| Date | Label | Catalog # | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Jun 2023 | Universal | 3CD, 2LP. |
Funky Nothingness is a new collection of 25 rare and previously unreleased tracks from the legendary Zappa Vault. The project is set for release via Zappa Records/UMe on June 30.
The story of Funky Nothingness dates back to 1969, after The Mothers of Invention disbanded, Frank Zappa released his groundbreaking solo debut, Hot Rats. Fusing jazz and rock, the innovative album became one of the artist’s bestselling releases, thanks to classic tracks like “Peaches En Regalia” and “Willie the Pimp.” Over the following year, in between various projects (including producing Captain Beefheart’s Trout Mask Replica, and emceeing Belgium’s Festival Actuel, where Zappa met British drummer Aynsley Dunbar), he assembled a core group to lay down tracks at Los Angeles’ recently opened Record Plant.
The sessions, which took place primarily in February and March 1970 at the new studio, featured Zappa once again in the producer’s chair and joined by several of the musicians that played on Hot Rats, including Mothers member Ian Underwood (keyboard, saxophone, rhythm guitar), violinist and vocalist Don “Sugarcane” Harris, and Wrecking Crew bassist Max Bennett.
The five-piece band was rounded out by Aynsley Dunbar, who had just relocated to Los Angeles and moved in with Zappa following his invitation to join the band. Together the group recorded hours’ worth of original compositions, inspired covers, and extended improvisations that drew from Zappa’s R&B and Blues roots, while blending influences of the emerging jazz fusion scene. Largely instrumental, these recordings showcased the guitarist’s virtuosity, while offering what could have easily been the sequel to Hot Rats, had it ever been released.
CD 1
CD 2
CD 3
Frank Zappa
Guitar, Vocals
Ian Underwood
Keyboard, Saxophone, Rhythm Guitar
Don Harris
Violin, Vocals
Max Bennett.
Bass
Aynsley Dunbar
Drums
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