I'm not afraid to point out I have been wrong thousands upon thousands of times, and in this instance I hope I am. It would appear that perhaps the band is working on structuring and recording some songs under the guidance of Rick Rubin after all.
Check out the "Totally Unofficial ZZ Top Tour Blog", which is a fantastic source of news, for a breakdown of some recent tweets from Mr. Rubin: http://zztopeurope2007.blogspot.com/
The band finished up their short stint with Tom Petty on 09/26 in Phoenix. There is an approx three week gap before they head off to Europe for a short tour. It's interesting in that the band appears to be visiting majory metropolitan sites only, having already hit some of the smaller cities over the summer. A breakdown of the European tour itinerary is on the official web site: http://www.zztop.com/index.php?module=tour
It is indeed exciting that the band will be playing two shows in Russia, the first visit to the country in the band's history. It would be truly awesome if someone manages to record one or both of the shows, but the logistics involved make it doubtful.
The main question concerns if the band can maintain focus and come back into the studio in November to finish what they have apparently started. Having worked quickly in the past it is possible things could be wrapped up by early December and perhaps we'll have some new tunes to jam to in the Spring of 2011. One can hope.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
New Record? Don't Bet On It
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/
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/
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Under Pressure / Looking for Mr. Mark Thomas (zzmark)
I caught ZZ Top in Richmond, VA on Tuesday 09/14/10. Good show, if not predictable. Same set list as the show I caught in Pennsylvania. I will be posting a full review hopefully within the next week. I will mention that Billy seemed particularly more "lubricated" and "relaxed" than normal, resulting in some heavy sighs and difficulty in pronunciation. His guitar playing was unaffected, but the larger than normal delay between the opening act and ZZ's set may be an indication of some pre-show green....
I have updated my trading list to include about 20 new shows. I continue to be very interested, and very grateful, in speaking with other collectors and trading live ZZ Top. Please do not hesitate to contact me anytime with any questions or interest in live ZZ, and of course if you are looking to do a trade.
Family life has proven busy lately hence the minor reduction in the frequency of posts. I anticipate I will be able to dedicate more attention to the blog as autumn commences.
Lastly, does anyone know how I can reach Mark Thomas (zzmark)? An e-mail, website, address or phone number would prove very helpful. Mr. Thomas appears to have an astounding live ZZ collection, most likely the most complete and rare collection in the world, surpassing even that of the reigning Houston king. I would very much like to get in touch with Mr. Thomas so any help you can provide may result in a few free ZZ concerts of your choice.
Texicali...
I have updated my trading list to include about 20 new shows. I continue to be very interested, and very grateful, in speaking with other collectors and trading live ZZ Top. Please do not hesitate to contact me anytime with any questions or interest in live ZZ, and of course if you are looking to do a trade.
Family life has proven busy lately hence the minor reduction in the frequency of posts. I anticipate I will be able to dedicate more attention to the blog as autumn commences.
Lastly, does anyone know how I can reach Mark Thomas (zzmark)? An e-mail, website, address or phone number would prove very helpful. Mr. Thomas appears to have an astounding live ZZ collection, most likely the most complete and rare collection in the world, surpassing even that of the reigning Houston king. I would very much like to get in touch with Mr. Thomas so any help you can provide may result in a few free ZZ concerts of your choice.
Texicali...
Saturday, September 4, 2010
ZZ Top - All quiet on the Texas front
Things have been very quiet as of late. Little to report really. I haven't so much as seen a set list update in almost four weeks. Little news / press coverage as well.
I'm sure things will pick once ZZ starts opening for Tom Petty, however I wish the additional press coverage was due to ZZ's own individual actions and merits vs. opening for another act. No recordings of any concerts have surfaced since the end of the European trek in July - this will likely change with increased attendance and gumption from Petty's fans.
I will be seeing the group for the second and last time this year on September 14 in Richmond, Virginia. As I noted in a previous post the venue is very intimate and should prove to be an excellent conduit for ZZ's hard blues sound. I will include a full report of course.
Progress continues to be made on the Tejas / World Wide Texas chapters. Any input from readers is greatly appreciated.
Also anyone that reads this blog and is coming to the Richmond show please let me know and we can meet up prior to the concert.
