Inside Out

The Zoo Crew is spinning the hard-hitting track "Inside Out" by XYZ from their self-titled debut album, and this song has some stories that resonate with the Zoo Freaks' vibe. Released in 1989, "Inside Out" was one of two singles from the album, alongside "What Keeps Me Loving You," both of which became staples on MTV during the early '90s hair metal era. According to drummer Paul Monroe in a 2022 interview, he and guitarist Marc Diglio, being newer members, shaped the song's structure significantly. Monroe described his role as crafting "cool endings, and sometimes beginnings" for tracks like "Inside Out," focusing on transitions and rhythm sections that gave the song its punchy, flirtatious energy. The track's music video, a classic of the era, captured the band's raw Sunset Strip energy, filmed with the grit and glamour of their Whisky a Go Go days.

Another layer to "Inside Out" comes from the band's experience with producer Don Dokken. While Dokken's involvement gave the album a polished edge, it wasn't without tension. Dokken later shared that he felt slighted by comments from vocalist Terry Ilous and bassist Pat Fontaine, who suggested he was more focused on his dog and champagne than producing. However, Monroe pushed back on this narrative, crediting Dokken with elevating his drumming technique, which you can hear in the tight, driving beat of "Inside Out." The song's lyrics, delivered with Ilous' commanding yet playful howl, paint a vivid picture of love and lust, setting it apart from the typical glam metal tropes of the time, as noted by fans on XYZ Fan Club on Facebook.

XYZ began in Lyon, France, in 1980, founded by Pat Fontaine and Terry Ilous, who were childhood friends with a shared passion for rock. Initially a trio with Fontaine on vocals and bass, Paul Villet on drums, and Uncle RV on guitars, they played shows across Western Europe, including a notable gig at New York's CBGB. Ilous joined as lead vocalist, solidifying the four-piece, and in 1984, the band relocated to Los Angeles, chasing the vibrant Sunset Strip scene. After Villet and RV left, Robert Pieper and Joe Pafumi stepped in, and XYZ became the unofficial house band at the Whisky a Go Go. Their big break came in 1989 with a record deal from Enigma Records, leading to their debut album, produced by Don Dokken, which included "Inside Out." The band’s persistence through lineup changes and their immersion in LA’s club circuit built their reputation, earning them a tour with Ted Nugent and a major label deal with Capitol for their 1991 album, Hungry.

Fans can connect with XYZ through their official Facebook page, where they share updates on tours and new music, including hints of fresh tracks as of March 2022. Their Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of performances, like their regular appearances on Monster of Rock Cruises. On X, the band engages with Zoo Freaks and other fans, posting about festivals like Rocklahoma and M3 Rock Festival. For deeper fan interaction, the XYZ Fan Club on Facebook is a hub for sharing memories and rare photos, while XYZ Forever is a fan-run site with discographies and vintage concert stories. These platforms keep the spirit of "Inside Out" alive, channeling the same raw energy the Zoo Crew is pumping through THE ZOO’s airwaves.