[rating=4.00]
Listening to Dweezil Zappa’s Return of The Son of …, one is reminded of the genius and musical originality of Frank Zappa, who died at age 53, in 1993, of prostate cancer. Dweezil, one of Zappa’s four children, is a musical master and prodigy in his own right, and this heartfelt tribute is rife with Frank Zappa classics, fourteen to be exact. The FZ repertoire is mined and presented in exacting detail, which is beyond impressive and illustrates an ultimate tributary act of love. Dweezil improvises on many of the guitar solos, which suggests why he released this offering not as a Zappa Plays Zappa project recording but as his own; he seems to be indicating a desire to return to his own style and work.
These recordings are selections from the ZPZ project’s live performances over the past several years, including shows in New York, Chicago, and London. It presents the listener with epic and dynamic Zappa tunes, such as “King Kong” (20:55) and “Billy the Mountain” (a marathon at 27:33), with “Billy…” featuring extended band-member solos. And the Zap-orchestra that Dweezil has assembled for this monumental project comprises polished musicians, many who worked with the senior Zappa on recordings and live performances, including drummer and vocalist Terry Bozzio and guest guitarist Steve Vai. Zap vet Ray White also contributes his signature vocals throughout this multiple-leg tour.
“Inca Roads” is a key track on this live recording. Its furious musicality, sweeping melodies, and smile-producing wordplay highlight Frank Zappa’s knack for intricate compositions flavored with farcical wit. It’s a soundtrack for modern brain activity with battling jazz organ and Zappa guitar licks evoking an interpretation of an urban scene, perhaps a frenzied Manhattan on too much coffee.
Any true fan of either Frank or Dweezil will want this recording in their collection. Multiple listening sessions of this portfolio will have the listener discovering new and delightful nuances.
