Billy Gibbons : Hardware Review

Guitarist Billy F. Gibbons returns with his third solo album, Hardware. were readily available. The frontman from ZZ Top presents twelve growling blues-rock selections with an outstanding cast of musicians and a diverse set of songs. Drummer Matt Sorum, of Guns’ N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver, and guitarist Austin Hanks shine on Hardware, which was produced by Gibbons, Sorum, and Mike Fiorentino and engineered by Chad Shlosser. The album brings the heat with plenty of Texas attitude.

“My Lucky Card” is built around a fuzzy Texas blues riff with Gibbons’ gravelly singing. The band is steady and deep with feeling as the song progresses. Gibbons turn in a beautiful slide guitar solo, filled with allure and the blues. Gibbons and company know how to create an atmosphere with a song, which yields a powerful listening experience.

“She’s on Fire” is an upbeat groove number with driving bass, energetic cymbals, and bluesy riffs. The background vocals provide a backdrop for Gibbons’ vocal fills and shrills. His solo is filled with his trademark double stops and tasteful phrasing. The song builds its allure on a strong riff and feel and keeps the form simple and straight to the point.

Hardware is mostly originals with a few choice covers. The flow is a big and bold Texas rock/blues project that we have come to know and love from Gibbons. This is a should for guitar devotees and blues enthusiasts. Several selections like “Spanish Fly” and “Satackin’ Bones” will have a cross-generational appeal.

Billy Gibbons: Website