Long-time rockers coming to San Francisco

A band that first formed in 1961 and were part of the British Invasion phenomenon is coming to San Francisco.

The Zombies, who got their start in St. Albans in the UK, play psychedelic rock and have become known for their frequent breakups and restarts. Despite the hiccups, they have had remarkable success, starting when they won a “battle of the bands” competition that was hosted by the London Evening News. The win brought them to the attention of Decca Records, who signed them and released their first hit, “She’s Not There.”

The band followed up this success with a tour of the United States. Their sound, infused with jazz and powered by the distinctively raspy singing of Colin Blunstone, set them apart from other British bands and made them a favorite of American audiences. Their second single “Tell Her No” rose to No. 6 in the United States.

CBS Records signed them in 1967 and set to work on the album “Odessey and Oracle,” but the band broke up before the record dropped. However, one of the singles from the album, “Time of the Season” was a smash hit. The Zombies continue to tour, delighting fans who say things like:
“The Zombies perhaps deliver one of the most sophisticated performances out there today.”

The Zombies will be at the Palace of Fine Arts on Thursday, October 5. When events like this are scheduled, promoters may choose to use poster printing to advertise them.