Paradise

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove to "Paradise" from Trevor Rabin's 2023 album Rio! This track is a wild ride, blending country vibes with progressive rock flair, and it’s no surprise it’s spinning on THE ZOO’s turntables. In a 2023 interview with Yesfans, Trevor revealed that "Paradise" was strong enough to have been the lead single for Rio, showcasing its infectious energy. He described it as starting with a rocky edge before diving into a synthesized vocal section and settling into a folkish vibe, complete with mandolin and banjo. Reviewers on MusicPlayers.com called it a genre-bending gem, likening its first half to Shania Twain meeting ELO, then morphing into a Spock’s Beard vocal breakdown, an Irish jig, and finally a classical jazz outro. It’s a seven-minute epic that never gets dull, with Rabin’s guitar and vocal prowess shining through, making it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic vibe.

Another cool tidbit about "Paradise" comes from its production. Trevor, who played nearly every instrument on Rio, leaned on his Hollywood soundtrack experience to give the song a cinematic feel. According to The Progressive Aspect, the track’s production is “startlingly good,” with a playful moment where a phone rings, Trevor groans, and the song picks right back up—a nod to his sense of humor. Fans on Progarchives noted the slide guitar work in "Paradise" as a tribute to Yes guitarist Steve Howe, adding a layer of nostalgia for prog rock lovers. Trevor’s ability to weave these diverse influences together makes "Paradise" a standout, and as he shared in a MetalTalk interview, the album’s creation was a labor of love, fueled by years of pent-up ideas from his film-scoring days.

Trevor Rabin’s journey to crafting tracks like "Paradise" began in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was born in 1954 to a musical family. His father, a violinist for the Johannesburg Symphony Orchestra, and his mother, a classical pianist and actress, nurtured his talent early on. Trevor started piano lessons at six and picked up the guitar at twelve, inspired by Hank B. Marvin of The Shadows. By thirteen, he was gigging locally with his brother’s band, and soon formed Conglomeration, one of Johannesburg’s top acts. In 1972, he joined Rabbitt, which became South Africa’s biggest rock phenomenon, earning teen idol status and a Sarie Award (South Africa’s Grammy equivalent) for their album Boys Will Be Boys. After releasing his debut solo album, Beginnings, in 1977, Trevor moved to London in 1978 to expand his career, producing for acts like Manfred Mann’s Earth Band and releasing more solo work.

Rabin’s big break came after moving to Los Angeles in 1981. His demos caught the attention of Yes bassist Chris Squire, leading to the formation of Cinema, which evolved into a reformed Yes. Trevor’s songwriting and guitar work on 1983’s 90125, including the chart-topping “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” redefined the band’s sound and earned him a Grammy. After leaving Yes in 1994, he became a prolific film composer, scoring over 50 films like Armageddon and National Treasure, racking up eleven BMI Film and TV Awards. His return to rock with Rio, announced via a post on X, marked a triumphant comeback, proving his versatility and enduring talent.

For more on Trevor, check out his official website, where you can dive into his discography and film scores. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Fans can also join the community at Yesfans for discussions about Trevor’s work with Yes and his solo projects. Another great spot is the Trevor Rabin Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks can geek out over “Paradise” and share their love for his music. Keep spinning those records, Zoo Crew!