APOSTROPHE (')

Frank Zappa was simply a music machine. These days, it seems to take mose musicians anywhere from two to five years to complete an album. But Frank was pumping out albums, mostly high quality music, at more than two albums a year. And this was another home run. At this point, Zappa had, arguably, one of his best lineups ever.

George Duke, Tom and Bruce Fowler, Ralph Humphrey and all were incredible, but what set this band apart was Ruth Underwood. Having played occasionally with Zappa as early as "Uncle Meat", on this album, for the first time we get to hear her completely revolutionize the percussionist role in music. What she does in the Don't Eat Yellow Snow suite is absolutely incredible. And her talent seemed to inspire Zappa to compose more and more incredible passages for her to play during her stint in the band.

Okay, enough gushing about Ruth. The rest of the album is great as well. Although there is a lot of blues riffing, it's all done with that inimitable Zappa style and humor. Cozmik Debris is a hilarious song, detailing a good way to deal with anyone spouting any sort of mystical bull$#!t. Stink-Foot is just a scream, as well. And don't miss Apostrophe', with a guest appearance by none other than Jack Bruce, who plays a mean fuzz bass solo.