From Phoenix, Twentieth Century Zoo were the first psych band to light the local desert on fire. They managed to put out 3 singles and this one album in a short 3 year time frame. What stands out most is the ferocious guitar tone, complemented by the melodic organ, and snotty vocals. It's the Strawberry Alarm Clock on a bad trip. Best of all is the songwriting is top notch. In particular their marquee single 'You Don't Remember' is one for the ages. This is one of those songs you wish a band like Many Bright Things would have covered and extended to 20 minutes. Very unique, filled with "angry harmony", which might seem like a contradiction on paper. Final lengthy track 'Blues with a Feeling' is a bit typical of the era, but otherwise Thunder on a Clear Day is a rumblin' and a tumblin'. All aces here.
Ownership: CD: 1999 Sundazed. This is one of those albums that by the time I decided I wanted it, it had become OOP and already in the hands of pirates. Finally in 2013 I was able to secure a copy at a reasonable price. It's still a difficult CD to source. The CD front loads two of the 45s (4 songs), making it a chronological release. The highlight being 'You Don't Remember', which is much more kinetic than the LP version - though both are great. The Monkees could have made this song good. Following the album is one more single (2 songs) and 3 unreleased tracks, making this the definitive reissue. Also comes with full liner notes, photos, and memorabilia images. Originals are expensive. This is not an album I would mail order for, but I do hope to find one in the wilds. I just did that with Neighb'rhood Childr'n so there's always hope.
9/3/19; 11/29/22 (new entry)
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