Frank Zappa — Camarillo Brillo
Album: Overnight SensationAvg rating:
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Total ratings: 1088
Length: 3:53
Plays (last 30 days): 2
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She had that Camarillo brillo
Flamin' out along her head,
I mean her Mendocino bean-o
By where some bugs had made it red
She ruled the Toads of the Short Forest
And every newt in Idaho
And every cricket who had chorused
By the bush in Buffalo
She said she was a Magic Mama
And she could throw a mean Tarot
And carried on without a comma
That she was someone I should know
She had a snake for a pet
And an amulet
And she was breeding a dwarf
But she wasn't done yet
She had gray-green skin
A doll with a pin
I told her she was alright
But I couldn't come in
(I couldn't come in right then...)
And so she wandered through the doorway
Just like a shadow from the tomb
She said her stereo was four-way
And I'd just love it in her room
Well, I was born to have adventure
So I just followed up the steps
Right past her fuming incense stencher
To where she hung her castanets
She stripped away her rancid poncho
And laid out naked by the door
We did it till we were un-concho
And it was useless any more
She had a snake for a pet
And an amulet
And she was breeding a dwarf
But she wasn't done yet
She had gray-green skin
A doll with a pin
I told her she was alright
But I couldn't come in
(actually, I was very busy then)
And so she wandered through the doorway
Just like a shadow from the tomb
She said her stereo was four-way
And I'd just love it in her room
Well, I was born to have adventure
So I just followed up the steps
Right past her fuming incense stencher
To where she hung her castanets
She said she was a Magic Mama
And she could throw a mean Tarot
And carried on without a comma
That she was someone I should know
(Is that a real poncho, I mean
Is that a Mexican poncho or is that a Sears poncho?
Hmmm... no fooling...)
Flamin' out along her head,
I mean her Mendocino bean-o
By where some bugs had made it red
She ruled the Toads of the Short Forest
And every newt in Idaho
And every cricket who had chorused
By the bush in Buffalo
She said she was a Magic Mama
And she could throw a mean Tarot
And carried on without a comma
That she was someone I should know
She had a snake for a pet
And an amulet
And she was breeding a dwarf
But she wasn't done yet
She had gray-green skin
A doll with a pin
I told her she was alright
But I couldn't come in
(I couldn't come in right then...)
And so she wandered through the doorway
Just like a shadow from the tomb
She said her stereo was four-way
And I'd just love it in her room
Well, I was born to have adventure
So I just followed up the steps
Right past her fuming incense stencher
To where she hung her castanets
She stripped away her rancid poncho
And laid out naked by the door
We did it till we were un-concho
And it was useless any more
She had a snake for a pet
And an amulet
And she was breeding a dwarf
But she wasn't done yet
She had gray-green skin
A doll with a pin
I told her she was alright
But I couldn't come in
(actually, I was very busy then)
And so she wandered through the doorway
Just like a shadow from the tomb
She said her stereo was four-way
And I'd just love it in her room
Well, I was born to have adventure
So I just followed up the steps
Right past her fuming incense stencher
To where she hung her castanets
She said she was a Magic Mama
And she could throw a mean Tarot
And carried on without a comma
That she was someone I should know
(Is that a real poncho, I mean
Is that a Mexican poncho or is that a Sears poncho?
Hmmm... no fooling...)
Comments (288)add comment
Yes. That's right.
KeithBrofsky wrote:
In Europe I only heard Zappa on the radio outside of the UK, such as Germany, where perhaps some slang that might sound offensive in UK slipped under the radar. Or corporate and state radio in most countries decided early on they couldn't understand/ cope with Zappa
I get the loyal following, and yes his writing was unlike any other. But here's the thing... the tunes weren't that compelling or memorable, which is probably why I they never made it to Top 40. They're more like random melodies accompanying poetry. He was in a way, rapping... way ahead of his time for sure. But do the songs stick with me? Not so much. Sorry fans. Just my 2¢. Don't hate me.
In Europe I only heard Zappa on the radio outside of the UK, such as Germany, where perhaps some slang that might sound offensive in UK slipped under the radar. Or corporate and state radio in most countries decided early on they couldn't understand/ cope with Zappa
"And she was breeding a dwarf" ....only Zappa would go there, no boundaries, the vulgar hilarious humour and the music and musicianship. Love Zappa
sqqqrly wrote:
I'd settle for Willy the Pimp.
Catholic Girls next please....
I'd settle for Willy the Pimp.
Who else could rhyme poncho with un-concho..!!
kwacka wrote:
Well, okay, but the last time I tried it at work they told me not to do that again.
Zappa really created some outlandish lyrics, but he really was a musician's musician. Respect.
Sitting in a room with a couple of friends in 1973, listening to this album on a 14-track stereo system (really just a crappy mono player plugged into a light socket, but it's amazing the effect illegal chemicals* can have on the auditory receptors).
Amazing then, amazing now.
Thanks RP.
* Don't try this at home
Amazing then, amazing now.
Thanks RP.
* Don't try this at home
Well, okay, but the last time I tried it at work they told me not to do that again.
Zappa really created some outlandish lyrics, but he really was a musician's musician. Respect.
I get the loyal following, and yes his writing was unlike any other. But here's the thing... the tunes weren't that compelling or memorable, which is probably why I they never made it to Top 40. They're more like random melodies accompanying poetry. He was in a way, rapping... way ahead of his time for sure. But do the songs stick with me? Not so much. Sorry fans. Just my 2¢. Don't hate me.
Yesssssssssss. 
Sitting in a room with a couple of friends in 1973, listening to this album on a 14-track stereo system (really just a crappy mono player plugged into a light socket, but it's amazing the effect illegal chemicals* can have on the auditory receptors).
Amazing then, amazing now.
Thanks RP.
* Don't try this at home
Amazing then, amazing now.
Thanks RP.
* Don't try this at home
This album -- in its entirety -- shows the talent Mr Zappa wielded. Full of catchy melodies and sizzling guitar solos, it could have generated Top 40 hits if the absurd lyrics had been carefully scrubbed for radio.
Those of us with wider tastes in the 1970s were blessed to hear this when it was fresh.
Is that a real poncho? I mean, is that a Mexican poncho or is that a Sears poncho?
Those of us with wider tastes in the 1970s were blessed to hear this when it was fresh.
Is that a real poncho? I mean, is that a Mexican poncho or is that a Sears poncho?
New documentary on Zappa
‘Zappa’ Review: Alex Winter’s Documentary Hauntingly Captures the Skewed Passion of Frank Zappa, a One-of-a-Kind Rock Legend
‘Zappa’ Review: Alex Winter’s Documentary Hauntingly Captures the Skewed Passion of Frank Zappa, a One-of-a-Kind Rock Legend
No song on RP, and I think anywhere else, has more catchy and entertaining lyrics! Hilarious dark Bill Burroughs humor! Candidate cousin, here on RP: Nature Boy, by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds.
msymmes wrote:
Interesting !
For those of us down SoCal it's where the fires have been burning the last couple days. Around here it's rarely pronounced as Zappa does... the double ll's are silent. And the occupants are now students. There are quite a few songs that reference the place...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camarillo_State_Mental_Hospital
Interesting !
For those of us down SoCal it's where the fires have been burning the last couple days. Around here it's rarely pronounced as Zappa does... the double ll's are silent. And the occupants are now students. There are quite a few songs that reference the place...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camarillo_State_Mental_Hospital
dirtbagpook wrote:
Hazy nights for sure!
Zappa live was always a good time also...more panties and bras would be thrown on stage than you could find in your local Victoria Secrets
So much Frank to listen to — some of it commercial, some of it way out there. All fantastic in their own way. Many hazy nites listening to Overnight Sensation, Hot Rats, Just Another Band from LA, etc. Ahh, nostalgia! 
Hazy nights for sure!
Zappa live was always a good time also...more panties and bras would be thrown on stage than you could find in your local Victoria Secrets
dirtbagpook wrote:
Just another band from L.A that was a classic
So much Frank to listen to — some of it commercial, some of it way out there. All fantastic in their own way. Many hazy nites listening to Overnight Sensation, Hot Rats, Just Another Band from LA, etc. Ahh, nostalgia!
Just another band from L.A that was a classic
Catholic Girls next please....
So much Frank to listen to — some of it commercial, some of it way out there. All fantastic in their own way. Many hazy nites listening to Overnight Sensation, Hot Rats, Just Another Band from LA, etc. Ahh, nostalgia!
YES!!!!!!!!!!!! MORE ZAPPA PLEASE
Hell Ya!!!
wow! years of listening to RP and first time I've heard Zappa. Love it, so unique and fun............so many more Zappa tracks that should be shared on RP!!!!!! Happy !!!!!
!!!!!more FZ please!!! first I've heard here...
Nobody but nobody wrote lyrics like FZ's.
Anybody know where I can find a pair of zircon encrusted tweezers?
Not at Sears, surely....
