THE MOTHERS OF INVENTION: OVER-NITE SENSATION

Frank Zappa

RIO/Avant-Prog

4.02 | 736 ratings

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LiquidEternity
Prog Reviewer

This is one of Zappa's more popular albums, due in part to its higher level of commercial digestibility and due in part to some of Zappa's more memorable lyrical exploits.

The first three tracks are all solid and entertaining, featuring some weird vocals here and there and some splendid guitar chops. All three are fairly upbeat--a classification that can likely be applied to the entire album here, when comparing it to previous Zappa albums. Fifty-Fifty features some screaming vocals that, as far as I have been able to find, are some of the earlier occurrences of such stylings. It works very well with the musical aim, I think, and it is not unlistenable like so many bands are who try such screaming. One of Frank's most intense guitar solos kicks in partway through the track and proves that this band is not just any common sort of angsty act.

Zomby Woof, one of Over-Nite Sensation's most catchy songs, features his usual sexually-undertoned (okay, so usually it's his usual sexually-overtoned) lyrics. Another classic jam in the middle sets up the final chorus, a melody that I find stuck in my head more often than any other Zappa tune. Dinah-Moe Hum is a live classic, I've been told, and while the music is pretty laid back and mellow, the lyrics feature some of his most explicit discussions of sex. If you enjoy Frank's twisted sense of humor, then you will certainly enjoy this song. The closing track, Montana, features some nicely progressive twists on a country song. It's hard, in truth, to dislike any song expressing the performer's desire to become a dental floss tycoon. It wraps up the album quite solidly.

In all, this is one of Frank Zappa's stronger releases. It's not even a terrible place to start, especially if you are a fan of more easily accessible prog. It gives a good taste both of the instrumental prowess of the band and the usual lyrical fare.

LiquidEternity | 4/5 | 2008-9-30

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