Wednesday, January 21, 2026

HENRY KAISER'S QUARTERLY SHOW

The latest edition of Henry Kaiser's Quarterly Show has some great topics, not to mention Henry's version of FZ's 'Outside Now' at the end.


0:00 INTRO True Temperament HK Partscaster with VEGA-TREM
1:22 HK TALK Koll Superior with HIPSHOT TREM
2:50 ENTER BLACK HOLE 
7:28 HK’S IMPRESSIONS OF RYPDAL’S TAKE ON LIGETI
9:24 KEEP IT LIKE THAT (TIGHT)
14:20 HK TALK
15:56 HOMAGE TO HENDRIX
19:25 EACH DAY WE GO TO OUR WORK IN THE HOPE OF DISCOVERING
23:21 HK REMEMBERS BOB WEIR + THE VALENTINES IN FUKUOKA 
31:36 TICKET TO ETERNITY FOR BOB WEIR
39:49 HK TALK ABOUT THE BAND MU
41:28 A’INT NO BLUES
47:25 WRITE IF YOU FIND WORK HK
52:43 THRENODY TO THE VICTIMS OF THE STRATOSPHERE BOOGIE
58:25 AROUND THE PLYNTH
1:05:54 GIACINTO SCELSI AT THE PLACE FOR FUN
1:11:21 IF HK’S BLUE KLEIN GUITAR COULD TALK
1:17:35 TRIO OF GHOSTS
1:22:15 LIVE BACKWARDS GUITAR WITH 1970’S L.A. COUNTRY ROCK
1:26:35 THE OLD VJP AGAIN
1:30:11 HK END TALK
1:31:25 OUTSIDE NOW


Tuesday, January 20, 2026

NEW RELEASE BY MEN & VOLTS

 There's a new release by Men & Volts : "Footlights Theater",

recorded in concert in 1985, at the Footlights Theater in Jamaica Plain, MA.


Monday, January 19, 2026

MATS / MORGAN - MAKE MATS / MORGAN GREAT AGAIN

  • Mats / Morgan: Make Mats/Morgan Great Again
        (2026, cd, Sweden, m.rec 009)
Last year, Mats and Morgan surprised us by doing a live stream concert entitled "Make Mats/Morgan Great Again".
An incredibly intense and beautiful concert with lots of familiar tunes.
The audio was made available on Bandcamp and the video is up on YouTube, but for the aficionados, the recording has now been made available on CD as well.

It looks great and it sounds even better.
The (cardboard fold-out packaged) CD is a limited edition, so don't hesitate.


MOONJUNE FESTIVAL - - - JULY 22 - 25, 2026 - - - TERAMO, ITALY



GRETCHEN MENN TRIO WITH SPECIAL GUEST DANIELE GOTTARDO

Here's Gretchen Menn with her trio, plus special guest (husband) Daniele Gottardo, paying tribute to Jeff Beck...
(Sweetwater Music Hall - 4/7/2023)

-- info: Jan van Kemenade

DANIELE GOTTARDO - FRENZY OF ECSTASY

  • Daniele Gottardo: Frenzy Of Ecstasy
        (2010, download / streaming, --, bandcamp)
        (2010, cdr-on-demand, --, amazon)
"Frenzy Of Ecstasy" was Italian guitar player and composer Daniele Gottardo's debut album.
Released in 2010 on digital music platforms.

Instrumental, lyrical rock.
This is superb.
Love it.

Check it out !!


-- info & more: Jan van Kemenade

OCTURN / PIERRE VAN DORMAEL

The late Belgian guitar player and composer Pierre Van Dormael founded the Nasa Na band in the late eighties / early ninetees.
A few years later, Nasa Na would evolve into Aka Moon...

Pierre also worked very closely with the Octurn ensemble.
Their "North Country Suite" album / collaboration (from 2007) is a joy to listen to !

Modern jazz, ladies and gentlemen...


-- info & more: Danny Mathys

JANN KLOSE

from GlassOnyon PR

Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter Jann Klose Announces New 2026 Tour Dates

Just back from performing in his former hometown of Hamburg, Germany, Jann Klose is heading to Los Angeles, CA for several performances. On 1/23 He will be on the Martin Guitar Stage at the NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center as well as a show at Trip Santa Monica on 1/24 and a house show in LA on 1/25.

