Twentieth Century Zoo
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1967 |
| Founder | Former members of The Bittersweets |
| Defunct | 1970 |
| Headquarters | Phoenix, Arizona , United States |
| Products | Singles, album |
Twentieth Century Zoo emerged as an American psychedelic rock ensemble originating from the former members of The Bittersweets in Phoenix, Arizona during 1967. The group issued multiple singles and one album that garnered local recognition before dissolving in 1970. Their later material explored various musical styles, including early manifestations of proto-punk. Renowned for performing alongside prominent artists, they blended a range of influences to create their distinctive sound.[1]
The Bittersweets
Initially established in 1966 under the name The Bittersweets, the band predominantly embraced a folk rock style as they began their careers performing in local clubs. Under the management of Chari Zelman, who arranged gigs and practice venues, they supported well-known acts such as Blue Cheer, Canned Heat, and particularly The Byrds, whose influence was significant in shaping their musical direction. They recorded three singles across several small labels that mirrored the evolving style of The Byrds. After moving to Los Angeles, they adopted the name Twentieth Century Zoo in mid-1967 due to a conflict with another group’s name.[2]
Twentieth Century Zoo
Following their name change, the band released two singles that gained attention within the region, eventually attracting interest from Vault Records and securing a contract with a major label. Their sessions at AT Audio Recorders for the Caz label marked a transition toward psychedelic and acid rock sounds. The track "You Don't Remember" is recognized as an early example of protopunk amidst their varied musical explorations. Their compositions featured vocal harmonies, intricate fuzz guitar solos, and drew heavily from the Los Angeles music scene, particularly evident during live performances. Touring throughout the U.S. Southwest, they opened for nationally acclaimed bands and appeared on television shows such as The Wallace and Ladmo Show.[3]
In late 1968, recording commenced on their debut album at Vault Records Studios in Hollywood, incorporating songs reminiscent of Fever Tree. The album showcased extended guitar improvisations, Eastern-inspired string arrangements and percussion elements, alongside various sound effects that enriched the tracks. Released in early 1969 under the title Thunder on a Clear Day by Vault, it achieved regional popularity but did not reach national chart success.[4]
After completing another tour and partially working on a follow-up album, lead guitarist "Skip" Ladd was conscripted into the United States Army. Efforts to find a replacement were unsuccessful; following one final single release, the group disbanded in early 1970.[5] In 1999, Sundazed Music reissued their album along with an EP containing three previously unreleased tracks originally intended for their second album.[2][1]
Band members
Initial Lineup 1966–1967 (As The Bittersweets)
- Paul Bennett – Drums, percussion
- Allan Chitwood – Bass guitar, backing vocals
- Greg Farley – Rhythm guitar
- Bob Sutko – Lead vocals, harmonica
Subsequent Lineup 1967–1970 (As Twentieth Century Zoo)
- Allan Chitwood – Bass guitar, backing vocals
- Greg Farley – Rhythm guitar
- Paul "Skip" Ladd – Lead guitar
- Bob Sutko – Lead vocals, harmonica
- Randy Wells – Drums, percussion
- Michael Martina – Keyboards