McCartney Times

The Zombies are an influential English rock band, often mistakenly described as a duo due to the prominence of their two principal members, vocalist Colin Blunstone and keyboardist/songwriter Rod Argent. Formed in 1961 in St Albans, the group became one of the most distinctive and sophisticated voices of the British Invasion.

Blending jazz-inflected chord structures, baroque pop textures, and ethereal vocals, they achieved early international success with hits like She’s Not There and later the timeless classic Time of the Season.

Their 1968 album Odessey and Oracle – notable for its unique spelling – has since been hailed as one of the greatest pop albums of all time, admired for its lush harmonies, inventive melodies, and introspective songwriting.

Although the band initially disbanded shortly after recording Odessey and Oracle, their music enjoyed a major resurgence in the late 1960s when Time of the Season became a surprise U.S. hit. Over subsequent decades, The Zombies reunited in various lineups led by Blunstone and Argent, continuing to tour and record new material while earning a revered place in rock history.

After The Zombies first disbanded, Colin Blunstone quietly reinvented himself as one of Britain’s most distinctive solo vocalists. His 1971 album One Year revealed a more intimate, orchestral sound, highlighted by the timeless hit “Say You Don’t Mind.” Rather than chasing trends, Colin carved out a career defined by elegance, emotional subtlety, and that unmistakable breath-soft tenor. Across decades of solo recordings and touring, he has remained a singer’s singer — proof that restraint and vulnerability can be just as powerful as volume.

Following The Zombies, Rod Argent stepped boldly into a new chapter by forming the progressive rock band Argent, embracing a heavier, more expansive musical direction. As a keyboardist, composer, and bandleader, Rod helped shape ambitious records of the early 1970s, including the enduring anthem “Hold Your Head Up.” His solo and production work showcased not only his virtuosity on keys, but also his instinct for melody and structure. Whether writing, producing, or performing, Rod has consistently balanced musicianship with musical adventure.

In recognition of their lasting impact on popular music, The Zombies were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing their legacy as pioneers of melodic, harmony-rich British rock.

If you haven’t already – run to Amazon Prime and watch their fascinating documentary… HUNG UP ON A DREAM