This is my third time seeing Zappa Plays Zappa, and each time has been a completely different show. They learn different songs for each tour, which definitely keeps it interesting. Zappa’s catalogue is so extensive and varied that they could keep doing this for years without repeating themselves. The attention to detail of this eight piece band, led by Frank’s son Dweezil Zappa, is breathtaking. Some people may consider this just another tribute act from L.A., but it’s so much more. Dweezil has compared it to the way orchestras perform the works of great composers like Mozart and Beethoven. They don’t put their own spin on it; they try to recreate the music as accurately as possible. Considering the complexity and depth of most of Zappa’s songs, I think that’s a valid analogy.
Not only do they do faithful versions of Zappa’s music, but Dweezil manages to recreate Frank’s guitar tone to an astonishing degree. His years of homework have really paid off. It doesn’t hurt that he has access to Frank’s original guitar gear and effects, either. Frank had his own style of playing and soloing, and when Dweezil starts ripping, it really sounds like his old man. He even recreates subtle sonic changes specific to certain songs, like the sludgy, thicker tone of the lead guitar in “Po-Jama People” and the thin trebly guitar squalls in “Don’t Eat The Yellow Snow”.
Since Frank is no longer with us (hard to believe it’s been almost eighteen years) this is the closest you are going to get to the real deal. As long as they keep playing, I’ll keep buying a ticket.
