merc13's Full Review: 200 Motels by The Mothers Of Invention
I received the 200 Motels CD set for Christmas a few years ago and it is certainly one of the best Zappa albums I own. 200 Motels is Zappa’s only movie actually released, and the movie itself is quite good too. Just expect to be visually assaulted with very odd things. Zappa put together an excellent sound track to his movie, he even got the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to join in. Combine that with the digital remastering of this set and you have one excellent combination of talent and sound.
The average person wouldn’t think the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra would sound its best playing something written by Frank Zappa, notorious rock star. What they obviously don’t realize is that Zappa was a creative genius. I believe Zappa really nailed it, I love almost every track on this album. From the instrumentals of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, to the classic guitar rock and roll style of The Mothers, 200 Motels makes a great complement to any Zappa fanatics’ collection.
200 Motels, movie and soundtrack, was based on the groups touring experience. Hence the name, 200 Motels. On the first CD Zappa expresses what he feels about touring, and it isn’t so positive. With song names like: Semi-Fraudulent/Direct-From-Hollywood Overture, This Town Is A Sealed Tuna Sandwich, and Redneck Eats, who could tell right? ;) While I’m not sure if it captures what most musicians feel like on the road, it makes for some great music. While on the second CD, Zappa seems to be trying to talk aspiring musicians out of attempting to become famous. With song titles like: Does This Kind Of Life Look Interesting To You?, What Will This Evening Bring Me This Morning, and I'm Stealing The Towels, Zappa seems to be throwing up more of the negative side of being a famous rock and roll musician.
Finally, I think this two CD set is absolutely great, and I would recommend it for anyone who loves Zappa or wants to sample Zappa’s music. You can also look deeper into the music and see how Zappa actually feels about being a rock and roll musician. Don’t forget, if you do enjoy the soundtrack, check out the movie by the same name.
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.