History:

The Zakons were a rock group from Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. The Zakons originally consisted of bandleader Gerry Irwin on drums, Bill Joswick on guitar, Jon Mullen on saxophone, and Ron Pagel on guitar. The quartet played local high school dances and small clubs in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. 

This lineup released a very popular single in 1961 titled “Wasted” with “Trackin” on the flip. Both sides are rockabilly instrumentals. The entire run of singles were misprinted, as the Cuca label thought the band’s name was The Fakons. The band corrected the error themselves with pens. It has since become a highly sought after single. 

The band survived the 60’s by playing on the lounge scene. By 1973, The Zakons had established themselves as a premiere lounge band in Wisconsin. Due to their popularity, the band released their first album “The Sounds Of Zakons ‘73”. The only original member left in the band at this point was Gerry Irwin. 

Babe Krakowski, the guitarist, had been with the group for many years, maybe since the mid 60’s, and was suspiciously credited as an original member on the liner notes. Duke Ross joined the band on organ (plus tambourine on the album) and split singing duties with new bassist Dave Freiberg. 

The album featured covers of soul and rock tunes. It also featured two original tracks which were “Can’t Overlook An Angel” and “When You’re Lonely”. The band continued playing clubs and lounges into the 80’s. They released one more single, "Dollar To My Name" with "Dreamland USA", before they disbanded in the early 1980’s. 

Review:

The Sounds Of Zakons 73' (1973, Golden Gate)

Rating: 5/10

A pretty bummer affair overall from production to actual performance. Pretty uninspired and slow lounge rock with soul overtones, garage moves, and even a country vibe here or there. Side B is the better of the two, featuring a corny yet soulful version of “Funky Broadway” and a borderline surf rock cover of “I Believe” which was popularized by Elvis. That’s my favorite track on the album by far and the most chirpy. 

Side B also features two original tracks which are okay. “When You’re Lonely” has gotten some recognition on YouTube as a good downer ballad. Nice organ and harmonies on that one. “Can’t Overlook An Angel” is a fine cheery garage number. Rest of the album is just very very slow and melancholic. “Fire and Rain” reminded me of Procol Harum for what it’s worth.