WAKA / JAWAKA

After being attacked by a fan at one of his concerts (being pushed off the stage), Frank would be laid up in a wheelchair. He took this time to create two Jazz records in a similar vein to "Hot Rats". This is the first one, and on the cover is a picture of a sink with the names "Hot" and "Rats" on the taps. The second album he recorded after this was the "Grand Wazoo".This would also end the Flo and Eddie experiment.

"Big Swifty" is a massive, complex Jazz tune that for me goes on too long. It's a side long suite that is uptempo with constant outbreaks of various instruments. The tempo does shift at times and I like the guitar and drumming before 8 minutes. "Your Mouth" is the weakest track on the album. Vocals and horns lead the way. I just don't like it very much.

"Just Might Be A One-Shot Deal" is another vocal track. This one is more dynamic and ingenius. The pedal-steel guitar solo goes on and on. Nice. It has a real Southern feel to it. I like it. "Waka / Jawaka" is similar to the first song but better in my opinion. Some great drumming 8 minutes in but before that the horns and moog offer enjoyment.

I like this record but it doesn't match up well with "Hot Rats" in my opinion. What does though ? Still an easy 4 stars.