Not at Sears, surely....
funkyalfonso wrote:
Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. RP's Zappa library is quite thin, and I never hear any of it get played (until now). What's the deal?
Yes, finally a FZ number. The first I've heard on RP and it's been a long wait. MORE PLEASE BILL.
Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. RP's Zappa library is quite thin, and I never hear any of it get played (until now). What's the deal?
Yes, finally a FZ number. The first I've heard on RP and it's been a long wait. MORE PLEASE BILL.
Nice! Would also love to hear "St. Alfonso's Pancake Breakfast"
10 +++++++++++++++++++
IMMORTAL!
IMMORTAL!
Super!
BillG wrote:
Thanks! Based on this info and on more careful listening, I upped my rating a couple points.
Thanks! Based on this info and on more careful listening, I upped my rating a couple points.
I have never gotten into Zappa but I need to. He was a musical genius....
Sofa king good ...
ricmo wrote:
Nearly 40 years later this still sounds newer and fresher than most everything else out there! Great! Play more FZ!
romeotuma wrote:
I'll dance to this...
Definitely one of Zappa's better dancing tunes.
I'll dance to this...
Definitely one of Zappa's better dancing tunes.
been listening to RP for several months and this is the first Zappa song I've heard...he's fun to have in the mix once in a while
WonderLizard wrote:
That's a funny story. I saw Mehta conduct the NY Philharmonic a few times. He seemed like he had a good sense of humor. At the free "park concerts" they used to have in the different boroughs, he used to joke around a bit between musical pieces, one time, at the expense of Mayor Koch.
Zappa was doing some work with the LA Philharmonic in the '70s when the orchestra was led by Zubin Mehta. They're rehearsing one of Zappa's compositions, and as Mehta's counting down the intro, Zappa blurts out, "Hit it, Zubin!" The band cracks up, and Mehta turns to Zappa and scolds him gently but firmly that the LAP is his band, and Zappa will behave. He did.
That's a funny story. I saw Mehta conduct the NY Philharmonic a few times. He seemed like he had a good sense of humor. At the free "park concerts" they used to have in the different boroughs, he used to joke around a bit between musical pieces, one time, at the expense of Mayor Koch.
Fantastic album, Frank was one-of-a-kind
Nearly 40 years later this still sounds newer and fresher than most everything else out there! Great! Play more FZ!
I never doubt Frank's authenticity. Hearing his music is like seeing the sun finally come out on a rainy day.
...genius
Zappa has a huge library of music. Absolutely ginormous. And virtually every song is at least good, and most great. And yet, RP has played only eight Zappa songs, off only three albums? C'mon Bill, you can do better than that.
Best time of the Zappa chef-d'oeuvre in those years! Saw him 6 times and.... so wowwww Sir Zappa! 
music is the best!
Amazing lyrics and an incredibly tight band! An acquaintance of mine in college way back when played Zappa all the time, I couldn't stand the shit, but now I see why Bernie was a Mothers freak. You win, Bernie, he was, is a genius!
Wonderful!
Lrobby99 wrote:
We need to hear more of Jean-Luc on RP!
Jean-Luc Ponty!
We need to hear more of Jean-Luc on RP!
Saw Dweezil Zappa's band (Zappa Plays Zappa) this summer. Blew the place away... they were soooo good.
Zappa was doing some work with the LA Philharmonic in the '70s when the orchestra was led by Zubin Mehta. They're rehearsing one of Zappa's compositions, and as Mehta's counting down the intro, Zappa blurts out, "Hit it, Zubin!" The band cracks up, and Mehta turns to Zappa and scolds him gently but firmly that the LAP is his band, and Zappa will behave. He did.
Wow! Always a trip to hear Frank anytime, anywhere! When I was a radio DJ at the CU Boulder station, if I wanted to play Frank, I had to read a lengthy disclaimer. So I'd read it once and then play a whole slew of it! Titties & Beer, Wet T-Shirt Nite, Yellow Snow; oh, how I MISS FRANK! The world could use another one like him to liven and lighten things up about now! Thanks RP for playing this!
After discussing Zappa with my brother and brother-in-law (both in their mid to late 50s) I have come to the conclusion that he is one of those artists you either get, or you don't.
All power to you, Zappa fans.
*mute*
All power to you, Zappa fans.
*mute*
I am actually not a big Zappa fan, most of his songs are just a little too complex for easy listening enjoyment. Not this one though!
frank.
that is all.
that is all.
this song is for dancing with the women of your dreams, drinking wine and smoke cigarettes. I´m getting lucky when i listen to it
1wolfy wrote:
poor you
poor
poor you
ScottishWillie wrote:
I suggest Freak Out with The Mothers of Invention. Or - We're Only In It For The Money with The Mothers. Great cover take on Sgt. Pepper's.
