Chicago based Zazu released this only album which quickly fell out of site due to their label’s lack of promotion. Music is Symphonic prog rock, nice guitars and lot of keyboards, good vocals and all -except one- are original compositions. The record label disinterested in anything the band did and a second album never released as well as Zazu’s guitarist ending up in a 'Hospital' years later.
Tracks
1. Country Eyes (Randy Curlee, Paul Ripurero) - 3:41
2. Upon The Island Unisphere (John Melnick, Randy Curlee) - 6:41
3. Just Friends (John Melnick, Bill Traut) - 3:48
4. Midnight Train (Rick Marotta, Stu Woods, Tom Cosgrove) - 3:59
5. Ittsanottasonatta, But It's Close (John Melnick, Paul Ripurero, Mickey Lehockey, Randy Curlee) - 10:23
6. Morning Rain (John Melnick, Mickey Lehockey) - 6:16
Zazu
*Randy Curlee - Bass, Vocals
*Mickey Lehockey - Drums
*John Melnick - Keyboards, Vocals
*Paul Ripurero - Guitars, Vocals
A pretty descent recording all around. Very well played and very well produced. These guys had some chops. It's a nice find. I wouldn't necessarily consider it 'Symphonic Rock' however. Sort of reminds me of Ambrosia at times. Too bad they were never given a 2nd chance. 'Upon The Island Unisphere' and 'Itsanottasonatta, But It's Close' are the standout tracks. The latter is a suite, 'Ruler's Crown/Space Polka/On The Edge of Your Weird/In The Midst of Your Weird.' Thanks for the introduction, Marios!
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