Artist: Frank Zappa Album: Them or Us

Year: 1984
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Frank Zappa’s Album: Them or Us

Frank Zappa, one of the most innovative musicians of all time, released his album Them or Us in 1984. The album presents various musical styles such as rock, jazz, and classical, showcasing Zappa's exceptional musicianship. In this article, we will take a closer look at the album's history, genre, best songs, most innovative parts, and criticism. Whether you are a die-hard Frank Zappa fan or just looking for some new music to listen to, this review is for you.

Frank Zappa was a multi-instrumentalist, composer, bandleader, and avant-garde musician who was well known for his extraordinary music style. He recorded more than 60 albums throughout his career, blending rock, jazz, classical, and experimental music. Them or Us was one of the many albums that he recorded in the 1980s, during a period that saw him embrace a more commercial sound.

Them or Us can be defined as a rock album with a hint of jazz and classical music. It is a double album containing 19 tracks in total. The album is divided into two parts, Them and Us, both with a different feel. Them presents a more commercial sound, while Us is more experimental and complex. The lyrics are often satirical, poking fun at different aspects of society, including politics, culture, and sex.

The album's best songs include Stevie's Spanking, The Closer You Are, and Whipping Post. Stevie's Spanking is a funky instrumental that showcases Zappa's exceptional guitar skills. The Closer You Are is a beautiful ballad that stands out for its slow melody and exceptional harmonies. Whipping Post is an excellent cover of the Allman Brothers' song, featuring some of the best guitar work on the album.

The most innovative parts of Them or Us are the abundance of solos and the use of classical instruments. Zappa was known for incorporating extended solos in his music, and this album was no exception. The use of classical instruments such as the oboe, clarinet, and cello also adds an innovative touch to the album.

While Them or Us is a great album overall, it is not without its criticism. Some critics argue that the album's sound is too commercial, and it does not showcase Zappa's full potential as an avant-garde musician. Additionally, some of the lyrics are controversial and have been labeled as misogynistic by some feminists.

In conclusion, Them or Us is a remarkable album that showcases Frank Zappa's exceptional musicianship. The combination of rock, jazz, and classical genres creates a unique sound that is enjoyable to listen to. The best songs, most innovative parts, and criticism indicate that the album is not without flaws, but it is still worth checking out. If you are a fan of Zappa's work, you will enjoy the album even more; if you are not, Them or Us can be an excellent introduction to his music style.

In conclusion, Them or Us is a remarkable album that showcases Frank Zappa's exceptional musicianship. The combination of rock, jazz, and classical genres creates a unique sound that is enjoyable to listen to. The best songs, most innovative parts, and criticism indicate that the album is not without flaws, but it is still worth checking out. If you are a fan of Zappa's work, you will enjoy the album even more; if you are not, Them or Us can be an excellent introduction to his music style.