I’m not that familiar with Frank’s music. I think part of the reasons I’ve never bought any of stuff is because I have listed to the opinions of others who say it’s to wacky and bazaar to be enjoyable. However every time I hear I a new song (often on this station) I’m surprised just how musical and enjoyable much of his stuff is. A case in point is the duet with his daughter ‘Valley Girl’ which I have only just discovered. Anyone recommend an album to enter the world of Frank Zappa with?
I suggest Freak Out with The Mothers of Invention. Or - We're Only In It For The Money with The Mothers. Great cover take on Sgt. Pepper's.
unclehud wrote:
Waka-Jawaka/Hot Rats, Grand Wazoo, Hot Rats, are some of the more "orchestral" works that have some remarkably well done compositions that are full of interesting horn sections. I forgot for years how good some of his work was and have rediscovered some of it now that used CDs are cheap and plentiful.
You know, Zappa could play, orchestrate, write great lyrics, and testify before Congressional committees. Miss him, but snippets from this and Shiek Yerbouti always bring on the big grin. "Is that a real poncho, or a Sears poncho?"
You hear those horns? I mean, really!
You hear those horns? I mean, really!
Waka-Jawaka/Hot Rats, Grand Wazoo, Hot Rats, are some of the more "orchestral" works that have some remarkably well done compositions that are full of interesting horn sections. I forgot for years how good some of his work was and have rediscovered some of it now that used CDs are cheap and plentiful.
poor
GeneP59 wrote:
"We did it 'til we were unconcho."
Is that a real Mexican poncho, or a Sears poncho? 
You've got to love Frank and his wit with words.
You've got to love Frank and his wit with words.
"We did it 'til we were unconcho."
Sounds kind of like a Mad Libs.
Jean-Luc Ponty!
hmmm, no fooling . . . wish we could hear more FZ at RP?!?!?
amneezra kadabra!
Is that a real Mexican poncho, or a Sears poncho?
You've got to love Frank and his whit with words.
You've got to love Frank and his whit with words.
You know, Zappa could play, orchestrate, write great lyrics, and testify before Congressional committees. Miss him, but snippets from this and Shiek Yerbouti always bring on the big grin. "Is that a real poncho, or a Sears poncho?"
You hear those horns? I mean, really!
You hear those horns? I mean, really!
Frank and Radiohead seem to be the most polarizing acts played here. I love them both - the wierder the better. Gotta be able to hit the curve ball.
ScottishWillie wrote:
This one. Start on side 2 with Dinah Moe Hum. you won't be sorry.The whole album kills.
I’m not that familiar with Frank’s music. I think part of the reasons I’ve never bought any of stuff is because I have listed to the opinions of others who say it’s to wacky and bazaar to be enjoyable. However every time I hear I a new song (often on this station) I’m surprised just how musical and enjoyable much of his stuff is. A case in point is the duet with his daughter ‘Valley Girl’ which I have only just discovered. Anyone recommend an album to enter the world of Frank Zappa with?
This one. Start on side 2 with Dinah Moe Hum. you won't be sorry.The whole album kills.
ScottishWillie wrote:
For me, Shiek Yerbouti.
I’m not that familiar with Frank’s music. I think part of the reasons I’ve never bought any of stuff is because I have listed to the opinions of others who say it’s to wacky and bazaar to be enjoyable. However every time I hear I a new song (often on this station) I’m surprised just how musical and enjoyable much of his stuff is. A case in point is the duet with his daughter ‘Valley Girl’ which I have only just discovered. Anyone recommend an album to enter the world of Frank Zappa with?
For me, Shiek Yerbouti.
ScottishWillie wrote:
this one of course, Joe's Garage is how i got interested
I’m not that familiar with Frank’s music. I think part of the reasons I’ve never bought any of stuff is because I have listed to the opinions of others who say it’s to wacky and bazaar to be enjoyable. However every time I hear I a new song (often on this station) I’m surprised just how musical and enjoyable much of his stuff is. A case in point is the duet with his daughter ‘Valley Girl’ which I have only just discovered. Anyone recommend an album to enter the world of Frank Zappa with?
this one of course, Joe's Garage is how i got interested
Over rated
I’m not that familiar with Frank’s music. I think part of the reasons I’ve never bought any of stuff is because I have listed to the opinions of others who say it’s to wacky and bazaar to be enjoyable. However every time I hear I a new song (often on this station) I’m surprised just how musical and enjoyable much of his stuff is. A case in point is the duet with his daughter ‘Valley Girl’ which I have only just discovered. Anyone recommend an album to enter the world of Frank Zappa with?
djmeatwad wrote:
I don't know what you're talking about here, unclelonghair. Yes, we play a LOT of Frank Zappa - but at no point have I heard any of our live staff apologize for playing it, EVER. And we aren't about to start.