Jann is finishing work on his eighth studio album due for release in June of 2026. He is once again partnering up with “Surrender” producer Marcus Dembinski. Several guest artists are to appear on the album including Everett Bradley (Bon Jovi, Seal), Marcella Detroit (Shakespears Sister, Eric Clapton), Rachel Flowers (Dweezil Zappa), Alphonso Horne (Late Show with Stephen Colbert) and more to be announced.

Both Marcella Detroit and Rachel Flowers will be joining Jann for his set on January 23rd at 2 PM on the Martin Guitar Stage at the NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA.

Jann Klose’s latest single “When I’m With You” exploded on YouTube with the official music video passing 150,000 views. Directed by Texan-born filmmaker Sam Casey, the video is shot in true stop motion on location in New York City.

Tour Dates:
1/23: Martin Guitar Stage at the NAMM Show, Anaheim, CA
1/24: The Trip Bar, Santa Monica, CA w/ Marky Lennon & Friends
1/25: Private Event, Los Angeles, CA
3/15: House Concert, Fort Myers, FL
4/17: One Marylebone, London, UK
5/10: Port Washington Public Library, Port Washington, NY
5/25: House Concert, Youngstown, OH
5/29: Private Event, New York, NY
5/30: The Bitter End, New York, NY
5/31: The Bitter End, New York, NY
6/06: The Sellersville Theater, Sellersville, PA w/ Craig Thatcher
9/26: Brick Hill House Concerts, Orleans, MA
9/27: House Concert, Shrewsbury, MA

Sunday, January 18, 2026

BOB WEIR & FRANK ZAPPA

Looking for a link between Bob Weir and Frank Zappa, Jan van Kemenade came up with the following:

On one of the Bobby & the Midnites albums, Essra Mohawk is credited as co-author.

Nice one.

Here's the track in question, 'Haze' :


DET SKANDALØSE ORKESTER NEWSFLASH

 A promising newsflash from Det Skandaløse Orkester

2025 was the best concert year ever for us, and it all culminated with the finale at Kvarteret in Bergen. It must be the best concert we have ever delivered together with the audience, and it was unanimously awarded a 6 out of 6. We got some great audio and video recordings, and now we are planning to release a live album and concert film sometime this year.

Here's what they sounded like at Zappanale


NEKTAR - MISSION TO MARS

Here's the official video for Nektar's 'Mission To Mars', taken from the 2024 album with the same name.

The band started in the early 1970's and is, apparently, still going strong.


EIDON - EKIALDEA

Another interesting piece by Eidon:
'Ekialdea'


PEDRITO MARTININEZ - ANTONIO SANCHEZ - MICHAEL LEAGUE

Elipsis unites three distinct musical voices, each rooted in tradition while pushing boldly into the future.

Master percussionist Pedrito Martínez weaves Afro-Cuban heritage with innovation; drummer and composer Antonio Sánchez brings boundary-breaking experience across jazz, film, and contemporary music; and Michael League, founder of Snarky Puppy and acclaimed producer, anchors the trio’s expansive vision. Together, they create future folklore — music that honors its roots while imagining what comes next.

Their eponymous album is out.

Here's a recording of the trio at the North Sea Jazz Festival, 7 years ago:


MERIDIAN ARTS ENSEMBLE - THE ZAPPA HOUSE CONCERT

  • Meridian Arts Ensemble: The Zappa House Concert
        (2026, download / streaming, --, digital music platforms)

The unlikely story of the MAE and FZ can be found here:
https://www.meridianartsensemble.com/zappa-house-concert

And it all amounted to some of the best performances of Frank Zappa's music, spread across various Meridian Arts Ensemble albums.
And that was even before the MAE released "The Zappa House Concert".

Pieces by Scarlatti, King Crimson, by the MAE members, and, of course, a fine set of Frank Zappa compositions.
As the liner notes stated 'Frank’s longtime engineer Greg “Marqueson” Coy set up a single microphone in front of us and recorded the concert. That recording is what you hear on this disc.'

