Road Tapes, Venue #3 - Frank Zappa

This is the third release in the, Road Tapes series released by the Frank Zappa family. It contains concerts, all thus far with The Mothers, and was started back in 2012. This recording finds itself from July 5th, 1970 and was recorded at the Tyrone Guthrie Theater, in Minneapolis Minnesota. The only part of this concert that's ever been released was the 9 minutes that make up Nancy & Mary Music off Chunga's Revenge. I once had heard a bootleg, parts, from the month, July 2nd (?) 1970. So its been years, but yeah. Basically the point is I can probably guess how this will sound, but let's be hopeful.

1. Tyrone Start the Tape: I can assume, based off the past few releases, this is either a chat/rap or just tuning up. Like this probably isn't really a track, more of a thing left in to get you in the feeling of the show. A preamble if you may. And to my surprise, I'm correct.
2. King Kong: Right off the bat we get Kong, which by now is actually pretty solid. While I enjoy the 60's performances, they weren't as together. By that I mean, it has parts that aren't as interesting. But to my surprise, this isn't the same exciting version I've heard on albums/recordings from this period. I mean it isn't terrible but it isn't mind blowing. It's more at the tempo of the original, maybe a bit faster, but not nearly as fast as it'd eventually become. I really like the keys in this one. In fact that might be my favorite part. 
3. Wonderful Wino: I was glad to see this, and the next few tracks on the track listing. I like the performances of these tunes during this tour/era. This isn't half bad, I like the Bringing In The Sheers intro, but this performance, and the quality of the audio.... I could listen to Freaks & Motherfu*#@%! or Disconnected Synapses. I mean really, I was hoping this'd be awesome and it kind of isn't. 
4. Concentration Moon: I dig this, but the second this started my heart sunk. I really should just be listening to Freaks & Motherfu*#@%!.
5. Mom & Dad: This is another favorite of mine, but what is brought to the table. Nothing new.
6. The Air: A great tune from Uncle Meat. Just listen to Playground Psychotics version.
7. Dog Breath: This version isn't half bad, I kinda dig it. It's pretty fun. It isn't mixed with Uncle Meat or anything so it goes by pretty fast. 
8. Mother People: This is another track I can dig, but I doubt I'll ever re-listen to it. I mean I'm open to other performances of this, but the Money versions so ingrained in me its almost like trying to make a better star wars than Empire or the original. 
9. You Didn't Try to Call Me: Again, what's the fucking point. The ending is nice, but yeah I don't really see much of one. 
10. Agon - Interlude: This is a selection from the Stravinsky composed Agon ballet. I really like when they played Petrushka in the song, and loved the Octandre but like what's the point. Why not release a Zappa covers Stravinsky and some of his other favorite composers album. That'd be much better and more interesting instead of giving us a load of bullshit that sounds terrible. Now on to the thing I've been waiting to hear, and it goes by so fast I couldn't make heads or tails. When I came back to hear it again, if I didn't know it was this before, I could easily mix it up for a little segue and not a Stravinsky cover or quote. 
11. Call Any Vegetable: Better version's on Just Another Band From L.A. All thought I did like the Invocation and Ritual Dance of the Young Pumpkin and the solos aren't horseshit. It's good enough, thought again the other versions better. When it gets to Soft-Cell Conclusion I think it's okay, but they best part is the solos. They really get into the jam, and to be honest, it's pretty freaking great. I'm not gonna lie. Everyone here is doing a great job, and I love the drums during that solo.
12. King Kong / Igor's Boogie: Kong Returns, with Igor's Boogie attached to it. While I prefer this over the first attempt at a Kong this clocks in at about 22 minutes and it isn't half bad to be honest. Like this might be the first track I genuinely want to come back to. I don't want to get into too much detail, I would rather someone...... Maybe check this one song out on YouTube or something. Ian's sax solo is pretty interesting to me I don't know. This is realistically one of a few tracks I'll come back to. Also I like what I'm hearing from Ansley. Then there is this vocal thing and it goes into a Zappa solo, this is what I like to hear on a new record. While not completely new, it isn't the exact same thing I can find on something else. And if it is it's still solid in it's own right.
13. It Can't Happen Here: Oh also, great right, this track is 3 minutes long and the first 40 or so seconds is the song and the rest is a preamble into Sharleena.
14. Sharleena: This is a favorite of mine from the era, which I feel like is a solid tune. I like this live setting for the song, I really like the way the organ sounds. While were back to the noticeable lesser quality vocals (recording wise not singing) I wish it was louder. I don't know if you care to know this, but this was recorded the month following the studio version. The album version is dated June 1970, this is July 5th, 1970. I think its a solid rendition of the tune. I also like the guitar in it.

Now on to the second disc of the album. 

1. The 23rd "Mondellos": This begins the second show and this just happens to be preamble basically.
2. Justine: So I had to look up where this song was from originally, and it's a cover of the Don and Dewis track from 1958. Something I noticed when I looked it up was the fact that the Harris credited as a writer is Sugarcane Harris. So that made me wonder, while anticipating the record, is he on this thing. He very well could be, And to my dismay, this turned out to be a flop. It kind of was terrible to be honest. Kind cock rocky, but in a bad way.
3. Pound For A Brown: I actually quite enjoy this version of the song. I mean it's not a far cry from other Mothers of Invention versions, but I still dig it. I like how it's kinda laid back and chill. While this isn't Zappa's most energetic or into it solo, I still like the tone of the solo.
4. Sleeping in a Jar: I like the flow into this track a lot, it was seamless and I only knew because it said the track changed on my Last.fm iTunes scrobbler. This is a well enough jazzy version of the track, and I dig it. There are theses electronics that sound like they would be on an album, because of studio mess about's, but they aren't I dig those. Ansley starts up this drum patter I really liked
5. Sharleena: Why the fuck have the same song twice, really. This is another version of the track. I mean this is basically the same as the album and the other version. So really it's like having the same track twice.
6. "A Piece of Contemporary Music": Now I don't know if this is a joke or not, but it kinds reminds me of the Mario song at parts. But it also sounds like something that I really dig. I like the playfulness of it, and dig what's going on here. The track is pretty solid in my eyes. It's almost like a free formed Bebop Tango sort of. Or maybe a first attempt at something like that. Then there is a part that reminds me so fucking much of Desert Search for Techno Allah. This definitely is a proto Mr. Bungle piece. Just check it out your self.
7. The Return of the Hunchback Duke: This piece also includes The Little House I Used to Live In and Holiday in Berlin. I don't think this is as good as the other long track, and I think maybe it's because of their singing that goofs it up. I mean I'd rather it just be an instrumental, but it isn't terrible. There are moments I hear something great, but far more that are just okay or average I guess.
8. Crusing For Burgers: You know I don't know how I feel about this. I mean I really dig later versions of the track, but I mean I don't know if I'm feeling this version. It kinda feels like somethings missing.
9. Let's Make The Water Turn Black: This is kinda faithful to the original, but I mean again, nothing really new here.
10. Harry, You're A Beast: Same thing as the last track. If were being honest.
11. Oh No/Orange County Lumber Truck: They managed to make an underwhelming version of those..,,... HOW! HOW!!!!! Really I've heard a fucking 20 minutes version of this on Road Tapes 
12. Call Any Vegetable: Again, why have the same song twice. It's not even like its on different dates, it's kinda the same thing. The only real saving grace is here there's a sax solo instead of a guitar solo. But I mean, I guess that's a nice difference, but then why..... I just feel like the two inclusions were pointless. I mean it's a concert, but still. And sadly, I am kinda bored at this point. I just want this to end.
13. Mondello's Revenge: Hey another talking track. Not really much else Going in to be honest. 
14. The Clap (Chunga's Revenge): Okay, so I'm not exactly sure what to expect. It's called Chungas Revenge, but the last tracks title hinted at that being Chunga's (alla Buffalo's Revenge). But I also know that there exists an percussion only track on that album that shares this title.  Wait, that intro got me, really it pulled me in. It sort of woke me up if were being honest. This isn't amazing, but you know fuck it, it's good enough and I dig it. While it's kinda lowkey, it mean other songs on this were to so it kind of sonically fits you know.

Overall I have to give this third installment a 6/10. To be honest there is no point in this being released. Other than the new tracks, there was no reason. I was excited to hear this, I was like maybe it'll be as good as the other ones. I was very wrong, in fact I decided to continue this review to tell people not to pay for this unless you absolutely need to. I will list now albums that have been released in that make this pointless basically (in order of release). Chunga's Revenge, Filmore East - June 1971, maybe 200 Motels, Just Another Band From L.A., You Can't Do That On Stage series Vol. 1, 3 and 6, Freaks & Motherfu*#@%!, Disconected Synapses, Tengo Na Minchia Tanta, two tracks off At The Circus, Swiss Cheese/Fire!, Playground Psychotics, Carnegie Hall, Finer Moments and you know what, if you're so inclined listen to the fucked up John & Yoko mixes of songs off Playground Psychotics off their 1972 live album Some Time in New York City. I figured since I knew how I felt there wouldn't be much of a reason to hold off on this review. Maybe I'm being to harsh, I mean the instruments are the highlights, but then again I've heard better versions you know.

Young And Rich - The Tubes

This follows the classic 1975 Self Titled debut album by The Tubes. Instead of Al Kooper on production, they got Ken Scott to produce. This album is the first to feature Re Styles, the girl who's hand is on the covers of the first two albums, and also that's really the only difference between the first and second I know of. You know there isn't even that much info about this album on the web either.

1. Tubes World Tour: This opens the album with an explosive track. It kind of is like a world tour recollection by way of Aerosmith's 1979 song No Suprise. Well with an percussion heavy chorus, and song Utopia keys. And a really funky solo. While not as explosive as the debut it's still pretty great. This is one for the few moments on this album that has this much excitement, or at least pulls me in this much. It's very fun to hear and kinda of makes you want to love this album. It might not be the same pull the previous album had, but it comes pretty damn close. During right before the solo there are sounds that remind me a ton of Space Baby. Then after the solo I had to laugh when I heard the accordion. Which works very well here. I also like the little touches and changes in this song. This really is a Tubes tune.
2. Brighter Day: I heard this about five times now and I can't remember a single second other than its softer than the intro. Upon listening to this for the review, like in the moment, it's very Thin Lizzy sounding. At the very least in terms of Fee. The backing vocals, at parts remind me of Bowie's backing vocals on some songs. I think the best part is the classical guitar in the song and the solo. It's nothing that crazy or mind blowing, but it keeps the mood of a slower song and doesn't blow the steam away by the end. Upon revisiting this, it isn't terrible, it's just a bit different. I guess should also mention, those dual guitars (or what sounds like it) do pull on my heartstrings a bit. I mean still this isn't a 10 or anything more of a 7 or 8.
3. Pimp: This is the type of track that I see The Tubes covering, but they cover it so unenthusiastic. I mean it's tracks like this that beckon the question, did they really want to be there. Well at least they didn't really go full out funk. There are some parts that sound like they added funk instrumentation, strings, bass heavy, and a harpsichord or a clavi. But the string swells are gorgeous. This song, if it was more alive would probably be as good as a song off the last album. Actually this sounds like it could have been an outtake from the last album. Earlier I said it was unenthusiastic, yes it's very much so. Like this song could have been epic, but they went the subdued way... but not to it's real benefit. I mean yes I have Morricone flashbacks (good thing), but it's just his music punches me in the heart sometimes.... this makes me kind of feel something, but not the brought to tears emotions that Ennio can.
4. Stand Up and Shout: This is a rocker. The thing is this isn't really anything special. Ok maybe the piano rolls are kinda cool, but still. This isn't anything you can't really hear on any other album that has a rocker. There is a similar-Tubes World Tour feeling to this tune, but it's not as exciting. This also sort of reminds me of maybe the cover of Let's Spend The Night Together off Aladdin Sane. Just not as...... engaging. Even that little talking thing Fee does reminds me of the sort of breakdown in the cover.
5. Don't Touch Me There: This is my favorite tracks here. Not that there is a ton to work with, so to say, this still stands out as a great. This is supposedly a "send up" of Phil Spector's wall of sound production. I can see that, but this is still my favorite track. I think the reason it is is because it's very doowop/brill pop influenced. The biggest problem is probably the "wall of sound" that I didn't realize was there. For whatever reason I don't care for the type of production. Now sometimes it is perfect, and awesome River Deep, Mountain High, other times it gives me a headache after multiple listens, Long And Winding Road. But its fitting seeing how it's a tribute to it. I don't know, I'd love to hear another version of this song because it'd be a 10 if it wasn't for that production. Seriously. This song is also very reminiscent, with the vocals and what not, of a Ronettes track. Hell Shirley (Re Styles real name) even vaguely reminds me of Ronnie or Veronica Bennett when she sings. Also this needs to be said, two people who are not in the Tubes, wrote this track.
6. Slipped My Disco: Dancin' Fool and Disco Boy did it better. Also this song isn't really anything that I remember after hearing it. It's kinda like Brighter Day. There is this weird sort of reggae thing they do in the chorus, I think this is an interesting song, that I feel like if I went into actually what was going on (notes) it'd like it more. But audibly, I feel like there is something missing. I do laugh at the slickness of the way he says the title. And the ending gets pretty solid, but yeah. I just don't think it's as funny as a tune off the prior album.
7. Proud to Be An American: "Were at least i know I'm free." This basically a lesser sequel of the What Do You Want From Life? track off their debut. This is done in a very Elvis rockabilly feeling. It's harmless. Oh, I figured it out, this would totally appeal to a Rockabilly or it's a pretty solid tune. Also if you care, you should look into those lyrics. There are a giggle or two given.
8. Poland Whole / Madam I'm Adam: At 6:31 this is the longest track here. The second longest being 5:03 on the next track, nothing after that is longer than 4:42. So while not super long, it's quite a bit longer than most of the songs. It starts very, I feel like this is an epic tune but I also feel like it's trying to recapture moments that open the debut. The tune is still pretty solid in it's own right, it's just I feel like it's trying to redo it a bit. I think it's pretty hard rockin', but yeah. It does make me smile though to hear Fee go "crazy". He sounds like a crazy person a bit. Oh one last thing, I like those little touches to the song.
9. Young and Rich: Closing the album we get a lounge acoustic track. And honestly, this is a fitting end. I feel satisfied when I hear this close the album. There is a chill feeling to this that I think fits considering it was chill on other tunes. Also really diging that organ/keyboard/synth what ever it may be. That solo melody is really nice, and the drums sound awesome here. And I love that build and all the little details that are happening here. Great great ending.

Overall I have to give this a 7/10. While its enjoyable it has its problems. What's wrong here only continues on to the next album. There are great tracks here, and then there are ok tracks. I assume Al didn't produce this either because of them not wanting it to sound like the last or because he was busy. I understand both cases, but still. When I hear the first album it makes me pine for singers and groups to gain an ounce of the personality that Fee has, but here it sounds like he's devolved into an everyday guy trying to be eccentric. And the group and recording doesn't seem as fun either. I should note the addition to the group didn't mess anything up. The song she sings is one of the best, if not the best.

Triple Brutal - Austrian Death Machine

This is the third studio album by Tim Lambesis' project Austrian Death Machine. This project's first album was fresh and original in it's idea and approach. While the second album, Double Brutal, was kind of original and had a slightly different sound than the previous album. But this thing is something that was released April 1st, 2014 after Tim was arrested and, just look up the story yourself. But the biggest thing I have to say, as a Christian, the biggest heart break is a man losing his faith. If he had no faith then what's his views, but losing faith is a terrible and sad thing.

1. Neah 1, 2: This is the intro and is ultimately nowhere near as funny as the other intros on the other albums. Actually the whole Arnie thing is getting to be overdone, the man doing the voices sounds more like he has a mental disability than he's Austrian.
2. I'll Be Back: This sounds way too much like Get To The Chopper to be interesting. From the sound to the form, come one.
3. Chill Out Dickwad: You know, for as angry as their music was I never recall a cus word in any of As I Lay Dying or Austrian Death Machine lyrics. This is just poor taste and forced. Which is the ultimante sin in comedy, forcing something. It needs to be natural.
4. Prepare To Be Conquered: This song is actually the first song here that I can say I've heard and liked. The love song part is actually pretty, I think it's kind of funny and reminds me a little of Frodo (Don't Wear The Ring) by Flight Of The Conchords.
5. One More Rep: This intro sounds like a track off his 80's work out album. That had song like Raining Men and other hits in the background while he tells you "one, two three". That albums hilarious, but this song isn't anything they'ven't done before.
6. I Hope You Leave Enough Room For My Fist: This is from Running Man and samples a line from the movie in the intro. This song isn't that bad, and it is pretty in line with Bring Me The Horizon's debut album from 2006/2007. This though, has some progression from the last album.
7. Pumping And Humping: The intro is the same type of one as One More Rep and kind of funny. I like that I can hear the bass in this song. It sounds like it's being slapped.
8. Crom: This sounds like Arnold's voice over a song from Shadows Are Security, except heavier bass playing.
9. I Eat Green Berets For Breakfast: This song is just like the others.
10. You Lack Discipline (There Is No Bathroom For You): Come On
11. Acting Advice: I don't think that this is funny. Tim sounds like he's pissed off. I think it sounds forced and not light hearted like before.
12. I Know Now Why You Cry: You know, I didn't retain anything from that song.
13. I Lied: I have nothing to say about this track.
14. Brutolitics: ...............
15. Get Your Story Straight: I was hoping for a heartfelt song about his future incarceration.
16. Brutal Recall: I think it's funny he's pointing out my least favorite part of Decas, but outside of that this isn't anything that good.
17. I'm Not A Pervert: I originally liked these songs. I thought they were funny but now this is on an album released like three years later. Come on, but it's still the best song here. This song sounds more like the songs on the previous album. I also like the whole breakdown, and think the Arnold voice is funny, but not hilarious, but mainly because of the reference to Jingle All The Way.
18. It's Turbo Time: This song is pretty punk in that he's not screaming. Also you can understand Tim.

Overall I have to say that the "bonus tracks" were good but this gets a 4/10. Other than to say you heard it, or out of curiosity, but don't say I didn't warn you. I did this review about a month ago on April 10th, 2014 but because of Jazz month waited to upload it. The whole Tim thing sucks and you know I don't think that I can judge him, it's not my place, but you know...... Let's hope this is the last album by this project and hope the new debut album coming out from other AILD members is hopeful. Esp since Jordan mentioned wanting to pursue styles he'd want to. EXPANSION and EXPERIMENTATION

NOTE: JAZZ MONTH MIGHT NOT HAPPEN AND NEED A REVIEW

Zoot Allures - Frank Zappa

This is the first album since the final ending of The Mothers of Invention. Though there are some Mothers on this album, Terry Bozzio, Captain Beefheart, among a few others. This is pretty much like Zappa's Diamond Dogs. Why may you ask I said this. Not because it's stylistically, but because they both played main parts with fewer contributions from others. I feel that overall though this was kind of just put together. But this was released on Warner after a dispute on his own DiscReet Records and Herb his business partner. That led to Bat Chain Puller not being released until 2012.

1. Wind Up Working At A Gas Station: Davey the guy who sings on this also sings on Lemme Take You To The Beach. This song continues the continuity of gas stations. You can hear his voice in the backing vocals. This is a good intro and grabs your attention. Though the lyrics are still silly that doesn't really ruin the song. I like the counter voices part. Good example is like in the end of New Religion by Duran Duran. It's a quick 2:30. A decent track {6/10}
2. Black Napkins: This became one of Zappa's most famous guitar pieces. Along with instrumentals like Zoot Allures and Watermelon In Easter Hay, I don't think that there are many that top in terms of being known. The Deathless Horsie is great, but I don't think it's probably as well known. Of the 4 mentioned two are on this album. This song is smooth and kind of relaxing. It was "captured" at Osaka, Japan in 1976 on February 3rd. I don't know if there are overdubs on this track or not. The outro is better than the rest. Where it kind of doubles tempo or speeds up. I think it sounds cool. 
3. The Torture Never Stops: The only thing Zappa doesn't do on this track is drums and moans. This is an awesome track. He, along with, Gail and another woman recorded several hours of "recreational activities" audio. That is the moans and squeaks and squeals in this track. This is a dark track and great when it comes to imagery. Even with lines like "the night of the iron sausage" this is still dark. There is a picture that happens in this song and those moans fit it. It's sick he put those in there and they fit. And the keys are pretty sick, pre-chorus,  and also chorus. The long solo in this song is played and the moans "solo" too. I couldn't imagine going on a date then playing this song. Well, unless you're into that Läther stuff. "Choke me out, gauge me with a spoon" you know what I mean? I do have to be in the mood to tolerate this long solo though. The tracks fine, it's just that part. I love the "pig squeals" right before the lyrics come back in. Post solo there is an interesting part right at "locked away down there". That instrumental "fill" after the line. That's sick. The ending of this song is a pretty cool. I enjoy it, and think that sit is kind of worth it. The ending is not just a repeat of the beginning, it's kind of messed with. It makes it neat. Solid bass line to. 
4. Ms Pinky: Out of the numerous versions of this track, my least favorite is this one. This is the backing track for Thing-Fish's version too. I don't care for the darkness of the instruments. That's odd for me to say, but let me explain a little better. The guitar/bass overdrive thing isn't doing it for me. Maybe it'd sound better on vinyl and make the crunch warmer, but right now I'm just ok with it. This track is much more interesting on Buffalo or YCDTOSA, Vol. 6. This is a good song, but not so much this version. This song is also classic Zappa sexual humor with this being about a sex toy. 
5. Find Her Finer: This song has a kind of country vibe to it with the harmonica. Like the last song, this is a sexual themed song. Except this is about, as on Philly '76 the "virtual instruction booklet on how to do it". "It" being how to get laid. This song is just ok, I don't think that it's anything that amazing. I like Lady Bianca's vocals in the Philly version more. I think they add more of an atmosphere.
6. Friendly Little Finger: This track is much better than the prior. This was supposedly, according to the man himself, a creation of Xenchrony. I like this more than the prior track. I like how it fits but it's kind of off, it's like Rubber Shirts but this has more of a drive to it. This is solid enough to be alone by itself. It's kind of like complete madness. But I like that its like that. The very ending reminds me of Aerosmith. This track is sick, better on the 2012 Remaster and contains the intro to Wonderful Wino.
7. Wonderful Wino: The music for the track was written by Simmons and the lyrics by FZ. Part of this track date back to about '73. Tracks like this are the reason Zappa bootlegs rock. There are a bunch of different versions, live and studio, of this song. The original Jeff Simmons' track from 1970, the Flo & Eddie live version (playground psychotics, or freaks & motherfu*#@%!), the Ricky Lancelotti version from 1973 (lost episodes), this version. I don't know what my favorite version is, but I know it's not this one. This is a solid version, but I'm not huge on Frank's voice in the track. You understand what he's saying but it's ultimately between Ricky and Jeff for the best version. The same backing track on Ricky's was the same as this albums version.
8. Zoot Allures: This song is basically chords. It's not all that complex of what I imagined it to be based of it being the title track. This is really chill-axed a ton. This is a song I could see someone smoking too. This is another of Zappa's self claimed signature pieces. This is a very unique song and I like the bizarre vibe from it. Also the vibraphones in this track (?). The solo is playing over a solid backing that contains a harp or something that sounds like a harp. It's hard to hear, but pretty. The song fades out.
9. Disco Boy: This is a solid track, the 2012 Cd having the full intro and outro of the song. This is a fun song and glad to hear the whole thing. The 2012 remaster has something's I don't remember, mainly because the Ryko cut it out. The guitar in this track is cool and a towards the end sounds like a surf guitar a little. There are parts where it kind of just pops up (synth), but sounds cool. This is slow though and not very exciting. It kind of drags a little. I like the synths too. I like the guitar at the end, before it gets distorted. 

Overall I have to give this album a 6/10. This is his most "Straight"-"Forward"* album I know of by him. This is certainly has an atmosphere to it, and it's dark and it's dry. I wouldn't want to hang around this guy based on this album. This is not a first discover album for someone who wants to get into him, but this is a good album for maybe a guitarist.

Apostrophe (') - Frank Zappa

This is one of the first Frank Zappa albums I ever heard. At first I thought it was OK  but it grew on me. The thing about it is that I wasn't huge on it at first. It was kind of like, my now favorite album I've ever heard, Abbey Road. At first I didn't like all the songs on that album at first. But when I actually listened to it I liked it more. That's how a lot of albums are, and songs. I remember watching the Classic Albums movie about Over-Nite Sensation/Apostrophe (') one. I thought that it was one of the coolest documentary I'd ever seen. My friend Jason was sleeping over and I was watching that while he was busy doing something in the basement at my house. I couldn't not watch it, and be impressed. To this day, he still blows my mind with his compositions and skill. I pushed this back a while because I wanted to get a lot of info to make this accurate  I'm doing the review of the 2012 UMe Remaster.

1. Don't Eat The Yellow Snow: I love the beginning of this song. With the wind sounds and the guitar. I love the guitar's tone throughout this entire album. I love the drums and the song is catchy. This song is very bass driven. The "Watch Out Where The Huskies Go" can't not get stuck in your head.
2. Nanook Rubs It: This is where the Fur Trapper who is "Strictly Commercial" comes and steps on his favorite baby seal. With a "Lead filled Snowshoe". There is some parts where the vocals go back and forth in the speakers. This song is more "funky"? than the last one. This is an awesome example of Frank's story telling. I love how he does this for some of his songs. There is a part where, if you listen, you can hear him say "here fido" which is a reference to Dirty Love.
3. St. Alfonzo's Pancake Breakfast: I was in awe of the percussion parts. I love how this songs intro is a sick percussion riff. This is the part right before my favorite part of the suite. the Rollo Interior is also awesome. "Hurt Me, hurt me" is something I reference a lot. Usually making fun of some of my friends. The drums in this song as so sick and I love the lead into the next track. 
4. Father O'Blivion: This is such a funky song. I love the way the guitar sounds and the "wah". You probably could do the "Funky Alphonzo" to this song. I couldn't get this song out of my head for the longest time. It's also a pretty fast track. The bass in here and the synthesizers. UGH!. And the Spanish march part or "Domonuss Vum Bizcum" (I know it's spelled wrong. But I tried phonetically) is fucking sick.
5. Cosmik Debris: For the longest time this, and Stink-Foot I didn't care for. I don't know why, but Stink-Foot grew on me. I was almost obsessed with this song. I love the violin in this song. Its sick. And I like the little motifs for the different parts. I think that's the right word. And I love this entire story. I would constantly reference this song, just about every chance I could. I would suggest listening to this song, and listening to this lyrics too. It's kind of a funny story about a drug dealer trying to sell Frank drugs and he says no and then pretty much outsmarts and tricks the drug dealer. "I had the sucker hypnotized".
6. Excentrifugal Forz: I didn't know what to think about this song. That was until I dissected it, so to say. Or maybe I should say I better listened to it. I also think this is a good way to start off side two. And it's kind of the prelude to Apostrophe. I like the part where it says "Pup Tentacle  and him re-reference in Cheepnis in the follow up Roxy & Elsewhere. This song kind of has a futuristic feeling to it. I don't know, maybe I'm just crazy, but that's how I feel.
7. Apostrophe ('): I could probably say that this is my least favorite track. I don't know why, but it's my least favorite. This is a jam between Frank, Jack Bruce and Jim Gordon. And I also guess Tony Duran does rhythm guitar on this song. This song is kind of cool, but It's probably my least favorite on the album. It is a pretty cool song though.
8. Uncle Remus: This was probably my first favorite song by Zappa. I love the piano in the song and I didn't even realize what it was about until I looked at the lyrics. It was written by Frank and George Duke. This song is actually pretty epic. This is probably the only real serious song on this album. Most of the songs on this are pretty humours and silly, but this song is kind of meaning ful. It brings up some of the topics that were brought up in Trouble Every Day off his June 1966 Freak Out! debut
9. Stink-Foot: I wasn't very huge on this song, until the 2012 UMe Remaster. I feel like I'm jumping on the band wagon, but this is a really cool song. This song was written after seeing a a foot deodorant commercial where the dog passes out from the guys feet. I don't really know if that would make you like this song or not. This song is super catchy though. The instruments only make it that much more catchy. I FUCKING love this! This is the songs where the term Conceptual Continuity is from. There are also other references in this song "Here Fido", "Imaginary Diseases", "Poodle Bites, Poodle Chews It". It's just a "sick" ending for an awesome album. Not to mention the solo in the song is also pretty sick too.