DJ Meatwad
Owner/Webmaster, Head Case Radio
How could you not like Frank Zappa???
I don't know what you're talking about here, unclelonghair. Yes, we play a LOT of Frank Zappa - but at no point have I heard any of our live staff apologize for playing it, EVER. And we aren't about to start.
DJ Meatwad
Owner/Webmaster, Head Case Radio
How could you not like Frank Zappa???
Yea most Zappa is a little too weird and long winded for me (much like the Dead) though I appreciate the musical skill and complexity of the arrangements (unlike the Dead). However, this is one of his more pleasing songs to the ear. Like this.
). However, this is one of his more pleasing songs to the ear. Like this. unclelonghair wrote:
I don't know what you're talking about here, unclelonghair. Yes, we play a LOT of Frank Zappa - but at no point have I heard any of our live staff apologize for playing it, EVER. And we aren't about to start.
DJ Meatwad
Owner/Webmaster, Head Case Radio
Another internet radio station (Head Case Radio) plays a lot of Zappa, and the DJ's often apologize to the audience before AND after a spate of Zappa songs, because they know that that it's like some kind of weird, slimy food — disgusting to most people but essential to a small, hardcore minority. I guess in this case I'm in the majority.
I don't know what you're talking about here, unclelonghair. Yes, we play a LOT of Frank Zappa - but at no point have I heard any of our live staff apologize for playing it, EVER. And we aren't about to start.
DJ Meatwad
Owner/Webmaster, Head Case Radio
There's room in my paradise for a bit of Zappa.
Frank wrote some great music, like this song. As for his less "accessible" stuff...I dont care how complicated or hard it is to play, if it doesn't sound good then it aint good tunes!
Yes!!! Some Uncle Frank for breakfast! Thanks!
And come on folks....it's fine if he's not your cup of tea but I'va always said: one must have a sense of humor to get Mr. Zappa's tongue in cheek lyrics.
And come on folks....it's fine if he's not your cup of tea but I'va always said: one must have a sense of humor to get Mr. Zappa's tongue in cheek lyrics.
SparkyMarky wrote:
Pearls before swine.
unclelonghair wrote:
FWIW I agree. For me Zappa is like the Grateful Dead. Die hard fans who swear it's the greatest, but the music isn't really that good, and gets irritating after a while. Or you could say that it only sounds good if you're pretty stoned.
A lot of Zappa music comes dangerously close to a toddler playing with an electric piano with a tape deck running. I have never really understood the appeal. Without the weird stream of consciousness lyrics there would be no reason to listen.
Ok Uncle longhair and JohnJConn. I heistitate to give your comments validity by replying. But amongst the reasons Frank was a great was the orchestral scope of some of his rockband work, which brought together some really great guitar work into some monumental rock songs - especially so in his live work. Now, I accept that not every band is everyone's cup of tea, but to anyone who likes complex rock songs Frank could do that, the way he blended in a lot of percussion and voices with his driving guitar. Look at 'Willie the Pimp (with excellent Beefheart vocals), or Inca roads. His so-called 'silly lyrics' were very often what we Brits call irony - something that large swathes of the USA seems to have long forgotten about
FWIW I agree. For me Zappa is like the Grateful Dead. Die hard fans who swear it's the greatest, but the music isn't really that good, and gets irritating after a while. Or you could say that it only sounds good if you're pretty stoned.
A lot of Zappa music comes dangerously close to a toddler playing with an electric piano with a tape deck running. I have never really understood the appeal. Without the weird stream of consciousness lyrics there would be no reason to listen.
Pearls before swine.
unclelonghair wrote:
Well the 7 minute guitar solos are a good example of something in which there is surely some genius but it is not my cup of tea. Maybe it is just music for musicians, and I can understand how some people would love it and others (including me) wouldn't "get" it. It is surely interesting for anyone experimenting with cross-genre epic guitar or electronica solos.
What turns me off though is the antiseptic, art-for-art's-sake or weirdness-for-weirdness-sake character of so much of his music. It never seems to be "about" anything, besides random satirical sound bites. He's got, what, 60-70 albums, almost all self-produced, and most of it even his fans admit is unlistenable. It's mostly an exercise in artistic masturbation.
