This album "Bongo Fury" is the album released by Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart in 1975. The live portions were recorded on 20 & 21 May 1975 at the Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin, Texas. Studio tracks were recorded in January 1975 (during the sessions which produced One Size Fits All and much of Studio Tan).
No Title on the album front cover, yellow/brown discreet label
Matrix code: DS 2234 - 31936 IB
In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of music, certain collaborations stand out as unique and groundbreaking. One such extraordinary alliance occurred in 1975 when two visionaries of experimental rock, Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart, joined forces to create the album "Bongo Fury". Released as a 12" vinyl LP, this record showcases the raw energy and unparalleled creativity of these two musical titans.
"Bongo Fury" captures a live recording of Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart, backed by Zappa's band at the time, The Mothers of Invention. The live portions were meticulously recorded on 20th and 21st May 1975 at the legendary Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin, Texas. Additionally, several studio tracks were incorporated, which were originally recorded in January 1975 during the sessions that birthed Zappa's albums "One Size Fits All" and "Studio Tan".
As you hold the vinyl LP in your hands, you'll notice the absence of a title on the front cover. Instead, a yellow/brown discreet label graces the album, enhancing its enigmatic appeal. The cover design of "Bongo Fury" was masterfully crafted by Cal Schenkel, an artist renowned for his collaborations with Frank Zappa. Schenkel's unique visual aesthetic perfectly complements the musical eccentricities found within the grooves of this remarkable album.
The captivating photographs featured on the album were taken by John Williams, capturing the energy and dynamism of the live performances. Williams successfully freezes moments in time, allowing us to glimpse the intensity and sheer joy that emanated from the stage during those memorable nights in Texas.
The roster of musicians on "Bongo Fury" reads like a who's who of exceptional talent. Frank Zappa takes on vocal duties while showcasing his virtuosic guitar skills. Captain Beefheart, a musician known for his idiosyncratic style and poetic lyrics, lends his distinctive vocals, saxophone, and harmonica to the album. Denny Walley, an accomplished slide guitarist, adds his own vocal contributions to the mix.
The rhythm section on "Bongo Fury" is nothing short of extraordinary. Tom Fowler handles the bass duties while showcasing his skills as a dancer, infusing the performances with a visually striking element. Terry Bozzio and Chester Thompson, both renowned drummers, provide a solid foundation, driving the music forward with their impeccable timing and creativity.
George Duke, a virtuoso keyboardist and vocalist, brings his prodigious talent to the album, adding layers of depth and complexity to the compositions. Napoleon Murphy Brock, a saxophonist and vocalist, adds his unique voice to the sonic tapestry, contributing to the album's rich texture. Bruce Fowler, a talented trombonist and dancer, adds an additional visual element to the live performances, captivating the audience with his movements.
The synergy between Zappa, Beefheart, and the rest of The Mothers of Invention is palpable throughout "Bongo Fury". The album showcases their shared love for improvisation, complex arrangements, and unbridled musical exploration. Songs like "Debra Kadabra", "Muffin Man", and "Poofter's Froth Wyoming Plans Ahead" highlight the sheer audacity and virtuosity of these musicians, pushing the boundaries of rock music with their fearless experimentation.
"Bongo Fury" stands as a testament to the adventurous spirit of Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart. It is a testament to their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and their refusal to be confined by genre or convention. This album remains a beloved gem in the vast discography of both musicians, continuing to captivate listeners with its unparalleled musicality and boundary-pushing compositions.
Jazz Fusion, Prog Rock
DISCREET DS 2234 / 31,936
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1975 Made in USA
The album "Bongo Fury" was recorded Live at: Armadillo World Headquarters, Austin, Texas, 20 & 21 May 1975. The Record Plant, Los Angeles
Cal Schenkel - Album Cover Design
John Williams - Photographer
Frank Zappa – vocals, guitar
Denny Walley – vocals, slide guitar
Tom Fowler – bass, dancer
Terry Bozzio – drums
Chester Thompson – drums
Captain Beefheart – vocals, saxophone, harmonica
Captain Beefheart (Full-name: Don Van Vliet ) Captain Beefheart was the pseudonym of Don Van Vliet (1941-2010), an American musician, singer, and artist. He was best known as the frontman of the experimental rock group Captain Beefheart and His Magic Band, which he formed in the 1960s. Captain Beefheart's music was characterized by its eclectic and unconventional style, blending elements of blues, avant-garde, and psychedelic rock. He was known for his distinctive and often abstract vocals, as well as his innovative approach to composition and arrangement. Captain Beefheart retired from music in the 1980s to focus on painting and died in 2010 from multiple sclerosis.
The origin of Captain Beefheart's stage name is uncertain, but there are several theories. According to one story, it was inspired by a passing comment made by a friend about a drawing that Don Van Vliet (Captain Beefheart) had created. The friend reportedly said the drawing looked like a "captain's hat" and the "beef heart" of a steer. Another theory is that the name was a reference to a fictional character created by Van Vliet, who was depicted as a bluesman with a heart made of beef. However, Van Vliet himself was often cryptic and evasive when asked about the origin of his stage name, adding to the mystery surrounding it.
Don Van Vliet was born in Glendale, Los Angeles, California, United States on 15/01/1941. He was the first child of Glen Alonzo Vliet 27/06/1909 and Willie Sue Warfield 03/09/1913.
When he was 25 years old, his father Glen Alonzo Vliet died (10/02/1966). When he was 66 years old, his mother Willie Sue Warfield died (20/02/2007).
On 17/12/2010, he died in Arcata, Humboldt, California, United States when he was 69 years old. In Dec 2010, he was buried in Trinidad Cemetery, Trinidad, Humboldt, California, United States.
George Duke – keyboards, vocals
Napoleon Murphy Brock – saxophone, vocals
Bruce Fowler – trombone, dancer
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
Yellow Colour DISCREET DS 2234 ( 31,937 ) Record Label Details: Made In USA ℗ 1975 Warner Brothers Records, Inc.