Some bands leave behind hit records. Others leave behind a little mystery. The Zombies are getting another chance to tell their remarkable story.
Continue Here (Mono Remastered) brings together 18 non-album singles and B-sides recorded between 1964 and 1967, collected on one album for the first time. Featuring favourites such as “I Love You,” “Leave Me Be” and “I Want You Back Again,” the collection bridges the gap between Begin Here and the much-loved Odessey & Oracle. And that unusual spelling is no mistake in our story. It originated with a cover-design error by Terry Quirk, which the band ultimately embraced. Released through the band's own Beechwood Park Records, the collection is overseen by Matthew and Jamie White, mastered by Reuben Cohen at Lurssen Mastering, with new artwork by Darren Evans and liner notes from legendary music journalist David Fricke. The CD edition adds “I'm Going Home” as a bonus, bringing its total to 19 tracks.
As a DJ, I always leaned more towards the Rolling Stones than the Beatles, but the Zombies occupied a special place of their own. There was something magical about them. In their relatively short time together, they never seemed to receive the respect they deserved. Rod Argent and Chris White were the band's principal songwriters, with Argent's musical vision helping shape their distinctive sound. The group struggled financially, and touring as part of Dick Clark's travelling package shows was hardly the road to riches. Then there is Colin Blunstone. I've always considered him one of the most underrated singers of his generation. When the original group broke up in 1967, it felt like a terrible missed opportunity. Perhaps Continue Here is more than a collection of forgotten recordings. It's another chance to appreciate a band that was special all along. #mtlmusic