Sugar cane...Domino cane...Imperial cane...Yes I can
I'm sure things will pick once ZZ starts opening for Tom Petty, however I wish the additional press coverage was due to ZZ's own individual actions and merits vs. opening for another act. No recordings of any concerts have surfaced since the end of the European trek in July - this will likely change with increased attendance and gumption from Petty's fans.
I will be seeing the group for the second and last time this year on September 14 in Richmond, Virginia. As I noted in a previous post the venue is very intimate and should prove to be an excellent conduit for ZZ's hard blues sound. I will include a full report of course.
Progress continues to be made on the Tejas / World Wide Texas chapters. Any input from readers is greatly appreciated.
Also anyone that reads this blog and is coming to the Richmond show please let me know and we can meet up prior to the concert.
Sugar cane...Domino cane...Imperial cane...Yes I can
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Show Review - Clearfield, Pennsylvania August 4th, 2010
Nestled in the mountains Clearfield proved to be a very friendly and beautiful town. Full of working men and woman who make their pay through the sweat of their brow and the toil of their hands, they proved to be a very welcoming and eager audience for ZZ Top. The scenery reminded me of my own youth and upbringing in the mountains of southwestern Virginia.
The skies began to darken as we traveled on the two lane highway, 20 minutes outside of town. In the middle of the warmest summer on record, the day would prove no different in bringing the early evening thunderstorms. Locating the county fair grounds, first by the sound of laughter and machinery, quickly followed by the sight of farris wheels and flashing lights, we chose to park as far from the entrance as possible. Walking away after a concert is always easier than driving, and it sure feels better to be making progress, albeit it slow progress, than sitting in traffic.
Having arrived two hours early we decided to hang out in the Jeep, due in large part to the creshendoed release of the rains, the clouds finally releasing the pressure that had been fortold in the stunning lighting and powerful booms of thunder.
In the CD player was Stockholm, 10/02/1981. My favorite period of the band, the youth and fire of the group blasted through the speakers with utter force and control. Would we see any of the master of sparks that night I wondered.
Having poured for a little over an hour, the heavens finally opened to reveal the dimming sun. The journey to the fairgrounds entrance revealed a well lubricated, but well behaved, constituance. A watchful eye could pick out the ZZ T-shirts amongst the crowd, ranging from ragged Fandango to modern Mescalero. The fair proved to be heavy on food and somewhat light on rides. No matter, I had not come to get nauseous on the teacups, I had a greater purpose.
Discovering our seats were on the exposured grounds of the racetrack, initial concerns about a second occurrence of rain proved unnecessary. The only remanants of the earlier storms would be the cool summer breeze and lowered humidity.
8:00 pm. Showtime. No opening act. No one was in the mood for a warm up anyway, we wanted to see the main attraction. True to form the chants of "ZZ Top, ZZ Top" began to bellow from the middle of the audience, quickly building in tempo and volume.
Pulling aside the curtain Frank's traditional skull kit was revealed. I had hoped the spinning dubs of the green kit would carry over from the last few European shows however it was not to be. The techno music strikingly abated, and with a confident and steady pace Billy emerged from stage left, pointing to the crowd in acknowledgement of their roaring approval. Wearing his African hat and tradional black garb, he looked as smooth as always. It must be said that Dusty pulls off one of the coolest looks in showbiz, complete with weathered modern cowboy hat and stunning black boots. His appearence is unmistakable.
Moving the pick up the fretboard, with the gain on 10 and the volume on 11, Billy relayed the Halen-esque intro to "Under Pressure". On point as ever, the band put a smile on ever face in attendance. The light-bright screen was up and running, and the chorography was in effect.
"Waitin for the Bus" / "Jesus Just Left Chicago" came next. Billy's voice was in good shape (for year 2000 - ) standards. Billy and Dusty showed off some of the moves that can be seen in the 1980 "Double Down Live" show.
The lumbering "Pincushion" was next. To me this song needs to go. If you can only play one song from the RCA era, which is ridiculous on it's own merit, than how about "Bang Bang", "Poke Chop Sandwich" or "Piece". Someone needs to start a "Death to Pincushion" campaign. The shapely blond that appears on the Lite-Bright during the song further reduces my interest in the actual track.
