El Loco  by ZZ Top

El Loco is the seventh studio album by ZZ Top, which was released on July 15, 1981, by Warner Bros. Records. It represents a pivotal point in the band's history, as it marks the transition from the traditional blues-rock sound to the experimental use of synthesizers that dominated the rest of the '80s. The album retains its roots in blues rock and boogie rock but introduces synthesizers and drum machines for the first time. Billy Gibbons was influenced by bands from the New Wave scene, such as Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), leading to a more "edgy" and experimental sound.

The record was recorded in late 1980 and early 1981. Gibbons has stated that it was the first time the members recorded isolated from one another in the studio, rather than playing live in the same space. A significant role was played by (then unrecognized) Linden Hudson, who assisted with the use of synthesizers and drum machines. Tube Snake Boogie, Pearl Necklace, and an unusual ballad for the band, Leila, were the standout songs from ZZ Top's album.

El Loco reached No. 17 on the Billboard 200 in the USA and No. 88 in the United Kingdom.