| MAY 2000 The band returns to Abelarde Sanction on 19 May, opening for Sunways. Although the set is marred by poor stage sound the audience loves it. Before the next gig, with Squeal at 206, Zen Arcade will be recording tracks for an EP at RP Studios, SABC. The band's main focus therefore is now on gearing up for the recording. |
 |
 |
 |
| JUNE 2000 Zen Arcade records Crazy Over You, Sister and Step Back at RP Studios, SABC Radio Centre. String parts for Crazy are scored by Lizzie Rennie (viola) and played by herself and Jackie (cello). Neal Snyman is the engineer. |
 |
 |
| Boogie nights - James tweaks the Mesa |
 |
| Saturday 10 June. Back at RP Studios to mix down in the M2 studio. The results are promising a lush, yet punchy sound achieved on Crazy Over You and Step Back. Although Sister is pegged for mixing at a later date, an edgy, aggressive and ominous version is captured. Friday 23 June. An excellent live gig at "home" venue, Abelarde. The band is relaxed and plays a powerful set, including the epic Up for the first time. Also on the bill are Lunge, who impress with their riff-laden, well considered brand of rock. |
 |
| JUNE 2000 Friday 9 June - Zen Arcade plays at 206live, supporting the new Squeal line-up. A tight, powerful set, despite inexplicable discrepancies between the soundcheck balance and the actual live sound. |
 |
 |
| STEP BACK - QUEEN OF MAKE DO - SUMMER SUN CRAZY OVER YOU - LOPSIDED AFFAIR TAKE OUT THE TRASH - UP - SISTER |