JOE'S GARAGE, ACTS I, II & III

In some ways this album is a masterpiece. Perhaps not the fullest sence prog, but there are some very progressive songs, and progressiveness mixed in with all the other styles present here. But, there are some incredable pieces of music, along with regular and not so good ones. Another thing that i think scares people off is the obscene nature of some songs. "Stick it Out" and "Sy Borg" in particular are at times very sexual in content. However, this does not decrease the value of the record, in my opinion. Granted, it doesn't add anything to it, and don't turn this down because for that reason. The plot: Music becomes illegal. Joe is arrested for making music. Through a series of events, Joe is eventually led to having sex with machines. He destroys one such machine, and again is thrown in prison, where he is "plooked", alot. He gets out and realizes now life without music is horrible.

Ok, now that that is taken care of, let's move on to the songs/music. As I said, i find the music to be extremly strong at times. "Fembot In A Wet T-shirt" is a great example of great percussion use that Zappa had. In fact, there are many other songs here that show off Ed Mann's ablity to play. "Why does it hurt when i pee?" is an amazing song. Forget the vocal (which are sung great) the music is just stunning, especially the middle instramental section. Wow!! Another fantastic song is "Outside Now". Very melancholy, very beautiful (at times). The lyrics slighty bend towards the lewd side, but that stops after the first few minutes. "Packard Goose" is another great song with an excellent guitar solo. Also, the drums deserve a mention as they are played expertly. "Watermelon in easter Hay" is one of the best guitar solos ever. The sadness that is produced from the guitar is stunning. This is one of Frank's best songs. It makes sense why they used it at his funeral. A very emotional song. Other great songs included: "Stick It Out" "A Token Of My Extreme" "Keep It Greasey" and "Joe's Garage". These show some great musical moments, despite having a sexual connotation to them ("Stick it out" and "Keep It Greasey"). There are only a few moments that drag the CD and nothing to the extreme that it makes it a bad song.

All in all, this record has some essential listenings on it, "Watermelon in Easter Hay" in particular. Zappa fans should have this one around, as well of fans of eithre naughty language or great music. Recommended.

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