Deguello – ZZ TOP***

I Thank You/She Loves My Automobile/I'm Bad I'm Nationwide/A Fool For Your Stockings/Manic Mechanic/Dust My Broom/Lowdown In The Street/Hi Fi Mama/Cheap Sunglasses/Esther Be The One

Deguello was the lowest charting ZZ Top album since they achieved major commercial success. However, this boogie-rock band would recover their appeal to enjoy considerable popularity during the next decade. (US:24)

“Deguello is a fine album which boasts some of their best songs for years. Although not their best, it's a stoner’s treat of phased vocals and thumping bass which really rewards listening.”

“ZZ Top didn't need to reinvent themselves to release classics, and basically all their albums have the same formula, the only thing that is different is the songwriting consistency, because there is at least one total hit and sure concert song on every album. Here that total hit is Cheap Sunglasses, but the heavy blues of A Fool For Your Stockings is also great.”

“The trio line-up can be the source of incredible power if the musicians play tight, but on Degüello, they just don't. It's an album devoid of tension, punch and memorable songs. If that wasn't enough, this was the time in which disco crept into almost every album, including this one, and blues rock with synths, even if used sparingly, just doesn't make a lot of sense.”

“This was the first mediocre ZZ Top album, and the beginning of the end for this band. They moved away from the classic blues sound for a hybrid with modern overtones and a lot of self-parody. It is OK though, some riffs are there and some good songs but overall it lacks the old ZZ Top charisma.”

“Classic ZZ Top before all the electronic noise in the background; the gritty, raw rock sound that made them into the successful band. These guys are outstanding musicians and that is showcased in this album.”

“I'm not normally into Texas blues but this LP is the epitome of just that. Almost live 70s vibe for sure, very raw production, nice guitars and really superb rhythm section. You'll even get used to the voice which is really only suited to this kind of music”

“On this album they sound energized, ready to make music, try some new ideas, and have a bit of fun in the process.”