Zappa begins to find his form in his enjoyable 2nd outing
by Reviewed on July 25th, 1998
Absolutely Free is uneasy to listen to at first, but given time you'll learn to love the madness contained within The Mother's 2nd album. It's silly, risque, abrasive yet surprisingly gentle when it wants to be. In contrast to The Mother's debut album Freak Out, the band's playing is more proficient, and Zappa's great guitar playing actually gets a chance to shine through on some tracks. This album is all over the place, musically speaking, but is highly entertaining nonetheless. The sound recording isn't quite up to scratch to his later recordings, but this is forgiveable, as the outright abstract humour and concept flow of the piece takes precedence, taking you on a musical and sociological ride through the dark recesses of Zappa's twisted mind. There are many highlights on this early release, including the lyrically hilarious "Duke of Prunes", the totally off-the-wall "Call any Vegetable" and the magnum opus mini-opera "Brown Shoes Don't Make It" which really has to be heard to be believed. All in all, this stands among my more preferred early FZ/MOI albums. Others may tend to disagree, but remember - if you're in for a little adventure, something more bizarre than usual, Absolutely Free is Absolutely Fab (sorry about the pun...or whatever you call it.)
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