Frank Zappa - Philly '76 (2009)

Never underestimate Frank's ability to squeeze the maximum amount of talent out of his musicians- this album, recorded in a transitional period off the heels of the Zoot Allures album stands as a testament to his workmanship and passion for his craft. 

Bringing in Bianca Odin for vocals and keyboards and a stripped down backing band (Ray White on guitar, Eddie Jobson on violin and keys, Patrick O'Hearn on bass and Terry Bozzio on drums) it's an interesting filler and most likely only truly appreciated by hardcore Zappa fans. 
Frank Zappa - Philly '76 (2009; Vaulternative Records)

Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart - Bongo Fury (1975)

This is beyond "required listening". Two legends; one at the apex of his career, one at the nadir. Zappa was selling out arenas and Beefheart couldn't get anyone to play with him (the entire Magic Band up and quit on him in '74, due to his "abusive behavior"). Needless to say, Beefheart couldn't get a gig at a dive bar and Frank felt he owed him (they've been friends since high school). The two geniuses had a pretty strained relationship around this time; they were both on "ego trips" says former Zappa drummer Jimmy Carl Black, with Beef mostly drawing sketches on-stage of Zappa and Frank in turn hating the Captain's work ethic (Zappa was a notorious workhorse).

This album is notable also for the lineup featured; it's at the intersection of two of Frank's greatest bands- blending the early 70's incarnation with Napoleon Murphy Brock and Chester Thompson with the late 70's era band with Terry Bozzio and the Fowler brothers.   

One of my favorite records of the mid-1970s; listen to the Captain ramble nonsense over fantastic Zappa art rock compositions. Enjoy!

Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart - Bongo Fury (1975; DiscReet Records)

Frank Zappa - Lumpy Gravy (1968)

Who better to post on April Fool's Day?

Frank Zappa is the king. I've pledged my undying allegiance to his genius ever since I was a young man, which, come to think of it- is exactly why he still appeals to me; the scatological humor, the whole anti-establishment vibe, his politically incorrectness, his supreme guitar work...

Lumpy Gravy was Zappa's first album without The Mothers moniker, and it's a pastiche of conversations with his band (inside a piano), found sounds, tape loops, splices, etc. A freaky piece of experimental sound collages with occasional jazz rock sprinkled about. Not for the faint of heart, and not for you serious indie rock types.

Frank Zappa - Lumpy Gravy (1968; Verve Records)