Another internet radio station (Head Case Radio) plays a lot of Zappa, and the DJ's often apologize to the audience before AND after a spate of Zappa songs, because they know that that it's like some kind of weird, slimy food — disgusting to most people but essential to a small, hardcore minority. I guess in this case I'm in the majority.
Yeah...you're right up to a point. Some of his stuff isn't that accessible. And yet look at the doo wop stuff he did with the Mothers? Completely the opposite. Also consider the times much of his stuff was written...it was music of its time, in that many people were being massively experimental and he was one of them, trying to push the boundaries. I don't like all FZ I admit. But I find melody and rhythm in a lot of his songs, I love some of the epic guitar solo compositions. And I realise many don't! As for his lyrics? Well he took the piss out of lots of people he considered phonies and posers. Ironic as I suspect that's what you think he is!
Take it easy - and nice to have considered chat, rather than the mud throwing that disagreeing comments often are (yes I'm guilty too!)
Well the 7 minute guitar solos are a good example of something in which there is surely some genius but it is not my cup of tea. Maybe it is just music for musicians, and I can understand how some people would love it and others (including me) wouldn't "get" it. It is surely interesting for anyone experimenting with cross-genre epic guitar or electronica solos.
What turns me off though is the antiseptic, art-for-art's-sake or weirdness-for-weirdness-sake character of so much of his music. It never seems to be "about" anything, besides random satirical sound bites. He's got, what, 60-70 albums, almost all self-produced, and most of it even his fans admit is unlistenable. It's mostly an exercise in artistic masturbation.
Another internet radio station (Head Case Radio) plays a lot of Zappa, and the DJ's often apologize to the audience before AND after a spate of Zappa songs, because they know that that it's like some kind of weird, slimy food — disgusting to most people but essential to a small, hardcore minority. I guess in this case I'm in the majority.
Yeah...you're right up to a point. Some of his stuff isn't that accessible. And yet look at the doo wop stuff he did with the Mothers? Completely the opposite. Also consider the times much of his stuff was written...it was music of its time, in that many people were being massively experimental and he was one of them, trying to push the boundaries. I don't like all FZ I admit. But I find melody and rhythm in a lot of his songs, I love some of the epic guitar solo compositions. And I realise many don't! As for his lyrics? Well he took the piss out of lots of people he considered phonies and posers. Ironic as I suspect that's what you think he is!
Take it easy - and nice to have considered chat, rather than the mud throwing that disagreeing comments often are (yes I'm guilty too!)
SparkyMarky wrote:
Well the 7 minute guitar solos are a good example of something in which there is surely some genius but it is not my cup of tea. Maybe it is just music for musicians, and I can understand how some people would love it and others (including me) wouldn't "get" it. It is surely interesting for anyone experimenting with cross-genre epic guitar or electronica solos.
What turns me off though is the antiseptic, art-for-art's-sake or weirdness-for-weirdness-sake character of so much of his music. It never seems to be "about" anything, besides random satirical sound bites. He's got, what, 60-70 albums, almost all self-produced, and most of it even his fans admit is unlistenable. It's mostly an exercise in artistic masturbation.
Another internet radio station (Head Case Radio) plays a lot of Zappa, and the DJ's often apologize to the audience before AND after a spate of Zappa songs, because they know that that it's like some kind of weird, slimy food — disgusting to most people but essential to a small, hardcore minority. I guess in this case I'm in the majority.
Ok Uncle longhair and JohnJConn. I heistitate to give your comments validity by replying. But amongst the reasons Frank was a great was the orchestral scope of some of his rockband work, which brought together some really great guitar work into some monumental rock songs - especially so in his live work. Now, I accept that not every band is everyone's cup of tea, but to anyone who likes complex rock songs Frank could do that, the way he blended in a lot of percussion and voices with his driving guitar. Look at 'Willie the Pimp (with excellent Beefheart vocals), or Inca roads. His so-called 'silly lyrics' were very often what we Brits call irony - something that large swathes of the USA seems to have long forgotten about
Well the 7 minute guitar solos are a good example of something in which there is surely some genius but it is not my cup of tea. Maybe it is just music for musicians, and I can understand how some people would love it and others (including me) wouldn't "get" it. It is surely interesting for anyone experimenting with cross-genre epic guitar or electronica solos.
