Frank Zappa – The Rehearsal Broadcast: Philadelphia 1988 (12-Inch Double-LP)

Frank Zappa’s final tour featuring his own band took place in 1988 to rapturous plaudits from fans and critics alike. Taking in US and European dates, the tour featured a 12-piece group which had a repertoire of over 100 (mostly Zappa) compositions.

One of the tour’s finest shows was played at The Tower Theatre, in Upper Darby Township, Pennsylvania, on 14 February 1988. The performance was broadcast locally on FM radio, and for which not just the full performance was included, but the rehearsals and sound check were likewise transmitted across the airwaves.

This fascinating double album showcases both the live rehearsal broadcast, alongside selected highlights from that evening’s stellar set. A unique feature of this particular date was the audience request section, during which the band played numbers chosen by audience members.

Featured tracks include Zappa classics such as Peaches en Regalia and Montana, a unique cover of Led Zeppelin’s iconic Stairway to Heaven, and much more.

Track Listing

Side One

1. Synclavier (1:46) *
2. Sleep Dirt (2:35) *
3. Sofa (4:51) *
4. The Girl of Ipanema (1:11) *
5. Zoot Allures (3:32) *

Side Two

1. Guitar Solo, Part 1 (5:15) *
2. Guitar Solo, Part 2 (6:11) *
3. Guitar Solo, Part 3 (4:12) *
4. Guitar Solo, Part 4 (2:00) *

Side Three

1. FZ Conducts the Audience (6:28) **
2. The Closer You Are (A cappella) (2:44) **
3. Montana (4:00) **
4. Why Don’t You Like Me? (2:26) **
5. Who Needs the Peace Corps? (3:04) **

Side Four

1. King Kong (15:49) **
2. Stairway to Heaven (8:30) **
3. Peaches en Regalia (3:11) **

* Live rehearsal, recorded at the Tower Theater, in Upper Darby Township, PA, 14 February 1988

** Live in concert, recorded at the Tower Theater, in Upper Darby Township, PA, 14 February 1988

Format: Vinyl / 12” Album

No of Discs: 2

Label: Parachute

Catalogue No: PARA365LP

Barcode: 0803343243413

Release Date: 12 Feb 2021