Frank Zappa
The Grand Wazoo

THE REVIEW

Zappa is one of the greatest musical geniuses of the 20th century.

Francesco Zappa was not crazy, as many think.
Francesco Zappa had two enormous mustaches, only partially covering his grin.
Francesco Zappa did not take drugs.
Francesco Zappa smoked only cigarettes, simply saying: "for me, THIS IS FOOD!"
Francesco Zappa "teneva 'na minchia tanta".
Francesco Zappa even had crabs occasionally, and this was the only concern of the groupies.
Francesco Zappa is there smiling above my bed, hung on the wall.
Francesco Zappa played the guitar, but he made music using almost all existing and non-existing instruments, probably even the mother-of-pearl brush for cross-eyed dogs, greatly advancing the concept of "total music".

One fine day, after his freak trilogy, "Hot Rats," and some other great records, he made this "The Grand Wazoo," which is not only one of his most beautiful albums, but perhaps the one with the most cohesive blend of musical genres: jazz-fusion (in his way), a bit of nonsense ("Cletus Awreetus Awrightus"), rock, and even a bit of funk ("The Grand Wazoo"). All with the usual ensemble of great musicians, including Aynsley Dunbar on drums, and all the horns.

Absolutely magnificent the title track, with the master's typical tempo changes; peculiar madness in "For Calvin"; fantastic voices, very "Zappa-like," in "Cletus Awreetus Awrightus"; masterful keyboards in "Eat That Question." The album closes with a gem, "Blessed Relief," which brings back a very suggestive tranquility, as if after everything that happened, after all the upheavals, the rivers of notes and color and energy (also check out the splendid cover), one can close with oneself, more relaxed, recharged, and satisfied to have taken this beautiful journey with Francesco. IMMENSE... Thank you truly Frank, thank you for everything...