What turns me off though is the antiseptic, art-for-art's-sake or weirdness-for-weirdness-sake character of so much of his music. It never seems to be "about" anything, besides random satirical sound bites. He's got, what, 60-70 albums, almost all self-produced, and most of it even his fans admit is unlistenable. It's mostly an exercise in artistic masturbation.
Another internet radio station (Head Case Radio) plays a lot of Zappa, and the DJ's often apologize to the audience before AND after a spate of Zappa songs, because they know that that it's like some kind of weird, slimy food — disgusting to most people but essential to a small, hardcore minority. I guess in this case I'm in the majority.
unclelonghair wrote:
FWIW I agree. For me Zappa is like the Grateful Dead. Die hard fans who swear it's the greatest, but the music isn't really that good, and gets irritating after a while. Or you could say that it only sounds good if you're pretty stoned.
A lot of Zappa music comes dangerously close to a toddler playing with an electric piano with a tape deck running. I have never really understood the appeal. Without the weird stream of consciousness lyrics there would be no reason to listen.
Ok Uncle longhair and JohnJConn. I heistitate to give your comments validity by replying. But amongst the reasons Frank was a great was the orchestral scope of some of his rockband work, which brought together some really great guitar work into some monumental rock songs - especially so in his live work. Now, I accept that not every band is everyone's cup of tea, but to anyone who likes complex rock songs Frank could do that, the way he blended in a lot of percussion and voices with his driving guitar. Look at 'Willie the Pimp (with excellent Beefheart vocals), or Inca roads. His so-called 'silly lyrics' were very often what we Brits call irony - something that large swathes of the USA seems to have long forgotten about
FWIW I agree. For me Zappa is like the Grateful Dead. Die hard fans who swear it's the greatest, but the music isn't really that good, and gets irritating after a while. Or you could say that it only sounds good if you're pretty stoned.
A lot of Zappa music comes dangerously close to a toddler playing with an electric piano with a tape deck running. I have never really understood the appeal. Without the weird stream of consciousness lyrics there would be no reason to listen.
Papernapkin wrote:
FWIW I agree. For me Zappa is like the Grateful Dead. Die hard fans who swear it's the greatest, but the music isn't really that good, and gets irritating after a while. Or you could say that it only sounds good if you're pretty stoned.
A lot of Zappa music comes dangerously close to a toddler playing with an electric piano with a tape deck running. I have never really understood the appeal. Without the weird stream of consciousness lyrics there would be no reason to listen.
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
FWIW I agree. For me Zappa is like the Grateful Dead. Die hard fans who swear it's the greatest, but the music isn't really that good, and gets irritating after a while. Or you could say that it only sounds good if you're pretty stoned.
A lot of Zappa music comes dangerously close to a toddler playing with an electric piano with a tape deck running. I have never really understood the appeal. Without the weird stream of consciousness lyrics there would be no reason to listen.
bluedot wrote:
Haha, this comment is the most clueless that I've seen on any forum in a LONG time!
For those of you who don't know, this song is about shock treatment at Camarillo State (mental) Hospital in Camarillo, California (near Ventura).
Bluedot - you are so on the money. I suspect papernapkin wouldn't know a 'cool guy' if he came up and bit him on the leg. Papernapkin, write out 'Frank was one of the most original musicians ever and I wish I didn't like boybands so much' 100 times
Haha, this comment is the most clueless that I've seen on any forum in a LONG time!
For those of you who don't know, this song is about shock treatment at Camarillo State (mental) Hospital in Camarillo, California (near Ventura).
Bluedot - you are so on the money. I suspect papernapkin wouldn't know a 'cool guy' if he came up and bit him on the leg. Papernapkin, write out 'Frank was one of the most original musicians ever and I wish I didn't like boybands so much' 100 times
Papernapkin wrote:
Shurely you jest!
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
Shurely you jest!
Papernapkin wrote:
Ahem. You are about as wrong as can be in your "judgement" about his musicianship. Not that your opinion is worth anything, right?
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
Ahem. You are about as wrong as can be in your "judgement" about his musicianship. Not that your opinion is worth anything, right?
Sang this classic Frank to myself and anyone who would listen countless times.
Yeah! Great Zappa song, one of the best from the man!
Camarillo mental hospital is now a California State University (CSU Channel Islands). Beautiful campus with some interesting architecture, and some of the buildings unused by the school can be a bit creepy. You can get tours of the place, though I think they're more thorough for people who are planning events than they are for students or whatnot. There are some trickles of ghost stories, but I've never heard one first hand. Just some Camarillo news for y'all!
Papernapkin wrote:
Haha, this comment is the most clueless that I've seen on any forum in a LONG time!
For those of you who don't know, this song is about shock treatment at Camarillo State (mental) Hospital in Camarillo, California (near Ventura).
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
Haha, this comment is the most clueless that I've seen on any forum in a LONG time!
For those of you who don't know, this song is about shock treatment at Camarillo State (mental) Hospital in Camarillo, California (near Ventura).
Finally some Zappa! It's been a long drought. More!
I love Zappa's stuff but this is my favorite 
This is not a real poncho
Papernapkin wrote:
You must be kidding or just tease?
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
You must be kidding or just tease?
Papernapkin wrote:
And you make asinine comments because you like to stir up shit and thinking of yourself as a non-conformist makes you feel cool! Pathetic!
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
And you make asinine comments because you like to stir up shit and thinking of yourself as a non-conformist makes you feel cool! Pathetic!
Papernapkin wrote:
I can't believe you wrote that.
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
I can't believe you wrote that.
horstman wrote:
I give Frank good reviews and high points because he is (was) a gifted musician. I give you poor marks because you are an idiot.
Papernapkin wrote:
I give Frank good reviews and high points because he is (was) a gifted musician. I give you poor marks because you are an idiot.
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
I give Frank good reviews and high points because he is (was) a gifted musician. I give you poor marks because you are an idiot.
andrewimft wrote:
bump
bump
I try NOT to listen to RP this late, but when I do, it's good to know Frank is out there
And carried on without a comma,
That she was someone I should know.
Brilliant.
Frank's a cool guy. Just a crappy musician. I think people give him high marks because it makes them appear cool.
Great to hear Zappa again! Is that a real poncho or is that a Sears poncho?!
play more "dirty love"!
mmmm more Frank
Almost anything Zappa did was Godlike — 200 Motels, crazy stream of consciousness interspersed with moments of utter musical genious. And let's not forget:Saint Alfonzo's Pancake Breakfast
Where I stole the margarine
An' willdled on the Bingo Cards in lieu of the latrine
I saw a handsome parish lady
Make her entrance like a queen
Why she was totally chenille
And her old man was a Marine
As she abused a sausage pattie
And said why don't you treat me mean?
(Hurt me, hurt me, hurt me, ooooh!)
Saint Alfonzo's Pancake Breakfast
Where I stole the margarine
Only Zappa could pull off a song like this :) The original LP cover art was really "different", especially around the border that was trimmed out in some later versions...
MUHA!
Sweet... Zappa on RP!
Too repetitious. Not my fave Zappa song.
Parish music... so inspiring!
It's not bad at all being Grass vally and having a bit of Zappa Playn' on the puter..
mandolin wrote:
You mean after placing oneself in the, uh, proper mindset?
...remember back when listening to a proper stereo used to be a recreational activity?..those were great times...
You mean after placing oneself in the, uh, proper mindset?
Priceless!
...remember back when listening to a proper stereo used to be a recreational activity?..those were great times...
It's a Sear poncho. Get over it.
Peace_tode wrote:
Read an interview from anyone who played in his band and you will hear.
His bands were basically proving grounds for great musicians —- people like Lowell George, Steve Vai, Chester Thompson, Chad Wackerman, Terry Bozzio, Aynsley Dunbar, Vinnie Colaiuta.
If you want to see what he put his drummers through, Google "The Black Page", named for the number of notes on the chart.
Admittedly his music can be a tough listen sometimes, but between his musical mastery and the sheer size of his brain he was in many ways an admirable guy.
Read an interview from anyone who played in his band and you will hear.
His bands were basically proving grounds for great musicians —- people like Lowell George, Steve Vai, Chester Thompson, Chad Wackerman, Terry Bozzio, Aynsley Dunbar, Vinnie Colaiuta.
If you want to see what he put his drummers through, Google "The Black Page", named for the number of notes on the chart.
Admittedly his music can be a tough listen sometimes, but between his musical mastery and the sheer size of his brain he was in many ways an admirable guy.
This album -- in its entirety -- shows the talent Mr Zappa wielded. Full of catchy melodies and sizzling guitar solos, it could have generated Top 40 hits if the absurd lyrics had been carefully scrubbed for radio.
Those of us with wider tastes in the 1970s were blessed to hear this when it was fresh.
Is that a real poncho? I mean, is that a Mexican poncho or is that a Sears poncho?
I caught the tail-end of the popularity of this stuff while growing up near Boston. Zappa was too jazzy, intelligent and weird for mainstream success most of the time. He hit it big with "Sheik Yerbouti" .