Frank Zappa: Funky Nothingness - A detailed look at this new release of rare recordings

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We review Frank Zappa: Funky Nothingness, a new release featuring rare recordings, mostly from around 1970 (after the Hot Rats sessions). These tracks have a funky, gritty vibe that would continue in subsequent recordings like Waka/Jawaka.

To find out more, please visit zappa.com

"The sessions, which took place primarily in February and March 1970 at the new studio, featured Zappa once again in the producer’s chair and joined by several of the musicians that played on Hot Rats, including Mothers member Ian Underwood (keyboard, saxophone, rhythm guitar), violinist and vocalist Don “Sugarcane**” Harris, and Wrecking Crew bassist Max Bennett. The five-piece band was rounded out by Aynsley *Dunbar*, who had just relocated to Los Angeles and moved in with Zappa following his invite to join the band. Together the group recorded hours’ worth of original compositions, inspired covers and extended improvisations that drew from Zappa’s R&B and blues roots, while blending influences of the emerging jazz fusion scene. Largely instrumental, these recordings showcased the guitarist’s virtuosity, while offering what could have easily been the sequel to Hot Rats, had it ever been released."

Previous reviews on CatSynth of Zappa releases:
Hot Rats Sessions: https://youtu.be/Qo4Y04Cfnoc
Waka/Wazoo: https://youtu.be/kKHySQasmAw

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Category
Funky