Frank Zappa
Apostrophe (')

THE REVIEW

"Apostrophe ('") was released in 1974, and it features a basic cover: a photo of Uncle Frank, with the author's and album's name written on it. Personally, I find it amusing, both for the expression on our guy's face (even though in "You are what you is" it's something else), and for my personal interpretation of his fly under the mustache, which could be the apostrophe... (Yes, I'm crazy).

The album itself is rather short (a little over half an hour), but the content is well-concentrated and full of excellent points.

It starts with "Don't eat the yellow snow" (Zappa's first track to enter the charts) and "Nanook Rubs It", two consecutive tracks inspired by a dream Zappa had one night. He dreamed of being an Eskimo named Nanook: suddenly, from the entrance of his igloo, a fur trapper appeared, attacking a small seal. In response, Nanook rubbed some yellow snow (that is, snow peed on by huskies) into the man's eyes, blinding him.

The story continues until the track Cosmik Debris (passing first through St. Alfonzo's Pancake Breakfast and Father O'blivion), where the album completely changes face. And right after Excentrifugal forz, we arrive at the title track, the most interesting of the LP. In this track, as in two or three others before it, we encounter superb guitar solos, and guest stars, specifically the bassist and drummer of Cream (Jack Bruce and Jim Gordon). The last two tracks are Uncle Remus (with a solo on a relaxing background and choruses) and Stink Foot (the longest track - 6:32).

With a little attention, you'll be able to find references to "The Grand Wazoo" and "Weasels ripped my flesh". The possible connection with the previous album, "Over-nite sensation", is evident (in my opinion a bit more beautiful, but these guitar solos are unbeatable!).

In essence, an excellent (and bizarre) addition to Zappa's collection.

Rating 4/4 and a half.