Between a Rock and a Hard Place

The Zoo Crew is spinning the hard-hitting track "Between a Rock and a Hard Place" by UFO from their 1988 EP Ain't Misbehavin', and Zoo Freaks, you're in for a treat with some juicy trivia about this song! Recorded after UFO's electrifying 1987 U.S. tour supporting their album Misdemeanor, this song was the lead track of the EP and is often praised as one of the band's standout rockers from the era. According to a review on Ghost Cult Magazine, the track showcases frontman Phil Mogg's vocal prowess paired with the fiery guitar work of Atomik Tommy M, marking their final collaboration. Fans on Amazon have called it a hidden gem, with one reviewer noting that it "ranks up there with some of the band's best rockers," though some felt the EP's production leaned too heavily into '80s hair metal vibes. Interestingly, the song's raw energy was inspired by the band's no-frills recording approach, reportedly laid down in Phil Mogg's living room, giving it a gritty, authentic feel that Zoo Freaks can vibe with.

Digging deeper, "Between a Rock and a Hard Place" carries a rebellious spirit, with lyrics like "I ain't the soft touch you think I am" reflecting UFO's determination to stay true to their hard rock roots despite industry pressures. A fan on Rate Your Music described it as the EP's peak, though some felt the rest of the album slipped into a more polished, melodic sound. The song's title itself became a rallying cry, and in 2024, UFO released a deluxe reissue of Ain't Misbehavin' with bonus live tracks, including performances from Milwaukee in 1986, highlighting the song's enduring live energy. The Zoo Crew might appreciate that this track was a bold statement from a band refusing to be boxed in, perfect for those late-night radio sessions where defiance rules the airwaves.

UFO got their start in London in 1968, originally under the name Hocus Pocus, when vocalist Phil Mogg, drummer Andy Parker, guitarist Mick Bolton, and bassist Pete Way came together with a shared love for gritty rock. Their early sound was steeped in the '60s rock scene, blending space rock vibes with influences from bands like Led Zeppelin. By 1969, they adopted the name UFO and began gigging relentlessly, catching the attention of Beacon Records. Their debut album, UFO 1, released in 1970, leaned heavily into bluesy, psychedelic rock, but it was their shift to a harder-edged sound with the arrival of guitarist Michael Schenker in 1973 that defined their legacy. Schenker, an 18-year-old prodigy from Scorpions, brought a new intensity, and albums like Phenomenon (1974) cemented UFO as pioneers of the transition from hard rock to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Over five decades, despite multiple lineup changes and three brief disbandments, Phil Mogg remained the constant, guiding UFO to sell over 20 million records worldwide.

Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper can connect with UFO's official website for the latest news and tour archives. The band's Facebook page is a hub for fan discussions and throwback photos, while their Instagram shares nostalgic clips and album art. On X, UFO engages with fans through updates and occasional witty exchanges. For those craving community, the UFO Band Fans Facebook group is a lively spot where fans share memories, rare vinyl finds, and concert stories. Another great resource is PopRockBands.com, a fan-driven site with detailed discographies and song info. Whether you're a longtime fan or a new Zoo Freak, UFO's legacy is ready to rock your world!