Frank Zappa

While many bands use Halloween as an excuse to promote their "weird" and/or "eccentric" sides, few will ever be as innately odd as orchestral rock genius Frank Zappa. Wisely recording his two shows at NYC's Palladium on All Hallow's Eve, circa 1981, The Torture Never Stops isn't just unusual and absolutely crazy, it's the perfect representation of Zappa's most cohesive pre-elder statesman status. To put things into context, capturing him at the onset of that prestigious status, these smashed together gigs, appearing as one, showcase material just prior to the release of revered effort You Are What You Is. That's a time when newbie guitarist Stevie Vai was getting his "big break" in the business, thanks to an afro-sporting, hirsute-faced man performing songs such as "Black Napkins," "Montana," "Broken Hearts are for Assholes," "The Meek Shall Inherit Nothing" and a host of other what-the-fuck-is-he-singing-about? ditties. As expected, while much of this DVD features Zappa's natural guitar wanking and talk-show host demeanour when solely singing, the coupling of stellar musicianship, an unforgettable set and obvious enthusiasm on the part of the band makes for an incredibly fun experience. Close shots, perfect sound and even a bit of camera play from Zappa ensure the DVD's entirety is fun, while rarity extras ― live tracks "Teen Age Prostitute" and "City Of Tiny Lights," coupled with the video for "You Are What You Is" ― make The Torture Never Stops a Zappa masochist's wet dream.