Swatting Flies in Wanker County

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs spinning vinyl at THE ZOO radio station, are cranking up "Swatting Flies in Wanker County" by Vixen from their 1998 album Tangerine for all the Zoo Freaks out there. This track is a hidden gem, tucked away as an unlisted instrumental on the album, only appearing as an untitled track when you pop the CD into a PC. It’s a swingin’ bluegrass-inspired piece, a departure from Vixen’s usual hard rock sound, showcasing their versatility. Drtargets

Drummer Roxy Petrucci, in an interview with goJimmygo, revealed she played clarinet on this track, adding a unique layer to its quirky, playful vibe. She described it as a “swingin’ bluegrass instrumental” with Gina Stile on guitar and Michael Pisculli on bass, highlighting her passion for delivering a performance she could be proud of, whether in the studio or live. The song’s title, with its cheeky nod to the British slang “wanker,” ties into a broader cultural context, as seen in other media like TISM’s 1998 album www.tism.wanker.com, which playfully explored themes of male bravado. The term “wanker” carries a humorous, mildly offensive edge, often used as a general insult rather than its literal meaning, adding a layer of tongue-in-cheek rebellion to the track’s identity.

Vixen, the all-female rock band behind “Swatting Flies in Wanker County,” formed in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1980, with a mission to break barriers in the male-dominated rock scene. Originally a cover band, they honed their craft playing local gigs before moving to Los Angeles in 1985 to chase bigger dreams. Their big break came with their 1988 self-titled debut album, featuring hits like “Edge of a Broken Heart,” which stormed the charts and solidified their place in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s glam metal scene. The Tangerine album, however, marked a shift toward a post-grunge sound, reflecting the band’s evolution. Legal battles over the band’s name followed the album’s release, as founding member Jan Kuehnemund was deemed the sole owner, rendering Tangerine technically unofficial. Despite this, the lineup of Janet Gardner, Gina Stile, and Roxy Petrucci poured their hearts into the record, with “Swatting Flies” standing out as a creative experiment.

Fans can stay connected with Vixen through their official website, where updates on tours and new music are posted. Their Facebook page keeps the community buzzing with nostalgia and news, while their Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses and throwback photos. On X, they share quick updates and interact with fans. For deeper fan engagement, check out the Vixen Rocks!! Facebook group, a lively hub for Zoo Freaks and other devotees to swap stories, share rare merch finds, and celebrate the band’s legacy. Another fan-driven spot, The Rhythm Authority, dives into Roxy Petrucci’s contributions, including her work on “Swatting Flies.” These platforms keep the spirit of Vixen’s music alive for fans old and new.