Overall I have no choice but to give this album a 10/10. This is one of the first albums that got me into Frank. If I'd have never heard this album then I'd be so fucked. This album has played such a part in everything. The 2012 UMe Remaster is how the Vinyl sounds, minus the ''Farts'' in the songs as mentioned above. Another thing is that this album isn't really one to get boring. Some albums have "drags" this one doesn't really have any. And I obviously can't do this album any justice, so just listen to it, the Vinyl or 2012 UMe Remaster version (that's the one that's on iTunes & Spotify).

The Best Band You Never Heard In Your Life - Frank Zappa

This is a live album by Frank Zappa. It was recorded during his 1988 tour. I've been listening to Zappa now for about 2 years. This was one of the first albums by Zappa that I had heard songs from. The first full album was either Freak Out! or We're Only In It For The Money. But this original album cover was actually changed because Frank didn't have the "rights" to the picture in the box. It's stupid, but it wasn't in the 2012 reissue either. But I don't want to get to into specifics because I want to listen to the album. I did do a review of some other releases by his, but yeah, I figured I was listening to this, why not do on for it.

1. Heavy Duty Judy: This is the beginning of the album, and it is an instrumental. I like this more than the first time I had heard it. This song was originally on 1981's Shut Up 'N Play Yer Guitar. The first record, not the one where they did all 3 together. I heard this version before I had heard the original.
2. Ring of Fire: This is a "Reggae Version" of Ring of Fire that Frank learned the day it was performed because Johnny Cash couldn't make it. I don't know if this is true, but I still like this song. This was one of the first songs by Zappa that I heard. This, Jesus Thinks Your A Jerk, Lonesome Cowboy Burt (Swaggart Version),  and some others. This version of the song, because of Frank's comments, make it kind of laid back. This entire tour was kind of like that. I think that Frank figured this was his last so he didn't really care and wanted to make it fun. I might be wrong, but that's kind of what I got out of the Boots and the Official recordings from this tour.
3. Cosmik Debris: This is a song that was originally on Apostrophe (') from March, 1974. That, along with the album before it, Over-Nite Sensation from September, 1973, were acclaimed as his two classic albums. You could argue that March 1979's Sheik Yerbouti is one, which I like that one more too, but from what I've gathered from people is they usually would say it's those two. Now that the history lesson is over this song is played like it is on the album, but its got the 1988 tour kind of vibe to it. Especially at my favorite part in the original part of the original right after it says "And I showed him how to do it right". I don't like this as much as the original though.
4. Find Her Finer: This song was originally on October, 1976's Zoot Allures album. It's also on the 2009 album Philly '76. It's on other albums too, but I'm picking those two because it's closest to the original album release. This version seems more complex. Kind of like how Vegetables is a less complex version of Vege-Tables.
5. Who Needs The Peace Corps?: They kind of played this song the same way, but they added in more horns. And also the reggae thing they did with some of the songs on the tour. This version isn't as, for last of better word, good as the 1968 WOIIFTM version. Maybe that's because I like that version more, but I don't know. It's not like he basically did a rewrite of the song. The song Lonesome Cowboy Burt is different on this album than on the original 1971 200 Motels albums.
6. I Left My Heart In San Francisco: I think it's kind of funny they when form Who Needs The Peace Corps? where it says "Ill go to Frisco" and then they transition into this song. This is only 36 seconds long, but it's still kind of cool.
7. Zomby Woof: They don't have that same like vocal sound as on the album but Ricky Lancelotti O.D.'d in 1980. This version of the song is a little different, especially in the solo. The strat that Frank played on the tour is probably part of the reason why, but there are also more of like a feeling of like space of improving in the song during the solo. Which that happens a lot on this, and like all of the Zappa tours.
8. Bolero: This is a cover version of a song. This isn't on, to my knowledge, any other album. Well at least that have been officially released. I do like this song, and I think it's kind of a cool sounding instrumental. I actually really like this, now that I've heard it in it's entirety, there is a kind of like Egyptian thing that I'm getting from it. I might be wrong, but that's my view.
9. Zoot Allures: This is off the 1976 album of the same name. I didn't care much for that album the first time I heard it, and I'm going to give it a re-listen  but not right now, I did recheck out the song that were on it, on this album. I haven't heard the original in about a year so I'm gonna wait to re-listen to it until I go in dept about this one. Well to date, this isn't really one of my favorite songs. I don't care much for really any of the versions on the song. I mean it isn't a bad song, but yeah.
10. Mr. Green Genes: This is off 1968's Uncle Meat album from October of that year. This is different in the way that there are more like a '88 tour vibe. More horns and bass and such. Like I could see him renaming this Mr. Green Genes (New Age Version) like he did for the Black Page on 1991's Make A Jazz Noise Here. This served as like a transition into the next 3 tracks. This is a little faster than the Uncle Meat version.
11. Florentine Pogen: This song, along with the next two, are off one of my favorite albums by the June 1975 album One Size Fits All. I didn't care for the album that much till hearing the 2012 UMe Remaster version which had the original analog recordings on it. Then I really liked it. This song has that '88 tour vibe to it. There are actually like bongos in the background that I heard. I don't like this as much as the 1975 album version, mainly because I like Napoleon's voice doing this song more than Ike's. But for this song, just like I think Johnny "Guitar" Watson's voice is awesome as Brown Moses and his thing that he does on Andy and San Ber'dino off OSFA.
12. Andy: This song was a song that I was timid to listen to. I don't know why, I'll explain more in the OSFA review I'll do sometime, but yeah. After hearing the original version of the song, for real, I went wow. I think that I George is better for this song than Ike again, but you can only do so much. Why can't Johnny at least be there. Even on this version, its such a jamming song. I want to just pick up my guitar and strum along with it.
13. Inca Roads: This song is one of my favorite songs ever. I don't think it's as good as the 1975 version or any of the 1974/1975 boots it's on. I actually like the bootleg I did a review of that was recorded on St. Patrick's Day 1988. But there is defiantly a like "New Age" taste to it. New Age isn't the right work, but it's more like an '88 tour version, instrumentation would be. The part where it goes "Guacamole Queen" is like slowed down a lot. That kind of takes away form that part, at least for me. And instead of saying "On Ruth" they said "On Bruce". Not a big ordeal, but I just wanted to mention it.
14. Sofa #1: This song, long story short it was originally performed in 1971 with Flo and Eddie (see Carnegie Hall or Beat the Boots I: Swiss Cheese/Fire). Then it was reword, into two versions, for 1975's OSFA. Then it was worked for a band with horns and such, the instrumental version, then it was performed on this, pretty much the same way as on Zappa in New York. 

