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steveburnhamuk

Frank Zappa – The Grand Wazoo (1972)





The second purchase from a Sunday market in Ghent, for a couple of euros. I've spoken before about my Zappa obsession in my 30s, and how 'awkward' much of it sounds as an older man, but there's still plenty to get through.






Zappa made this album in 1972, while recovering from injuries to his back, leg, and neck after being attacked by a fan while on stage at the London Rainbow. It has very much a 'big band' feel, and is mostly instruments, apart from some vocals on For Calvin


The Grand Wazoo is the longest piece, entirely instrumental, and feels very much like the overture to something bigger as the full big band jump from style to style with a main theme pushing through, as well as room for a couple of guitar solos. For Calvin has some discordant vocals from guests (Zappa was unable to sing due to a crushed larynx in the attack), and some noodling brass which I'd suggest the players enjoyed more than the listener. Cletus Awreetus-Awrightus is an easier listen, and is much shorter, but not much sticks, but Eat That Question is far more of a rock instrumental, and final track Blessed Relief is a straight gentle jazz number, a very easy listen.


This isn't going to go down as one of Zappa's finest moments, but neither is it one of his turkeys. It's an interesting diversion from much of his work immediately before and after, and as such is worth a listen.



3* - an interesting listen, without really making a big impression

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