I guess this is one what could call an audience recording, but it sounds really good.
Beautiful.

It's being released through several digital music platforms, and I do hope that there will be a CD release as well.

And it includes Joe Newman's (= Rudy Schwartz Project) arrangement of the Black Page !!

-- info & more: Harald Haering

THE MOO-AH FESTIVAL IS BACK !!

Most excellent news from the U.K.: The Moo-Ah Festival is back.

Scheduled for 20 & 21 March 2026, an incredible line-up has just been announced:

  • John Etheridge's ZAPPATISTAS
  • TREACHEROUS CRETINS
  • THE MUFFIN MEN
  • GABBA ZAPPA HEY!
plus
  • FRED HÄNDL
  • and TURBULATOR

https://www.festivalmoo-ah.com/


Saturday, January 17, 2026

NEW RELEASE BY JOHN TABACCO

Well, two actually.

"Igram Reimagined"


"A Little Of This - A Little Of That"

ALBERT MARCOEUR - BUS 24

 "Bus 24", an animated movie to which Albert Marcoeur provided the music.
From 2006.
Out on DVD & also to be enjoyed on YouTube.


KG&TLW

The latest King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard album artwork is a nice tribute to Grateful Dead's "Europe 75" album (from 1972).

-


THE PAWPAW ORCHESTRA - ECHIDNA'S ARF (OF YOU)

Here's a beautiful version of FZ's 'Echidna's Arf (Of You)' by the Pawpaw Orchestra.
Only on YouTube ?


THE RYELANDT TRIO PERFORMS THE MUSIC OF FRANK ZAPPA

Ryelandt Trio plays Zappa
On February 7, 2026, in Roeselare BE.

https://www.toonvzw.be/tickets-23-24/


OSSI DURI PLAYS ZAPPA

Ossi Duri
Frank Zappa tribute concert
March 28, 2026
Via Bussoleno 50, 10093 Collegno (TO), Italy



SUN RA DOCUMENTARY IN ANTWERP BE

Next weekend, the Pulse Festival in Antwerp, BE, will host a screening of the
"Sun Ra - Space Is The Place" documentary.

https://pulsefestival.be/zaterdag

-- info: Dirk Verschaeve

WARREN CUCCURULLO

Last month, Warren Cuccurullo released two new albums: "Synthia" and "Synthia Vol. II".
Download / streaming only.

  • Warren Cuccurullo: Synthia
        (2025, download/streaming, --, digital music platforms)
  • Warren Cuccurullo: Synthia Vol. II
        (2025, download/streaming, --, digital music platforms)

Instrumental electronic, synthesizer pieces.
Contemporary classical music.

You can check them out at:
https://warrencuccurullo.com/discography/solo-collaborations/

-- info: Harald Haering

"ALICE COOPER - WELCOME TO MY NIGHTMARE" BY DAVE THOMPSON

Dave Thompson wrote "Alice Cooper - Welcome To My Nightmare".
The book got published in 2012.

Also out as an e-book.
Jan added that Frank Zappa is mentioned 57 times in the book.

-- info: Jan van Kemenade

FRANK ZAPPA - - - YELLOW SHARK - - - 1992 - - - BEHIND THE SCENES

Frank Zappa, Yellow Shark, 1992 - Behind the scenes with Cinevideogroep 


DWEEZIL ZAPPA'S 2024 08 03 CONCERT UP ON YOUTUBE

An audience recording of Dweezil Zappa's 2024 08 03 Los Angeles concert is up on YouTube...

The complete three hour show.
With special guests Phil X and Chad Wackerman !!


JAZZ STATION BIG BAND - URBAN WATERS

  • Jazz Station Big Band: Urban Waters
        (2025, cd, Belgium, step by records sbr011)
Brussels-based Jazz Station Big Band recently released "Urban Waters", their fifth release.

Featuring top musicians and beautiful compositions, this is a must-hear for every fan of big band music.

Released on the newly founded (2023) Step By Records label.

-- info: Danny Mathys

Friday, January 16, 2026

J. M. SMIG'S FUCKING PUMPKIN MUSIC PLAYLIST

 A message from J. M. Smig :

I was asked as to what Frank Zappa songs I would use as sexual accompaniment so I came up with a full playlist good for a 3 hour session.

Fucking Pumpkin Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/playlist/pl.u-gxblgd1Txm6meAd


NEW RELEASE BY KING GIZZARD AND THE LIZARD WIZARD

  • King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard: Europe 25’
        (2026, 3lp, --, the reverberation appreciation society)

It just doesn't stop. Another King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard release.

Limited trifold green, blue & yellow splattered vinyl 3LP.

It's another release in the "Bootlegger" series.
You can download the files from the KG&TLW website and produce your own release if you agree with the deal: 

If anyone wants to release these albums, you’re free to do so.
Below you’ll find links to audio master files and cover art. Feel free to get creative with it if you like - it’s yours.
Only deal is you’ve gotta send us some of them to sell on pdoomrecords.com - whatever you feel is a fair trade is cool with us.
Ideas: double LPs, 7”, remix, reimagined cover art, bizarre looking wax, live show box sets, tapes. Or keep it simple - that’s totally ok.


MERIDIAN ARTS ENSEMBLE UPDATE

"The Zappa House Concer" is out:

https://www.qobuz.com/be-nl/album/the-zappa-house-concert-meridian-arts-ensemble/oe5zukppyam5b

Big Round Records adds:

Release Date: January 16, 2026
Catalog #: BR8998
Format: Digital & Physical

I assume "Physica" will be a CD or LP release. Or both.

ALBERT MARCOEUR

On the menu today:

  • Albert Marcoeur: Sports Et Percussions
        (1994, cd, France, disques concord )
Released over thirty years ago, "Sports Et Percussions" is a great introduction to the music of Albert Marcoeur.
It may be rather hard to find as the CD sold out quite a while ago, but the search is worth the effort.


And next up:

  • Albert Marcoeur & Le Quatuor Béla: Si Oui, Oui. Sinon Non
        (2017, cd, France, béla label )
One of Albert's more recent albums.
Number 11 in his discography.
Music performed by Le Quatuor Béla string quartet.
Beautiful.

Here's a live piece with Le Quator Béla:



Discography

Albert Marcoeur: Albert Marcoeur
(1974, lp, France, atlantic)

Albert Marcoeur: Album A Colorier
(1976, lp, France, atlantic)

Albert Marcoeur: Armes & Cycles
(1979, lp, France, philips)

Albert Marcoeur: Celui Ou Y’a Joseph
(1984, lp, France, le chant du monde)

Albert Marcoeur: Ma Vie Avec Elles
(1990, cd, France, ballemont productions)

Albert Marcoeur: Sports Et Percussions
(1994, cd, France, disques concord )

Albert Marcoeur: M.A.R. Et Coeur Comme…
(1998, cd, France, f.r.p. music amc1)

Albert Marcoeur: Albert Marcoeur Presente
(1999, 4cd, France, baillemont productions)
= re-issue of the first four albums

Albert Marcoeur: Plusiers Cas De Figure
(2001, cd, France, label frères m8)

Albert Marcoeur: L’Apostrophe
(2005, cd, France, label frères m9)

Albert Marcoeur: Travaux Pratiques
(2008, cd, France, label frères m10)

Albert Marcoeur & Le Quatuor Béla: Si Oui, Oui. Sinon Non
(2017, cd, France, béla label )

Albert Marcoeur: V’là Autre Chose !
(2025, cd, France, label frères m12)


Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN ARTS ENSEMBLE'S "THE ZAPPA HOME CONCERT" TO BE RELEASED TOMORROW

Meridian Arts Ensemble - The Zappa Part of The Zappa Home Concert, 1996

Album digitally released January 16, 2026



LA JUNGLE ANNOUNCED A NEW ALBUM

LA JUNGLE shifts into third gear and treats itself to a two-drum-kit go-fast. The duo becomes a trio with its seventh studio album, "An Order Of Things". Nine tracks written by six hands in Mons, on the banks of La Trouille — the unsettling river — and recorded in the woods of Normandy.


Wednesday, January 14, 2026

OCTOBER EQUUS

Enjoying October Equus, the Spanish RIO / prog rock / avant-garde rock band.