After "Nationwide", with Dusty's still fluent bass skills in full display, my ears welcomed "Future Blues". The first real showcase of Dusty's voice this evening, it came through powerful and clear. With no hesitation he accentuated the close of each verse. Further the relatively new second half of the song where Billy mimics Dusty's vocals on the guitar really add to the song. The audience cheered its approval.
"Rock Me Baby" is a good track, but it reminds me of the excellent version of "Rattlesnake Shake" that they did on the 2005 tour. Ultimely this spot could be better served by a blazing version of "Dust My Broom" but that is only my opinion, I don't speak for the masses or the band.
The "My Head's in Mississippi" tease is painful. The crowd always cheers and immediately begins to sing along. An utter mystery, the arguably strongest track on "Recycler" never received a fair shake from the band, being forever dropped from the set list after the 1990 tour. Night after night it is obvious the crowd recognizes and likes the song; play the damn thing in its entirety.
"Cheap Sunglasses", while pleasing to the crowd, proved unremarkable. "I Need You Tonight" was impressive, showcasing Billy's still formidable guitar prowness, and the crowd found the heavy jam to be a satisfying experience.
Billy, still conductor of the proceedings as he has always been, began to loosen up greatly at this point. Noting the visible sunset he recounted his experiences and meetings with the legendary Hendrix. "Hey Joe" was given some special treatment tonight, with excellent harmonics throughout and spanish lyrics. This track, along with "Legs" uses prominent and extensive piped in keyboards to flesh out the sound.
Acknowledging the audience's enthusastic clapping, Billy extended the solo blues licks intro to "Brown Sugar". Firing on all cyclinders, the group captivated.
"Party On the Patio" was good, but I am becoming suspect of Dusty's vocals. The pitch, tone and pace sounds very similar night after night, making me weary of possible lip-syncing at play. I will watch this carefully at the Richmond show I attend in September.
The best song of the evening "Just Got Paid" came next. Awesome guitar, awesome drums, awesome bass. More than any other track this song brings back memories of the youth and fire of yesterday.
The Eliminator trilogy was in its usual place. Having lip-synced "Legs" for many years now Billy simply must record an updated version of the song if they wish to keep playing this live without creating suspicion. His voice sounds way too clean and clear compared to the rest of the concert, and the casual fans around me remarked at the striking difference. If you must lip-synch it than use a lip-synced recording of your voice from 2010.
The encores of "La Grange" and "Tush" were good fun as always. It is especially enjoyable to see the band photos, both past and present, on the Lite-Bright during Tush.
For the first time in my experience Frank emerged from behind the drum kit and joined his bandmates in an interlocked bow. Nice to see this.
Carefully listening to the conversations of others as we exited the grounds, I noted the exhubarant and praising words of the attendees. ZZ Top had once again brought down the house, uh, fair. Good to be a fan of the best band from the States.
Have mercy...
The skies began to darken as we traveled on the two lane highway, 20 minutes outside of town. In the middle of the warmest summer on record, the day would prove no different in bringing the early evening thunderstorms. Locating the county fair grounds, first by the sound of laughter and machinery, quickly followed by the sight of farris wheels and flashing lights, we chose to park as far from the entrance as possible. Walking away after a concert is always easier than driving, and it sure feels better to be making progress, albeit it slow progress, than sitting in traffic.
Having arrived two hours early we decided to hang out in the Jeep, due in large part to the creshendoed release of the rains, the clouds finally releasing the pressure that had been fortold in the stunning lighting and powerful booms of thunder.
In the CD player was Stockholm, 10/02/1981. My favorite period of the band, the youth and fire of the group blasted through the speakers with utter force and control. Would we see any of the master of sparks that night I wondered.
Having poured for a little over an hour, the heavens finally opened to reveal the dimming sun. The journey to the fairgrounds entrance revealed a well lubricated, but well behaved, constituance. A watchful eye could pick out the ZZ T-shirts amongst the crowd, ranging from ragged Fandango to modern Mescalero. The fair proved to be heavy on food and somewhat light on rides. No matter, I had not come to get nauseous on the teacups, I had a greater purpose.
Discovering our seats were on the exposured grounds of the racetrack, initial concerns about a second occurrence of rain proved unnecessary. The only remanants of the earlier storms would be the cool summer breeze and lowered humidity.
