Frank Zappa
Waka / Jawaka
1972
Producer: Zappa
Rating: *** (Noteworthy)
Released August 1972, reached #152 in US
Never one to settle into formula, Zappa offers two medium-sized vocal cuts sandwiched by two extended fusion jams, the 11+ minute title track and the side-long “Big Swifty,” the former clearly coming out of the early 70s but featuring plenty of guitar and a mix of planning and improvisation, the latter fortunately coming out of the 60s’ version of fusion, the guitar recalling Larry Coryell’s groundbreaking work of the late 60s, this cut sounding like mostly improvisation, Zappa and his guitar conversing with the horns.
It’s all a bit excessive, but a worthwhile listen for fans of jazz fusion jams.