October Equus: October Equus ( 2006, cd)

October Equus: Saturnal ( 2011, cd)


Monday, January 12, 2026

CHAD WACKERMAN SHARES ZAPPA STORIES

 

THE SIXMILLIONDOLLAR GUITAR TRIBUTE TO BOB WEIR


MORGAN ÅGREN - BATTERIE DELUXE

In 2015, Morgan Ågren released "Batterie Deluxe" on Bandcamp, but also on CD (in Japan) and on LP (in Europe).

I bought the CD at the time, but with the upcoming 'Remastered' version, I couldn't resist and got the LP as well.

  • Morgan Ågren: Batterie Deluxe
        (2015, lp, Europe, transubstans records transv31)
So beautiful...


Sunday, January 11, 2026

JOHN MAYALL - BLUES FROM LAUREL CANYON

  • John Mayall: Blues From Laurel Canyon
        (1968, lp, UK, decca)
Listening to "Blues From Laurel Canyon"...

While on vacation in L.A., English blues guitarist John Mayall stayed at Frank Zappa’s Log Cabin for a couple of weeks, which was at 2401 Laurel Canyon.
John’s “Blues From Laurel Canyon” album got recorded shortly thereafter and refers to the people he met during his L.A. visit.
Track number 4 on side A, ‘2401’, refers to the Log Cabin.

There's a hero living at 2401
And all around a family circus in the sun
Got his Mothers working while you're having fun
Trying to change the system, many things that must be done
Where did Moon go? Better call a GTO
In the red room Pam is planning where to go
Gail and Pauline, who is prowling round your door?
A maniac, The Raven. Could he have his gun back? No!
2401, got myself a place to stay
On the railroad, Kansas nearer every day
Miss Christine cooking, looking very gay
How do you say a Thank You? How do you ever tear yourself away?

Issued on CD (for the first time) in 1989.
There was an Italian re-issue with different artwork. A supplement to an issue of "Il Grande Rock" magazine. In 1993.

Here's '2401' :


RECENT ADDITIONS - - - FRANK ZAPPA RELATED CDS FROM JAPAN

The Mothers Of Invention's "Uncle Meat" on the Oldays record label:


The Fraternity Of Man's eponymous album, feat. Elliot Ingber and incl. F. Zappa's 'Oh No, I Don't Believe It'; produced by Tom Wilson.
On the Big Pink label, from 2017

and

Wild Man Fischer's "An Evening With...", produced by FZ, feat. Art Tripp, artwork by Cal Schenkel.
On Wasabi Records, from 2020


EIDON - FUYU NO TAIYO

A new piece by Eidon: '冬の太陽 (Fuyu no taiyō)'


Saturday, January 10, 2026

THE STINKFOOT ORCHESTRA IN CONCERT IN ARCATA ON JANUARY 24

Attention Humboldt County! Come see the 14 piece Stinkfoot Orchestra at Humbrews in Arcata January 24th, featuring Zappa Alumni Napoleon Murphy Brock! We will perform Frank Zappa’s music the way it was meant to be played! 6 horns, 4 singers, tuned percussion, and a tight rhythm section combined together to bring the magic of Zappa’s music to life!



PIANO EXTRAVAGANZA

October 3, 2026 will see a "Piano Extravaganza" concert in The Hague, NL.
It will feature Fred Händl performing the music of Frank Zappa, and more.


THE GÖDEL COMPLEX - - - THE MAKING OF 'DOTS'

New material by The Gödel Complex
  • Etienne Plumer: drums
  • Antoine Guenet: keyboards
  • Michel Delville: guitar, synth
  • Laurent Blondiau: trumpet, electronics


DWEEZIL ZAPPA HAS JUST RELEASED AN UPGRADE OF HIS "DWEEZIL ZAPPA PLAYS APOSTROPHE (') LIVE!" VIDEO

It's called the "Ultimate SUPER FAN Concert Cut"

It's available from Dweezil's website.
Those who already own the "Collectors Cut VIP" (from a couple of weeks ago) can upgrade.