8:00 pm. Showtime. No opening act. No one was in the mood for a warm up anyway, we wanted to see the main attraction. True to form the chants of "ZZ Top, ZZ Top" began to bellow from the middle of the audience, quickly building in tempo and volume.
Pulling aside the curtain Frank's traditional skull kit was revealed. I had hoped the spinning dubs of the green kit would carry over from the last few European shows however it was not to be. The techno music strikingly abated, and with a confident and steady pace Billy emerged from stage left, pointing to the crowd in acknowledgement of their roaring approval. Wearing his African hat and tradional black garb, he looked as smooth as always. It must be said that Dusty pulls off one of the coolest looks in showbiz, complete with weathered modern cowboy hat and stunning black boots. His appearence is unmistakable.
Moving the pick up the fretboard, with the gain on 10 and the volume on 11, Billy relayed the Halen-esque intro to "Under Pressure". On point as ever, the band put a smile on ever face in attendance. The light-bright screen was up and running, and the chorography was in effect.
"Waitin for the Bus" / "Jesus Just Left Chicago" came next. Billy's voice was in good shape (for year 2000 - ) standards. Billy and Dusty showed off some of the moves that can be seen in the 1980 "Double Down Live" show.
The lumbering "Pincushion" was next. To me this song needs to go. If you can only play one song from the RCA era, which is ridiculous on it's own merit, than how about "Bang Bang", "Poke Chop Sandwich" or "Piece". Someone needs to start a "Death to Pincushion" campaign. The shapely blond that appears on the Lite-Bright during the song further reduces my interest in the actual track.
After "Nationwide", with Dusty's still fluent bass skills in full display, my ears welcomed "Future Blues". The first real showcase of Dusty's voice this evening, it came through powerful and clear. With no hesitation he accentuated the close of each verse. Further the relatively new second half of the song where Billy mimics Dusty's vocals on the guitar really add to the song. The audience cheered its approval.
"Rock Me Baby" is a good track, but it reminds me of the excellent version of "Rattlesnake Shake" that they did on the 2005 tour. Ultimely this spot could be better served by a blazing version of "Dust My Broom" but that is only my opinion, I don't speak for the masses or the band.
The "My Head's in Mississippi" tease is painful. The crowd always cheers and immediately begins to sing along. An utter mystery, the arguably strongest track on "Recycler" never received a fair shake from the band, being forever dropped from the set list after the 1990 tour. Night after night it is obvious the crowd recognizes and likes the song; play the damn thing in its entirety.
"Cheap Sunglasses", while pleasing to the crowd, proved unremarkable. "I Need You Tonight" was impressive, showcasing Billy's still formidable guitar prowness, and the crowd found the heavy jam to be a satisfying experience.
Billy, still conductor of the proceedings as he has always been, began to loosen up greatly at this point. Noting the visible sunset he recounted his experiences and meetings with the legendary Hendrix. "Hey Joe" was given some special treatment tonight, with excellent harmonics throughout and spanish lyrics. This track, along with "Legs" uses prominent and extensive piped in keyboards to flesh out the sound.
Acknowledging the audience's enthusastic clapping, Billy extended the solo blues licks intro to "Brown Sugar". Firing on all cyclinders, the group captivated.
"Party On the Patio" was good, but I am becoming suspect of Dusty's vocals. The pitch, tone and pace sounds very similar night after night, making me weary of possible lip-syncing at play. I will watch this carefully at the Richmond show I attend in September.
The best song of the evening "Just Got Paid" came next. Awesome guitar, awesome drums, awesome bass. More than any other track this song brings back memories of the youth and fire of yesterday.
The Eliminator trilogy was in its usual place. Having lip-synced "Legs" for many years now Billy simply must record an updated version of the song if they wish to keep playing this live without creating suspicion. His voice sounds way too clean and clear compared to the rest of the concert, and the casual fans around me remarked at the striking difference. If you must lip-synch it than use a lip-synced recording of your voice from 2010.
The encores of "La Grange" and "Tush" were good fun as always. It is especially enjoyable to see the band photos, both past and present, on the Lite-Bright during Tush.
For the first time in my experience Frank emerged from behind the drum kit and joined his bandmates in an interlocked bow. Nice to see this.
