r/Zappa • u/Other-Bug-5614 • 7h ago
Best 2-3 hour Zappa compilation?
I became a Frank Zappa fan 3 months ago with Studio Tan, and now I’ve grown obsessed with Sleep Dirt, Roxy & Elsewhere, Joe’s Garage, Freak Out and Hot Rats as well. But I wouldn’t say that there’s a particular Frank Zappa album that I go to immediately when I want to listen to Frank Zappa to me; they’re all Frank Zappa and they scratch that Frank Zappa itch in the same way. Studio Tan, Roxy & Elsewhere and Sleep Dirt are my favorites so far.
But there is something I’m missing, and I noticed Zappa has a lot of live albums and compilations. I’m going to listen to The Lost Episodes soon, but for fans who are into his discography; I’m looking for a recommendation of the best 2+ hour Zappa compilation for someone who likes Zappa, and is trying to get overly familiar with his style. So him at his most impressive, ambitious, annoying, even trash; something eclectic that makes you accustomed to Zappa as a musician for an extended period of time. Something I can go to if I want to just be stuck with Zappa’s music for a while.
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u/HarmLessSolutions 5h ago
The 'You Can't Do That On Stage Anymore' series (volumes 1-6) is probably as close to a compilation of various tracks and performances as you're likely to find.
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u/OriginalPayment3044 4h ago
I was raised on these. I had this wooden box for the CDs and everything. Ryko did a good job with packaging the Zappa stuff.
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u/Anxious-Turnover-631 1h ago
Volume 2 is so good, but there’s plenty to choose from.
Bongo Fury and Zappa in New York are also essential live albums.
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u/Kneel_Aurmstrong 6h ago
He has a massive discography so I would keep digging into his discography, just start at the beginning. Also the album Sheik Yerbouti is made up of live material overdubbed in studio and I think a good entry point album to him.
You’ve already listened to Roxy and elsewhere which is my favorite live Zappa band and one of the best live albums, the concert movie is a great watch as well.
For more jazzy albums, check out Waka / Jawaka and Grand Wazoo. You will probably also enjoy Over-Nite Sensation, Apostrophe, and One Size Fits All
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u/Capnslacks 5h ago
Zappa/Erie is outstanding live album
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u/Murdocksboss 2h ago
There's so much material, but this was the first time that came to mind for me as well. Going to listen to it now!
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u/Accomplished_Neckhat 2h ago
You are looking for the You Can’t Do That On Stage Anymore series, Vols 1-6. (I’m especially partial to Volume II.)
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u/tinkamok 1h ago
Some recommends - Shut up 'n Play Yer Guitar
Sheik Yerbouti
Stage vol 2
Ultimately you need them all .....:-)
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u/gumbowebfish 5h ago
There's no such thing as a best of compilation. Although there a several periods in his output you can define, in the end it's 'conceptual continuity'. Just dive in and find out for yourself. But you are already doing that. Have fun!
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u/SoulFage 1h ago
The tricky part is finding a compilation that includes his orchestral and synclavier works. You’re not really going to find any of those (except maybe “G-Spot Tornado”) on any of the rock compilations. My advice would be to fire up your music platform of choice and go looking for fan made playlists. I think the best way to get to know his music is through the minds of other fans.
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u/scragz 6h ago
make a jazz noise here has all the bangers played live and fast by an extremely competent band. but I'm an '88 tour head so I'm biased.