https://www.dweezilzappa.com/concert

Ultimate SUPER FAN Concert Cut Bundle - Includes over 4 hours of content!
  • Ownership of your very own downloadable copy of every exclusive item
  • 21 song - 150 minute concert
  • 3 songs Featuring Frank Zappa on screen
  • 5 songs featuring George Duke playing with my band
  • 4 Additional band Encore Songs (20 minutes)
  • Mini-Documentary Featuring George Duke, Dweezil and his band.
  • Apostrophe Concert Cut - 48 minutes - All 9 songs from Apostrophe
  • First 250 SUPER FANS will have their name included in the Founders List on the Apostrophe Concert page on dweezilzappa.com
Bonus Materials:
  • Dweezil's Guitar Rig Rundown
  • Interview with Dweezil's guitar tech - Thomas Nordegg
  • Fan Reaction Video


FRANK ZAPPA - MY GUITAR

  • Frank Zappa: My Guitar
        (1994, cd, Spain, r.c.s. libre & grandi opere)
A rather bizarre CD arrived last week: a CD entitled "My Guitar", which according to the info that I could find, once was a supplement to issue 28 of a Spanish magazine called "Los Grandes Del Rock".

The booklet adds: "Live material from New York (1970) and Boston (1968)", which probably makes it some sort of early 'radio show album'.

1. Little House I Used To Live In / Penis Dimension / Would You Like A Snack? / Holiday In Berlin / Cruising For Burgers
2. My Guitar Wants To Kill Your Mama
3. Uncle Meat / King Kong
4. Big Leg Emma


Friday, January 9, 2026

SNARKY PUPPY - RECURRENT

From "Somni" 

 

STINKFOOT ORCHESTRA & NMB TO PERFORM IN PETALUMA CA ON JANUARY 23



 

GONG ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM "BRIGHT SPIRIT", SET FOR RELEASE ON 13TH MARCH 2026

from GlassOnyonPR

Psychedelic institution Gong have announced their new album Bright Spirit today, set for release on 13th March on the Kscope label. The news comes alongside a new single and video for the track ‘The Wonderment’. Speaking on the announcement, frontman Kavus Torabi shared –

“Structured around modulating glissando guitar and a pulsating analogue synth sequence, The Wonderment finds Gong in deeply meditative form. A mystical and explorative journey both inwards and outwards. Timeless and expansive, The Wonderment is another piece of the kaleidoscopic puzzle that makes up Bright Spirit. A healing charge of cosmic rays beamed out from deepest space. All is sound, all is love. Gong is one and one is you.”

'The Wonderment', from the upcoming album.

Back in November, Gong already released the album’s first single ‘Stars In Heaven’, a colourful and kaleidoscopic slab of the band’s signature cosmic rock.



Thursday, January 8, 2026

J. M. SMIG - LULLABIES FOR LUCI

From 2016, J. M. Smig's "Lullabies For Luci" collection:


ANDY MERTENS - SOFA

Andy Mertens (of Sheik Yerbouti) - 'Sofa'

l

FUN QUIZ BY RICK BEATO

"Can You Identify Famous Guitarists From A Single Note?"

This is crazy...


ICEBERG

Catalan progressive rock and jazz / fusion band Iceberg released five album between 1975 and 1979.
I stumbled upon a track from their latest album earlier today...
A fine discovery.

Here's 'Crisalide' from "Arc-En-Ciel":


NEW FRANK ZAPPA RADIO SHOW RELEASE ANNOUNCED

This week's winner in the category "There might be something wrong with this picture" goes to this new Radio Show Release:

"The Rock N' Roots Of Frank Zappa".
Due out in about a month.

transparent vinyl.
1988 live material.

Side A :
Bolero / Stink Foot / I Ain't Got No Heart / Love Of My Life / Chana In Da Bushwop

Side B :
Heavy Duty Judy / Disco Boy / Truck Driver Divorce / Watermelon In Easter Hay / Bobby Brown


Wednesday, January 7, 2026

JIM FIELDER

Jim Fielder played rhythm guitar with the Mothers Of Invention from fall 1966 through February 1967. He took part in the recording of the "Absolutely Free" album.

