I had yet to comment on the glaring absence this year, the continuing wait, the occasional wonder...where is that new album??
Having grown weary of the delay, I will throw one more discussion into the ring. The next time I venture on the subject will be if and when something new plays in my stereo....
For whatever reason, or combination of reasons, there is no indication that a new album has been worked on or is planned. Stunning really. Having newly signed to Sanctuary Records in 2008 under the control of Rick Rubin, who has a reputation for getting down to business and having limited patience for conclusive results, the general consensus pointed to a soon to be arriving album, with good reasoning. Further the fact the band's official web site in early 2009 had for a month or two a full page web greeting proclaiming a new album gave an easy assumption of fruitful anticipation. Nothing has materialized however, save for anniversary releases of old material and two great, but not new, live albums.
Obviously the band profits from the incessant touring, courtesy of ticket and merchandise sales. The aforementioned anniversary and live releases include commissions, and classics such as "Tres Hombres" and "Eliminator" are bound to sell a few copies here and there. No doubt that Sanctuary is taking its cut as well.
I've questioned the reasoning behind seven years without a new record in the face of seemingly ideal conditions. I'm actually tiring of wondering. My theory, until proven otherwise, is a combination of Billy living full time in Los Angeles away from his bandmates, a general apathy as the band grows older to work on their craft, and a reasonable worry or concern that a new release will be greeted with little fanfare from critics or the public. Lynyrd Skynyrd and AC/DC have proved that older bands can still put out pleasing and well received music (Skynyrd has one original member for mercy's sake and their new album still sold well!). Ultimately the main reason is probably apathy; a loss of spark, creativity and desire is evident if you peer just below the surface of the mystique.
No matter. Fourteen albums of original material, 100's of thankfully preserved live recordings, and the endless enjoyment of low down and dirty blues that continues to transcend the powerless constraints of time earns the group a well deserved and well preserved place in the ongoing and infinite chronicle of musical contribution.
Chronicles have chapters. Chapters have endings.
-----
If "Tejas" hasn't gotten a spin from your stereo lately I would suggest you give it a go. Southern Comfort and "Avalon Highway" is a powerful combination, taking you to the western Texas landscape and pinning you under the desert's auburn setting sun. The greatest album of ZZ's catelogue? Something to ponder and discuss in the future....
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
Trouble On the Road
A number of recordings have surfaced documenting the 2010 version of ZZ Top. I have also had an opportunity to speak with a number of individuals who have enjoyed a show this year.
Of surprise to many is that the band, despite the fan's probable immense excitement at hearing the tunes, dropped "Thunderbird" and "Francine" from the set list. The reasons for this are speculative at this time. One proposal is that the band doesn't enjoy playing the tunes (doubtful), another is the songs were not well received (really doubtful), or that they would rather play "Got Me Under Pressure" (I pray that's doubtful). The likely reason is the apparent inability for Billy and Dusty to harmonize.
After listening to the shows and discussing eye witness accounts, a prevalent issue appears to be Billy's voice. As most fans know his vocals took a distinct turn in the early to mid 1990's, from a distinct and defined low forceful howl to an increasingly softer, gruff and broken tone. Having been able to sing on key and somewhat melodically until the early 2000's, the past few years has seen a continued decrease in the power and conviction of his vocals. This is not to be unexpected. Voices mature and change over time. Few artists as they age are able to sing at the register and forcefullness of their youth. Several questions present themselves: has he failed to quit habits that increase the wear and tear on one's vocal chords (inhalation of smoke), does he take the time to warm up before shows so as to prevent excessive and unneccesary damage, and has he considered taking instructional therapy and/or lessons in order to learn how to preserve and care for his voice?
Contrary to Billy's experience, Dusty appears to be in good shape. Having of course lost some of his high register ability, his tone is still pleasing to the ear. This makes harmonizing with Billy all the more difficult. There are questions here as well though, to be discussed later.
I do enjoy the character, quality and maturity that Billy's low growl brings. Thankfully it suits ZZ's sound very well, low down and dirty blues. He shouldn't sound like Robert Plant in 1969, he should sound like a true veteran of rock.
This vocal change however does not seem to have gone unnoticed, by the band or the fans. If you have been to a show this year and would like to comment or contact me to discuss please do so, I would love to hear your opinions. I will comment on this matter more as the tour progresses.
**
LET IT BE KNOWN: despite any vocal inadequacy, the band musically is sounding great. Upbeat, tight, focused, electric, hard blues are fitting words to describe the Texas Trio, one of the greatest bands to ever come from the States, 40 years and running.
**
Of surprise to many is that the band, despite the fan's probable immense excitement at hearing the tunes, dropped "Thunderbird" and "Francine" from the set list. The reasons for this are speculative at this time. One proposal is that the band doesn't enjoy playing the tunes (doubtful), another is the songs were not well received (really doubtful), or that they would rather play "Got Me Under Pressure" (I pray that's doubtful). The likely reason is the apparent inability for Billy and Dusty to harmonize.
After listening to the shows and discussing eye witness accounts, a prevalent issue appears to be Billy's voice. As most fans know his vocals took a distinct turn in the early to mid 1990's, from a distinct and defined low forceful howl to an increasingly softer, gruff and broken tone. Having been able to sing on key and somewhat melodically until the early 2000's, the past few years has seen a continued decrease in the power and conviction of his vocals. This is not to be unexpected. Voices mature and change over time. Few artists as they age are able to sing at the register and forcefullness of their youth. Several questions present themselves: has he failed to quit habits that increase the wear and tear on one's vocal chords (inhalation of smoke), does he take the time to warm up before shows so as to prevent excessive and unneccesary damage, and has he considered taking instructional therapy and/or lessons in order to learn how to preserve and care for his voice?
Contrary to Billy's experience, Dusty appears to be in good shape. Having of course lost some of his high register ability, his tone is still pleasing to the ear. This makes harmonizing with Billy all the more difficult. There are questions here as well though, to be discussed later.
I do enjoy the character, quality and maturity that Billy's low growl brings. Thankfully it suits ZZ's sound very well, low down and dirty blues. He shouldn't sound like Robert Plant in 1969, he should sound like a true veteran of rock.
This vocal change however does not seem to have gone unnoticed, by the band or the fans. If you have been to a show this year and would like to comment or contact me to discuss please do so, I would love to hear your opinions. I will comment on this matter more as the tour progresses.
**
LET IT BE KNOWN: despite any vocal inadequacy, the band musically is sounding great. Upbeat, tight, focused, electric, hard blues are fitting words to describe the Texas Trio, one of the greatest bands to ever come from the States, 40 years and running.
**
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Accounts From the Road / Lauging at ZZ Top
A number of fan accounts have come in regarding the new 2010 tour - all positive. Indications of enthusiastic and upbeat shows is great news. The band appears to be rejuvenated and enjoying themselves. Billy's voice seems to start off slowly but then improves; Dusty is as powerful as ever. The inclusion of a number of rare songs and the new cover of "Rock Me Baby" conveys a still burning musical desire - to do more than just the status quo. Let's hope as the tour progresses the group remembers to occasionally change things up, to keep it interesting for both them and the fans. For those reading this and planning on seeing them live this year, try to get within shouting distance and yell "My copy of Mescalero is worn out, I need a new album to listen to!!".
-----
A fellow ZZ Top fan pointed me in the direction of this hilarious website, definitely check it out!!
http://uncyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/ZZ_Top
-----
A fellow ZZ Top fan pointed me in the direction of this hilarious website, definitely check it out!!
http://uncyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/ZZ_Top
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
2010 Set List - Bee Cave, TX
04/25/10 - Backyard at Bee Cave
More surprises...
01) Thunderbird
02) Francine
03) Waitin' for the Bus
04) Jesus Just Left Chicago
05) Pincushion
06) I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide
07) Got Me Under Pressure
08) Future Blues
09) Rock Me Baby
10) Cheap Sunglasses
11) My Head's In Mississippi > I Need You Tonight
12) Hey Joe
13) Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers
14) Party on the Patio
15) Brown Sugar
16) Just Got Paid
17) Sharp Dressed Man
18) Legs
Encore:
19) Viva Las Vegas
20) La Grange/Sloppy Drunk/Bar-B-Q medley
21) Tush
* Set list courtesy of the fantastic site: www.lowpft.com
More surprises...
