A slew of news reports have come out recently indicating that ZZ will be returning to the studio to record a new album, which will be released by the end of the year. Billy is quoted as indicating they will be working on the album following their short stint with Tom Petty. He also makes mention of working directly with Rick Rubin during the recording process.
Multiple issues with this bit of "news". Billy was also recently quoted in an interview advising that they had a long way to go, having no names or titles for songs and needing to get into the studio but finding it harder than it should be. Secondly, none of the articles mention the fact that ZZ is scheduled to return to Europe beginning October 14th after touring with Petty for a series of shows through the end of October. Third, the band has been touring non-stop since late April, and I would imagine are rather tired and in need of a break from the road and each other.
The only thing that makes me believe the band would be in a hurry to get into the studio is the influence of Mr. Rubin. Having signed the band to a contract several years ago, he has yet to have an opportunity to work his magic and rekindle the spark and shine of ZZ. Most likely he would like an album to be recorded as soon as possible, both to show his continuing relevance and abilities and to make a return on his investment.
Ultimately the fact that Billy has chosen to permanently live in California and indulge in his own activities when not on the road, and that Frank and Dusty continue to reside in the Houston vicinity creates a difficult hurdle to overcome. I just don't think the group has any motivation, outside of Rubin, to record again. As long as people keep coming to the shows and the band enjoys the road, why should they return to the studio? Besides, all members have indicated that working in the studio is not an enjoyable activity. I'm guessing that the only albums they really enjoyed working on are ZZ Top's First Album through Tejas, and then likely Rhythmeen. People generally don't do what they don't want to unless they are compelled, like perhaps from a recording contract.
Most likely the recent news reports are just continued soundbites that the band formulates to create press coverage and word of mouth, in this case probably intended to attact attention to their tour with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (who apparently enjoy working together in the studio and just put out another new album).
Dusty was quoted in 2005 stating that the band would be returning to the studio after that summer's tour. That was five years ago. Seriously, five years ago. It's been said every year since.
I will believe it when I see, hear and touch the "new" album. Until then...where's my copy of Mescalero?
http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2010/09/zz-top-working-on-new-album-with-rick-rubin-black.html
http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/zz-top-0916/
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