where he was born on June 9, 1963. Growing up in a musically rich environment, Spinner picked up the guitar early, influenced by the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix, whose echoes reverberate in his work. His career kicked off in the early 1990s with solo releases like Saturn Blues in 1993, but it was his contributions to compilations like L.A. Blues Authority that started turning heads in the blues scene. Spinner’s big break came when he joined Toto in 1999, handpicked by David Paich to serve as a backup guitarist and backing vocalist, even taking lead vocals on their hit "Stop Loving You." This high-profile gig, which lasted until Toto’s temporary hiatus in 2008, gave Spinner a global stage and cemented his reputation as a versatile performer. His collaboration with Paul Gilbert on the 2010 "Fuzz Universe" tour further showcased his guitar chops, blending technical skill with soulful expression.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper into Tony Spinner’s world, his official website, tonyspinner.com, offers a hub for tour dates, music, and merch. You can catch his latest updates on Facebook, where he shares gig photos and interacts with fans, or on Instagram, where he posts behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life on the road. Spinner’s presence on X is more sporadic, but it’s worth following for occasional quips and music news. Fans have also carved out spaces online, like the Tony Spinner Fans Facebook Group, where enthusiasts swap stories, share bootlegs, and celebrate albums like Crosstown Sessions. While dedicated fan websites are less common, platforms like Music Sense provide detailed tracklists and insights, keeping the Spinner flame alive for the Zoo Crew and beyond.