1981 Original with inner sleeve. "El Loco" is the seventh studio album by the American rock band ZZ Top, released in 1981. Known for its blend of blues rock and hard rock, the album marked a transitional period for the band as they began incorporating more synthesizers and new wave influences into their music. This shift in sound would later become more pronounced in their subsequent albums. "El Loco" features a mix of up-tempo tracks and bluesy numbers, showcasing the band's signature style with Billy Gibbons' gritty guitar work, Dusty Hill's steady bass lines, and Frank Beard's dynamic drumming. Standout tracks include "Tube Snake Boogie," "Pearl Necklace," and "Party on the Patio," which capture the band's distinct blend of humor and high-energy rock.

The cover art for "El Loco" is as vibrant and quirky as the music itself, featuring a surreal scene that complements the album's title, which translates to "The Crazy One" in Spanish. While not achieving the same commercial success as some of the band's later works, "El Loco" is often appreciated by fans for its experimental edge and catchy riffs. The album paved the way for ZZ Top's exploration into more electronically influenced sounds, which would become more prominent in their subsequent releases, such as the highly successful "Eliminator." Overall, "El Loco" is a significant entry in ZZ Top's discography, reflecting the band's willingness to evolve while maintaining their core rock and blues identity.