Zappa, Frank
Philadelphia 1980 (4cd)
The professionally remastered release of Zappa's Philadelphia show comes in a 4-CD box that both feature the early and the late show of that day. For his 1980 tour Frank Zappa ventured out with an uncharacteristically small band and a no-nonsense attitude. No percussionist, No horn player, no stunt guitarist, no secret words. Instead with Arthur Barrow's bass holding things down and Tommy Mars' orchestral keyboards for atmospherics Zappa launches into a succession of spectacular guitar solos that could be the finest air-sculptures ever committed to tape. The concerts captured here also document the playing of often overlooked sideman David Logeman whose drumming fits the material perfectly. Ike Willis and Ray White are in great voice for two lengthy sets of material from 'Joe's Garage,' 'You Are What You Is,' 'Sheik Yerbouti,' 'Tinseltown Rebellion' and other classics. Two incredible shows, performed at the Tower Theatre, Philadelphia, PA on April 29th 1980 and broadcast on WMMR-FM. Disc 1 and 2 feature the early show, while disc 3 and 4 feature the late show on that brilliant day.