Carefully listening to the conversations of others as we exited the grounds, I noted the exhubarant and praising words of the attendees. ZZ Top had once again brought down the house, uh, fair. Good to be a fan of the best band from the States.
Have mercy...
Monday, August 9, 2010
Trading List / Want List updated; Houston March 18th 2007
I have fully updated my trading list - a lot of new entries so please take a look. I have also updated my specific want list; of course I am always willing to trade for any shows I don't have, not just the ones on my want list.
Lastly I am very interested in finding a copy of ZZ's 03/18/2007 show in Houston, TX. Surely some kind soul has a copy or knows where I can trade for a copy. There are at least two audio versions, both said to be of excellent quality. I will trade 10:1 for this show. Please contact me if you know where I can find this great concert. Thank you!!
Lastly I am very interested in finding a copy of ZZ's 03/18/2007 show in Houston, TX. Surely some kind soul has a copy or knows where I can trade for a copy. There are at least two audio versions, both said to be of excellent quality. I will trade 10:1 for this show. Please contact me if you know where I can find this great concert. Thank you!!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
ZZ Top appearance rider / Clearfield, PA show update
Found some very interesting stuff on the web earlier this weekend. For all those intrigued by insider information on ZZ, I suggest you visit the following site:
www.thesmokinggun.com/backstage/hall-fame/zz-top
Click on the "view the document" section on the left hand side of the page. What you will find is 5 pages of the band's rider agreement provided to the promoter or venue manager in advance of each show. Keep in mind I have no way to verify the authenticity or accuracy of this document, and in no way represent it to be the absolute truth. I am not even sure of the year of the document. Still the findings are very interesting.
A few points to be made about what the document states:
- I'm guessing the oxygen and mask needed 30 minutes prior to and through to 30 minutes post show is due to Dusty's asthma. Hopefully he is not a regular smoker; he can clearly be seen in the "Live From Texas" DVD puffing on a cigarette. I suppose it could also be available to assist with warming up Dusty and Billy's throats/vocals for the about to be concert, but I doubt it.
- Mariah Carey, notorious for pre-show requests, can't hold a candle to ZZ. Actually I'm kidding. But the extensive amount of food, drink and accomodations is surprising.
- Billy obviously still loves Mexican food, as can be seen in the extensive requirement of Mexican type dishes and sauces.
- If "Tab" cola ever decides to advertise Frank Beard absolutely must be their sponsor. I bet he would do it for free. Having consumed the beverage in large quantities since the early '80's this man has Tab running through his veins.
-----
Attended the Clearfield, PA county fair show on August 4th. Overall a great show, with abundant guitar variations and improvisations from Billy that an intermediate and above ZZ fan would knowingly pick up. Show also appears to have fully sold out despite a rather expensive ticket price. A full review is forthcoming.
www.thesmokinggun.com/backstage/hall-fame/zz-top
Click on the "view the document" section on the left hand side of the page. What you will find is 5 pages of the band's rider agreement provided to the promoter or venue manager in advance of each show. Keep in mind I have no way to verify the authenticity or accuracy of this document, and in no way represent it to be the absolute truth. I am not even sure of the year of the document. Still the findings are very interesting.
A few points to be made about what the document states:
- I'm guessing the oxygen and mask needed 30 minutes prior to and through to 30 minutes post show is due to Dusty's asthma. Hopefully he is not a regular smoker; he can clearly be seen in the "Live From Texas" DVD puffing on a cigarette. I suppose it could also be available to assist with warming up Dusty and Billy's throats/vocals for the about to be concert, but I doubt it.
- Mariah Carey, notorious for pre-show requests, can't hold a candle to ZZ. Actually I'm kidding. But the extensive amount of food, drink and accomodations is surprising.
- Billy obviously still loves Mexican food, as can be seen in the extensive requirement of Mexican type dishes and sauces.
- If "Tab" cola ever decides to advertise Frank Beard absolutely must be their sponsor. I bet he would do it for free. Having consumed the beverage in large quantities since the early '80's this man has Tab running through his veins.
-----
Attended the Clearfield, PA county fair show on August 4th. Overall a great show, with abundant guitar variations and improvisations from Billy that an intermediate and above ZZ fan would knowingly pick up. Show also appears to have fully sold out despite a rather expensive ticket price. A full review is forthcoming.
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