February 16 & 17 - A Part & Yet Apart

[Extended Play]

Frank Zappa's album Studio Tan ('78) was originally slated to be released as a part of the Läther box set in 1974. Warner Brothers delayed the box set and ultimately forced Frank to split it up, setting off a legal battle that lasted Frank Zappa until after his death. First up is the cartoon surrealism of Gregory Peccary with it's almost exclusively Zappa social commentary. This piece builds on several previous continuity clues in his previous albums, as well as incorporating Billy The Mountain (Just Another Band From LA).

I would be neglecting my duties as comentator here if I didn't mention that this is the certerpiece of the album. Of course, this is by no means the only great thing on Studio Tan. Revised Music For Guitar & Low Budget Orchestra is a great example of Zappa's skill at creating an orchestral rock arrangement, but secondary in that respect to the final song RDNZL. This is possibly the greatest jazz-rock piece ever put to record by Frank. It makes every second worthwhile.

Frank Zappa - Studio Tan (@Allmusic.com)

With an almost eastern flavor, the Trey Gunn Band's Joy of Molybdenum easily transcends its rock roots. Although not every song on it is equally accessible and inviting, it's true worthiness lies in the overall texture of the music.

The Trey Gunn Band - The Joy of Molybdenum(@Allmusic.com)

Of Pink Floyd's two major failed projects (The Man & The Journey and Household Objects), The Man & The Journey is the most available. This concert of theirs from Amsterdam in 1969 is probably the best surviving record of the project. The concept piece was mostly composed of songs from previous and forthcoming albums, with some music entirely original to the project. Through the two links below, you can find out more about this show.

The Background on The Man & The Journey

Concertgebow, Amsterdam - 17th September, 1969