This is a two disc album, the second disc was mainly cover versions of songs from that tour, minus 4 or 5 of the 14 on that track too. In between the two discs I re-listened and restudied what I felt I needed to know for the review.

1. Purple Haze: This isn't really anything like the Jimi Hendrix version of the song. On any album wither it be a live or studio album. I actually don't care for this version, but you could tell it wasn't that serious of a performance of the song. It seems more like industrial. It kind of sounds like a cover Devo would do.
2. Sunshine of Your Love: This song flowed from the last. Its that still kind of Devo sound. Ike sounds like he does on Thing-Fish. Until the chorus. The guy who does the Johnny Cash impression then sings. It's actually kind of funny that Ike calls him the Man in Black. It's like a reference to Ring of Fire song they did earlier. I did that in-case anyone didn't know what that meant.
3. Let's Move to Cleveland: I like this song. I'm not very familiar with it, but I like the way it sounds.
4. When Irish Eyes Are Smiling: These next two tracks are from the 1988 St. Patrick's Day show that I did a review of.
5. "Godfather Part II" Theme: This reminds me a ton of James Bond. But yeah.
6. A Few Moments With Brother A. West: This is just some guy talking. I didn't feel like looking to deep into it. You will be able to tell what he's talking about if you listen to the track. I do think this is a good intro  though to Torture Never Stops.
7. The Torture Never Stops, Pt. 1: This "part" is almost 5 1/2 minutes long. The "2nd part" is over 10 minutes. He plays it like he usually plays it, but there is the '88 tour little things. It actually is probably closest to the ZINY version. There is a part where it is speed up where there say the lyrics over other song melodies. A list of those songs are listed at here.
8. Theme from "Bonanza": Whatever this is that theme. It's like a cowboy intro to Lonsome Cowboy Burt.
9. Lonesome Cowboy Burt (Swaggart Version): This was one of the first Zappa songs I have ever heard. I really liked this song. I don't like it as much as I used to, but I still think it's alright. It's about, in this version, Jim Bakker. He is also talked about in the other "Swaggart Versions" of songs on this album, and Jesus Thinks Your A Jerk off 1988's Broadway The Hard Way. Which I did a review of.
10. The Torture Never Stops, Pt. 2: This is just a solo. It's a solo. What else can I really say about it.
11. More Trouble Every Day (Swaggart Version): This version of this song is a on that is defiantly from this tour. It has that kind of ''reggae'' thing, and also it talks about "Jimmy Swaggart".
12. Penguin in Bondage (Swaggart Version): This is one of my favorite songs. But I'm not huge on this version of the song.  After this song I only have 20 minutes left. So I'm kind of glad for that.
13. The Eric Dolphy Memorial Barbecue: I haven't heard the original 1970 Weasel Ripped My Flesh version in a very long time. So before I heard this one I listened to that one. This is though, a song I could see Eric Dolphy playing.
14. Stairway to Heaven: This isn't my favorite version of the song. The beginning is like Reggae arpeggios, if that makes any sense. I'd rather listen to that Bootleg version from St. Patty's Day. This is a great way to end an album though. Especially one that was almost two hours long. This has the silly sounds in it, but the solo is horns playing the solo intro. Some live version had an improved solo by Frank, but this one used the horn version. Frank took 3 different live performances, as he did for a lot of his live albums, and cut them up to keep the ''good parts'' and got rid of the ''bad'' and combine the ''good parts'' he liked to get the track that we have here, and other ones too. He did that with all, but one, guitar solo for the album Joe's Garage.

Overall I have to give this a 8/10. I don't know why I really keep reviewing the '88 tour, but I still have some more listening to do. I do like some of these songs than I did back a year ago. Maybe in a year I'll love this album. But for right now, I'm not huge on it. It's a pretty long one too.

Broadway the Hard Way - Frank Zappa

This live album has one of the first Frank Zappa songs that I heard. Yes it's Jesus Thinks Your A Jerk. That is one of my favorite Zappa songs ever. This album has it's memories for me, even thought there is disapointment. I was looking forward to this album being amazing based off Why Don't You Like Me?, Jesus Thinks Your A Jerk, and Murdered By Numbers, I was wrong, kind of. At least the first time. I don't exactly know why, but even thought I know how I feel about this album, this is still a classic in my head. This was originally released on vinyl via mail order. When it was issued on CD there was bonus tracks not on the vinyl.

1. Elvis Has Just Left The Building: This song starts ok. I don't think that it's anything mind blowing, but I think that it's ok. I think that this is an interesting song. I think it's nothing that is that crazy. I mean, It isn't as bad the second time through. I think that this is a pretty decent song
2. Planet of the Baritone Women: This song has this type of like Egyptian feeling to it. I like this more than the last song, but I don't think that it's amazing. I do think the horns do sound pretty cool though. I don't like how Frank stopped the song to say who was singing. I mean it's what he wants, but that kind of bugs me about the '88 Tour. The fact that it was a joke, more so than before. 
3. Any Kind Of Pain: This song, at least the beginning, kind of reminds me of like a Kenny G song. And not to be offensive, but Kenny's songs are very queer. By that I mean that it's like white jazz. After that thought it's kind of ok. Like the parts where he's not singing is where it reminds me of Kenny. I do like the pre-chorus though. I do like the distortion on the solo in this song. It's not terrible, but I don't like the sax in the song. But it's nothing that you can't get over after 2 or 3 listens.
4. Dickie's Such An Asshole (The San Clemente Magnetic Deviation): I am not quite sure if I like this version, or You Can't Do That On Stage Anymore, Vol. 3 version more. I think they are both Ok, but I'm not quite sure.
5. When the Lie's So Big: I like this song about as much as I like the last. I do enjoy it, but I'm not insane about it.
6. Rhymin' Man: I like this song, but they also play about a dozen different melodies in the song. But I like the guys voice. He's the one who did the Ring of Fire cover on 1991's Best Band You Never Heard In Your Life. There is a part where they slid the keys and is sounds like a xylophone kinda, I really like that sound. They also use My Sharona in this song.
7. Promiscuous: I think it's hilarious that this is like a hip-hop song. I think this is better than Run DMC and any otha rappa outt there. No but seriously, this song is pretty funny. I feel like this reminds me of Lazy Scranton from The Office.
8. The Untouchables: I do like this song. I think it kind of sound like a Spy type song. I could kind of see the beginning of the song being in James Bond. I do know that there is part of the Hawaii Five-0 theme song, but I could still see this being in James Bond. This is one of my favorites song. I like Ike's voice in there too. I guess this is a cover.
9. Why Don't You Like Me?: Tell Me You Love Me is such a fun song to probably play, espically with this variation. I got into this version before I heard both the 1970 Chunga's Revenge album version or the other live version off Tinsel Town Rebellion. I think it's hilarious that he's making fun of Michael. The lyrics are also pretty funny. My mom doesn't laugh at Michael Jackson jokes, but when she heard this, she laughed. This is a fun song that I could see being like a intro to Frank if someone is stubborn about their music.
10. Bacon Fat:  I'm not huge on it
11. Stolen Moments: This is an instrumental song. I don't really care for this song either. It does flow into the next song, but I don't find it that amazing. It is kind of cool
12. Murdered By Numbers: I like the fact that Frank had Sting comeout and play this song. I much more like The Police's version off 1983's Synchronicity. It's not that I don't like this song, but I like the other version more. 
13. Jezebel Boy: I also think that this song is ok. I'm not huge on this song either, but what ever.
14. Outside Now: I don't like this version as much as the Joe's Garage Act: II & III version. I do think that this is still good, but I don't quite like it as much. I think I still need to listen to the version from 1988's Guitar. I also the 1991's You Can't Do That On Stage Anymore, Vol. 4 (rec. 1984) and 1984's Perfect Stranger versions of the song. But I don't think this is as good as the original album version.
15. Hot-Plate Heaven at the Green Hotel: I think that the 1986's Does Humor Belong In Music?, recorded in '84, isn't that different from this 1988's Broadway The Hard Way.
16. What Kind Of Girl?: I like this version. I have to laugh that they reference Jim. And I like that they quote Strawberry Fields Forever in this song. I like the flow into the next song, which is pretty much written to be about Jim. I like the version on Beat The Boots II: Tengo Na Minchia Tanta, which was recorded November 1970. I also like the version on Fillmore East, June 1971 too. I do think it's intresting on the Philly '76 album version because Lady Bianca is a woman and she is the prostitute in the song. But this is a song that is an example of how he kind redid songs "classics" for this '88 Tours.
17. Jesus Thinks Your A Jerk: Though I am a Christian I still love and respect Frank's views. This song reminds me of sophomore year waiting to go and see my brother do swim meet. I particularly remember the one where I was listening to the Broadway the Hard Way version. For some reason I had a shit load of confidence and actually said something to the "hottest" girl I'd ever seen at school. She said two words. I know what but I don't want to say because it is embarrassing. But this song is so fricken catchy. The more I listened to it the more I understood the lyrics. It is an awesome song. overall I love this song and listen to it like crazy. The song reminds me of the album cover and the album cover reminds me of that evening, so to say. It sucks there is only 2 versions of the song, including a bootleg version, of the song. It is very catchy though, and will probably always be one of my favorite Zappa songs.

Overall I have to give this a 7.6/10. The reason I did this is because only two songs on this album that were on other albums. I am not a huge fan off the '88 Tour band that Frank had. For that reason I am not crazy about any of these live albums. I don't hate them, but they are defiantly not my favorite Zappa stuff. I kind of like that this album has a somewhat concept. By that each song has a joke in it and it is kind of continued in all the songs. Kind of like a loose concept album, in a way. First listen this would have gotten like a 4 or 5, but now it's got a 7. But also realize that I've listened to a shit ton of concert boots from the '88 Shows, so that might have also helped. I did a review of one, St. Patrick's Day 1988