Starting out as a muddy blues band, ZZ Top achieved its biggest hit success when it added drum computers and synthesizers to the band's sound. A completely original blues rock sound was the result. The indestructible image (the beards) and especially the smart video clips did the rest. The gimmick worked for several years, then the commercial success was over and ZZ Top concentrated on playing live
… again. Although sheet metal has not been the top priority for many years, the CD Mescalero is more than a routine job to keep the fans busy for a while. The viscous blues rock does not sound essentially different than it used to be, but there is always a catch, so ZZ Top never becomes a parody in itself. Just listen to the flirts with country (Goin So Good and What Would You Do), rockabilly (What It Is, Kid) and funk rock (Stackin 'Paper). ZZ is still great. (MS)more
