HOT RATS

This was my first Zappa album after Were Only In it For the Money(one of the worst beginner albums, but one of my favorites as well). This choice was because of the fact that I had read about the suposed abundance of guitar playing on this album(as a 12 year old guitarist, I was initially attracted mostly to this ouvre of Zappa's work....Luckily, I matured quickly!). I think that all the songs on this album are at least good, but there are several albums I find more interesting, or generally more compelling. One aspect of this LP that I like very much is the abundance of elegant, genteel and almost cartoonish sounds, such as in Peaches En Regalia and, especially, Little Umbrellas. Also, when you're in the mood for this album, it can be an incredible listening experience.

Peaches En Regalia- Undisputed classic among Zappa fans, great melody and assortment of sounds. (9/10)

Willie the Pimp- Great bluesy guitar riff & solo(I like Frank's soloing best when he is playing in a blues-influenced manner). Never becomes boring despite the length (9:16), and simplicity. Captain Beefheart sings here, and does a great job. (10/10)

Son of Mr. Green Genes- I dig the juxtaposition of lush, elegant passages and a wonderfully dirty guitar solo, though it is rather similar to his "Willie the Pimp" solo (8/10)

Little Umbrellas- Absolutely exquisite arranged. Elegant and very evocative. Love the woodwinds. (10/10)

The Gumbo Variations- Interesting improvisation and saxophone work by the talented Ian Underwood. Unfortunately not that consistent, but not exactly boring. (7/10)

It Must Be A Camel- I must admit that I don't listen to this track much, nice melody though. (7/10)