Zappa's Universe

Zappa's Universe Review

07/13/2005 6:23 AM, AMG


A series of concerts was held in November 1991 at the Ritz in New York City to celebrate 25 years of the music of Frank Zappa, but the mood was dampened considerably when it was announced prior to the first concert that the honoree would not be attending because he was fighting the prostate cancer that would end his life just over two years later. One of the highlights is the inclusion of the Persuasions, a doo wop group signed to its first recording contract by Zappa. Although guitarist Mike Keneally and bassist Scott Thunes are present from Zappa's final touring band (which broke up during the European leg of Zappa's final tour in 1988), Dweezil Zappa (Zappa's talented young son and a fine guitarist in his own right) solos on "Dirty Love," and former Zappa guitarist Steve Vai makes a guest appearance on "Hot Plate Heaven at the Green Hotel," Zappa's presence on stage is sorely missed. Conductor and arranger Joel Thome, who conceived these tribute concerts, is to be congratulated for his efforts, though none of the songs begin to compare with Frank Zappa's own versions, which are readily available on CD. There is also a video version of these concerts that includes music omitted from this CD. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide