The Grand Wazoo CD

The Grand Wazoo by Frank Zappa is a 1972 album from his large-ensemble period, recorded while he was recovering from injuries sustained after being pushed from a London stage the previous year. Following Waka/Jawaka, it expands Zappa’s jazz-rock writing into a brass-heavy big-band setting with room for both arranged passages and improvisation. The title track unfolds as an extended ensemble piece, while “Eat That Question” gives the album one of its more direct electric keyboard and rhythm-section workouts. “Blessed Relief” closes the record on a quieter note, showing the more lyrical side of the same group concept. Available on CD.