DookOfProons wrote:
Thanks for the replies - some food for thought. MOFO two disc looks the most interesting, but it offends me that they felt the need to rip off the fans in this way.
The way they explained it was exactly the opposite. Realizing that not everybody could readily afford the massive and beautiful 4-disc set the zft opted to also release the 2 disc version that more could afford and included unique tracks to that release so that even the poorer consumers could 'get a taste' and have something uniquely collected. The extra tracks are pretty special (imho) and this 2disc version might also be an easier way to introduce to newer customers that might otherwise balk at a big boxset to get their feet wet without being obligated to make the total plunge. The problem with this idea was that the 2disc version was pricey even by zft norms.
The Beat the Boots sets are otherwise available, mostly in more original contexts (and for free in the last decade). Seeing how wide-ranging Frank's music and the touring bands etc. were, however, those shows that the Beat the Boot sets are drawn from, remain pretty well representative and/or standout recordings of many of the various ensembles (even if they didn't sound so great production-wise on the BTB releases). So the dates on those BTB sets are worth seeking out for oft-times rapturous listening enjoyment. "Get the big pieces!"
Quaudiophiliac is a unique document collecting unique mixes that simply can't sound better elsewhere. "Chunga's Basement" is a unique item that should go into any Zappa fan's ears as often as possible. Wild Love and Waka-Jawaka must be heard in their surround sound splendour at least once. Heck, throw a block party, have your local theater put it on, sell beer and make a party out of it. It's a way of life.
The Deluxe version of Porn Wars on Understanding America is also pretty essential.
Congress Shall Make No Law should go to the Library of Congress and City Hall's across America Herself. But is it really necessary on most people's shelves? Meh. IMHO.
Whateverybodyelse said here is just as relevant also.