The Zombies are one of the most famous bands of the early 1960s British rock wave that followed the Beatles' major crest. Some of the most famous songs they have created in their over 50 year tenure include classics like “She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No” and “Time of the Season.”They also created the monumental classic psych album, Odessey and Oracle.

To celebrate their 50th anniversary as a band, founders Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone decided they needed some new songs to go along with their classic discography for a full U.S. tour. That was the birth of Breathe Out, Breathe In. The band was formed in 1961 in St. Albans, and is made up of Rod Argent on keyboards and backing vocals; Colin Blunstone on lead vocals; Tom Toomey on acoustic and electric guitar; Jim Rodford on bass and backing vocals and Steve Rodford on drums and percussion.

Breathe Out, Breathe In is not only a wonderful celebration of their 50th anniversary, it may just be a new start for the band. They have proven that despite their age they can reclaim their status as one of the innovators of the early British wave of artists who invaded America. This is an excellent collection of fun and deeply emotional future classics for all of their fans and new discoverers. It’s something we can all cherish until the next episode begins.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2011  Volume 4 at lulu.com/strangesound.

The title track opens with the feeling of Donald Fagen’s Nightfly album and its jazzy sound. The piano is wonderful and full of great rhythm. The music is light and danceable with lyrics that match the light hearted air, “The city’s sitting pretty /A warm summer wind seems to promise something special tonight”. Fantastic bass work is featured, and the drums are on target as the guitar adds flavor. The organ is essential to this and all of the tracks on the album.

The opening piano on “Play it for Real” took me right back to the Beatles’ “Lady Madonna” for a moment. Then the bass, guitar and drums pull through to give it more of a “Hey Bulldog” feel. The vocal harmonies are there to help provide even more reminders. “Feel it for the first time / Hold it in your eyes / How you gonna ever live in this disguise?” Yes, you have to play it for real, and they do. The piano solo is worth the price of admission alone. I’d like to see this played live.