THE SAFENZEE DIARIES

Frogg Café's music has always amazed me because it blends the elements of jazz, symphony, Zappa-ism as well as rock into a beautifully crafted compositions. Their third album "Fortunate Observer Of Time" is excellent. And now the band comes up with a live double CD album with a nice digipak version including a series of excellent photos. If you are a Zappa fan, it's more likely that you would love Frogg Café music. Their msic is truly brilliant and excellent.

The CD starts with a bass solo as an intro of "Leave Of Absinthe" (8:24) followed with a stream of excellent music in medium tempo showcasing a good combination of brass section as well as electric guitar. The trumpet solo is really cool. "Space Dust" (8:38) enters beautifully in medium tempo with tight bass lines and a bit of Canterbury style when alto sax gives its work. "Gagutz" (11:17) is really an excellent track that I expect the band plays. It comprised great solo especially on violin and it reminds me to Jean Luc Ponty or Mahavisnu Orchestra music. It's really cool and entertaining.

"Candy Korn" (12:17) sounds like a big band with dynamic music opening which combines staccato music of violin, keyboard, trumpet and dynamic drumming. The trumpet solo in the middle of the track makes a good live vibe of the performance. "Il Gioco" (5:17) flows in relatively upbeat tempo with excellent brass section work. "Small Chuwawa" (10:18) is something like a blend of Zappa and Jean Luc Ponty music / Mahavishnu Orchestra. It's cool. "Abyss Of Dissension" (14:18) is performed better than the studio track.

Overall, this is an excellent live performance with excellent sonic quality that helps make more pleasant listening experience If you enjoy jazz and Frank Zappa, you must have this album. It's a terrific live album. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW