I've been writing about instrumental, experimental, and electronic music for over a decade. In 2017 I decided to chronologically go through the "1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die" list, taking individual notes on each one, whether I liked it or not. So besides my regular recommendations of the modern marvels, you may see a few cringe words on some albums that I wish I'd never heard. Follow the journey along!
And here I thought that the Beatles were the most innovative band of the late 60s with their studio experimentation. Frank Zappa and his Mothers of Invention pretty much blow them out of the water. Ranging from psychedelia to doo-wop, to experimental rock, and unusual textures explored through musique concrète, Zappa takes the concept album to a brand new height, by satirizing politicians, the hippie culture, and the commercialization of music [as the title suggests]. Let's face it - Zappa doesn't give a rock! Just look at the cover [which originally only appeared only as an interior artwork], with Cal Schenkel photographing the members [and Jimi Hendrix!] as a parody of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. And is that Eric Clapton whispering on "Are You Hung Up?" [yep!]. Before being pressed the label has censored some lyrics by editing them out, and subsequently, Zappa refused to accept the award for the album, saying "I prefer that the award be presented to the guy who modified this record because what you're hearing is more reflective of his work than mine." Bravo! There's plenty of themes hating on "flower power" on here, on which Zappa commented that "hippies were pretty stupid. [...] the people involved in [youth] processes [...] are very sensitive to criticism. They always take themselves too seriously." And yeah, it's funny! Perhaps not for its musical or lyrical content [although, there is some serious complexity on rhythmic patterns on here], this is the album that will certainly dislodge you and keep you on your toes for the years to come!!!