01) Thunderbird
02) Francine
03) Waitin' for the Bus
04) Jesus Just Left Chicago
05) Pincushion
06) I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide
07) Got Me Under Pressure
08) Future Blues
09) Rock Me Baby
10) Cheap Sunglasses
11) My Head's In Mississippi > I Need You Tonight
12) Hey Joe
13) Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers
14) Party on the Patio
15) Brown Sugar
16) Just Got Paid
17) Sharp Dressed Man
18) Legs
Encore:
19) Viva Las Vegas
20) La Grange/Sloppy Drunk/Bar-B-Q medley
21) Tush
* Set list courtesy of the fantastic site: www.lowpft.com
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Actively seeking 2010 shows on tape
I am actively and aggressively seeking recorded concerts from ZZ Top's shows in 2010. I will trade 3:1 for any show, regardless of sound quality. In some instances I would be willing to trade memorabilia in exchange for concerts. If you have recorded the group, or your friend has, or your friend's cousin's grandmother has, please let me know and we'll work out a deal to the enjoyment and benefit of all parties.
Thanks!
Thanks!
2010 Set List
04/23/2010 - Tyler, Texas - Set List
Some very nice additions here, including the iconic Dust My Broom!
1) Thunderbird
2) Francene
3) Waitin' For the Bus
4) Jesus Just Left Chicago
5) Pincushion
6) I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide
7) Got Me Under Pressure
8) Rock Me Baby (BB King cover)
9) My heads in Mississippi (intro only)
10) I Need You Tonight
11) Hey Joe
12) Brown Sugar
13) Party On the Patio
14) Dust My Broom
15) Just got Paid
16) Gimme All Your Lovin'
17) Sharp Dressed Man
18) Legs
Encore
19) Viva Las Vegas
20) La grange (including Sloppy Drunk / BBQ)
21) Tush
Set list courtesy of the excellent blog: http://zztopeurope2007.blogspot.com/
Some very nice additions here, including the iconic Dust My Broom!
1) Thunderbird
2) Francene
3) Waitin' For the Bus
4) Jesus Just Left Chicago
5) Pincushion
6) I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide
7) Got Me Under Pressure
8) Rock Me Baby (BB King cover)
9) My heads in Mississippi (intro only)
10) I Need You Tonight
11) Hey Joe
12) Brown Sugar
13) Party On the Patio
14) Dust My Broom
15) Just got Paid
16) Gimme All Your Lovin'
17) Sharp Dressed Man
18) Legs
Encore
19) Viva Las Vegas
20) La grange (including Sloppy Drunk / BBQ)
21) Tush
Set list courtesy of the excellent blog: http://zztopeurope2007.blogspot.com/
Monday, April 19, 2010
The price of success / 2010
In the fall of 1985 and throughout 1986 ZZ Top was at the peak of their commercial success. "Eliminator" had gone platinum, one of the first albums to do so under the new RIAA guidelines. The pressure was on the group, likely internally view Billy's desire to keep the momentum going, and externally via Warner Bros. business instinct to keep the profits rolling in. So it was, "Afterburner".
I like the album. I like the songs. Even "Rough Boy". The record fits perfectly square in the middle of the '80's. It takes you back to that time, often as music does. But it would change the group thereafter in my opinion, mostly for the worst.
After a highly successful headlining of the Monsters of Rock festival in August of 1985, the group retired to put the finishing touches on "Afterburner". Rehershals for the new tour came in November, and the next month the album was brought to the road. This time, when you came to see the concert, you saw a "show".
A larger than life replica of the Spinx that sucked a giant curtain up it's nose, having served as a cover to the stage setup prior to the start of the show. Ever wondered when listening to tapes what that weird noise at the very beginning of 1985 / 1986 concerts was - it's the Spinx sucking cloth through its nascal cavity. A stage size replica of the interior of the Eliminator car dash. Lasers out the wazoo. And so many speciality guitars, one for any number of songs (Eliminator shaped guitar, fuzzy guitar). The fans definitely got their money's worth.
Or did they. Was anyone listening to the songs, I mean really listening closely - something was missing. The creativity, the spark, the lowdown and dirty blues, Billy's howl - the sound of a band working, clawing, pounding, pummeling to get to the top. It was mostly gone. The group was already at the top. And therein lies my long winded point. In 1985 ZZ Top was at the "top". They no longer had to work as long or fight as hard to get the acclaim, the success that most bands desire. They had it. They were living it.
Gone were the changing solos of "Ten Foot Pole", replaced by a more rigid and structured outro. Gone was the bite and aggressiveness of "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers". Lost was "Fool For Your Stockings" and the obligatory sermon from Reverend Willie G. Lost was the occasional variation in the set list, the here and there insertion of "Dust My Broom", "Francene" and "Just Got Paid". No more Elvis hommages via "Jailhouse Rock".
Initially the price was smaller to pay. Early shows saw the group playing "Delirous" - a unique tune to this day. The rocker "Planet of Women" was debuted. "Stages", while the truest example of ZZ's radio friendly pop faze, was a crowd pleaser. Another staple of years before, the enigmatic "Party On The Patio" was faithfully presented. But these were all quickly dropped. By late Spring 1986 only "Sleeping Bag", "Velcro Fly", "Can't Stop Rockin" and "Rough Boy" were played. Perhaps most puzzling is the group's display of "Rough Boy" as the token Blues song of the show. Choosing to play the radio friendly track, the Boys devastatingly omitted the opportunity to play the stunning "I Need You Tonight" that had gone down so well back at the Monsters of Rock festival. Years later when the song was played it would not serve as the sole blues number, being followed often by "Catfish Blues" or "Just Got Back from Baby's".
Perhaps the ultimate price of the bands success was the relinquishment of the seemingly limiting, but so well defining title as the "Little Ole Band from Texas", a band fighting to be heard.
-----
This Friday ZZ Top will play a live show for the 5th decade in a row. Almost six in a row - the first show with the now legendary trio lineup was not until Spring 1970. Here's hoping the 2010's see more new tunes than the 2000's.
I like the album. I like the songs. Even "Rough Boy". The record fits perfectly square in the middle of the '80's. It takes you back to that time, often as music does. But it would change the group thereafter in my opinion, mostly for the worst.
After a highly successful headlining of the Monsters of Rock festival in August of 1985, the group retired to put the finishing touches on "Afterburner". Rehershals for the new tour came in November, and the next month the album was brought to the road. This time, when you came to see the concert, you saw a "show".
A larger than life replica of the Spinx that sucked a giant curtain up it's nose, having served as a cover to the stage setup prior to the start of the show. Ever wondered when listening to tapes what that weird noise at the very beginning of 1985 / 1986 concerts was - it's the Spinx sucking cloth through its nascal cavity. A stage size replica of the interior of the Eliminator car dash. Lasers out the wazoo. And so many speciality guitars, one for any number of songs (Eliminator shaped guitar, fuzzy guitar). The fans definitely got their money's worth.
Or did they. Was anyone listening to the songs, I mean really listening closely - something was missing. The creativity, the spark, the lowdown and dirty blues, Billy's howl - the sound of a band working, clawing, pounding, pummeling to get to the top. It was mostly gone. The group was already at the top. And therein lies my long winded point. In 1985 ZZ Top was at the "top". They no longer had to work as long or fight as hard to get the acclaim, the success that most bands desire. They had it. They were living it.
Gone were the changing solos of "Ten Foot Pole", replaced by a more rigid and structured outro. Gone was the bite and aggressiveness of "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers". Lost was "Fool For Your Stockings" and the obligatory sermon from Reverend Willie G. Lost was the occasional variation in the set list, the here and there insertion of "Dust My Broom", "Francene" and "Just Got Paid". No more Elvis hommages via "Jailhouse Rock".
Initially the price was smaller to pay. Early shows saw the group playing "Delirous" - a unique tune to this day. The rocker "Planet of Women" was debuted. "Stages", while the truest example of ZZ's radio friendly pop faze, was a crowd pleaser. Another staple of years before, the enigmatic "Party On The Patio" was faithfully presented. But these were all quickly dropped. By late Spring 1986 only "Sleeping Bag", "Velcro Fly", "Can't Stop Rockin" and "Rough Boy" were played. Perhaps most puzzling is the group's display of "Rough Boy" as the token Blues song of the show. Choosing to play the radio friendly track, the Boys devastatingly omitted the opportunity to play the stunning "I Need You Tonight" that had gone down so well back at the Monsters of Rock festival. Years later when the song was played it would not serve as the sole blues number, being followed often by "Catfish Blues" or "Just Got Back from Baby's".
Perhaps the ultimate price of the bands success was the relinquishment of the seemingly limiting, but so well defining title as the "Little Ole Band from Texas", a band fighting to be heard.
-----
This Friday ZZ Top will play a live show for the 5th decade in a row. Almost six in a row - the first show with the now legendary trio lineup was not until Spring 1970. Here's hoping the 2010's see more new tunes than the 2000's.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)