THE ZEROS
Right Now! (LP) | New | Order
American Punk-Rock group formed in 1976 in Chula Vista, California. The band was originally formed with Javier Escovedo (vocals/guitar), Robert Lopez (guitar), Héctor Penalosa (bass) and Baba Chenelle (drums). Often referred to as “the Mexican Ramones,” they were just one of many contributors to the city of Los Angeles’ Punk explosion in the late ’70s.
Although they never received the acclaim like their contemporaries Black Flag, Circle Jerks or Germs and Wipers.
The quartet broke up in 1981, reformed sporadically for live shows, and recorded a 1999 album “Right Now!”. They have more followers and fans outside of the United States, especially Europe and Spain in particular.
The album “Right Now!” was published on October 12, 1999. The band had broken up in 1981, but returned in the 90s, and although they did not have a large “cache” in the United States, they were and continue to be very popular in Europe and Australia.
Versions of songs by The Zeros were released by the Los Angeles bands Wednesday Week (“They Say That Everything’s Alright”), The Muffs (“Beat Your Heart Out”), the Basques La Secta (“Wild Weekend”), the Australians Hoodoo Gurus or the Swedes The Nomads (“Wimp”).
The label “the Mexican Ramones” did not take into account their other revealing influences: pre-Punk and Garage-Rock bands. THE ZEROS make it evident on this album, releasing covers of New York Dolls among others. But the originals, the examples “They Say (That Everything’s Alright)” and “Handgrenade Heart”, also exploit the spirit of loud, strident rock. There are also slow and melodic, sloppy and dirty Pop songs to satisfy all tastes.
Musicality is a point with this album. Remember that in the 70s they were teenagers. By recording this album more than 20 years later, they have better control over their instruments and have gained experience.
An excellent album. Ideal to have a good time and enjoy good Rock. Also, for those who don’t know THE ZEROS, an excellent introductory album, so you can then review their catalogue.