ZZ Top-Afterburner (1985)

In the 1980s, the Texas band Z.Z. Top embarked on a new phase, moving towards a more conventional and commercial sound. Their earlier work, primarily their first four albums, was rooted in blues and boogie with a Southern rock influence. This new direction was underpinned by the inclusion of wind instruments, such as the saxophones played by the band members under the pseudonym Lone Wolf Horns. While "Eliminator" saw the trio begin incorporating synthesizers and danceable rhythms, their subsequent album, "Afterburner", marked a definitive shift, creating a work that, from the perspective of the pure Southern blues of their earlier releases, temporarily brought an end to their sound, showcasing infectious and danceable rhythms. Songs like "Sleeping Bag", "Stages", and "Velcro Fly" achieved resounding success thanks to MTV and its exciting music videos. However, they still showcase their characteristic bluesy rhythm in the older tracks with an updated sound, such as "Can't Stop Rockin' ", "Rough Boy", and "Dipping Low (In The Lap of Luxury)". "Afterburner" would follow the same path as "Eliminator", selling over ten million copies worldwide and becoming a staple in nightclubs across half the globe.