After The Mothers, Jim joined Buffalo Springfield with whom he recorded two albums.
In 1969, he joined Blood, Sweat &Tears.
The Woodstock performance of Blood, Sweat &Tears, with Jim Fielder on bass, got released part of the Rhino "Woodstock" box set (2019, 38 cd + blu-ray) and it was made available as a digital download, also in 2019.


Rumour has it that the recording was even issued on CD in 2021.

Side note: Lou Marine also recorded and toured with B, S & T:
https://popstockphoto.com/product-category/blood-sweat-and-tears-amsterdam-1973/page/2/

-- info: Jan van Kemenade

STEFANO BERTOLINO

'Black Napkins'
by Stefano Bertolino

 

'Inca Roads' guitar solo
by Stefano Bertolino

'Watermelon In Easter Hay'
by Stefano Bertolino

LAZULI ANNOUNCED A NEW ALBUM

NOUVELLE ANNÉE
NOUVEL ALBUM
NEW YEAR
NEW ALBUM
LAZULI

" Être et ne plus être "


Pre-order

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

ARTHUR BARROW - AT LAST

Arthur Barrow has just made 'At Last' available on Bandcamp.
It's another track from his 2003 "On Time" album.


EIDON - XENOMACHIE

'Xenomachìe'
by Eidon

 

STEPHANE GALLAND - - - KANDA TOURDATES

KANDA CONCERT DATES
  • 08.01.26 - CC Belgica, Dendermonde
  • 10.01.26 - Cinema Plaza, Duffel
  • 14.01.26 - Nova Express, Mechelen
  • 16.01.26 - Flagey, Elsene (wachtlijst)
  • 23.01.26 - Ha Concerts, Gent
  • 24.01.26 - CC Mol
  • 05.02.26 - CC CasinoKoksijde
  • 06.02.26 - KAAP, Brugge
  • 07.02.26 - Muziekcentrum N9, Eeklo
  • 10.02.26 - GC de Muze van Meise
  • 12.02.26 - Z33, Hasselt
  • 12.03.26 - CC De Velinx, Tongeren
  • 08.05.26 - C-mine, Genk

https://youtube.com/shorts/0zwtD_1H1dQ?si=xLipGLrTZVFxYhFq


PREVIEW OF THE NEW SOFT MACHINE ALBUM

Soft Machine - Thirteen (Release date 13 March 2026). Preview/Trailer.

To be released on John Etheridge's DYAD records - through Proper distribution on CD, 2 LP vinyl edition (with whole side of bonus tracks) and digital.
A special HQCD format will be released in Japan only by Moonjune / AIC Music Japan.



Monday, January 5, 2026

OMNESIA - DIRTY LOVE

Andrew's superb https://www.zappanews.co.uk/ website mentioned that Omnesia's recording of 'Dirty Love' could be found on digital music streaming services. 


Released on December 26, 2025, the track stands as the third single from their forthcoming album Omnesia: Future Vintage, due in February 2026, and it perfectly encapsulates the group’s fearless approach to genre, identity, and sonic experimentation.


NI TOURDATES

Ni tourdates

  • 08.01 Slow Club (FREIBURG – DE)
  • 09.01 Vera (GRONINGEN – NL)
  • 10.01 Slachthuis (HAARLEM – NL)
  • 11.01 Mezz (BREDA – NL)
  • 12.01 La Binchoise (BINCHE – BE)
  • 13.01 Muziekgieterij (MAASTRICHT – NL)
  • 14.01 Espace Noir (ST-IMIER – FR)
  • 15.01 Ziggy’s (TORINO – IT)
  • 20.01 Ojala Este Mi Bici (BARCELONA – SP)
  • 21.01 16 Toneladas (VALENCIA – SP)
  • 22.01 Barracudas Rock Bar (MADRID – SP)
  • 10.03 The Croft (BRISTOL – UK)
  • 11.03 The Lodge (MANCHESTER – UK)
  • 12.03 The Garage Attic (GLASGOW – SCT)
  • 13.03 JT Soar (NOTTINGHAM – UK)
  • 14.03 The Victoria (LONDON – UK)
  • 15.03 Daltons (BRIGHTON – UK)


ADRIAN BELEW

The latest Cherry Red newsletter mentioned an Adrian Belew compilation box set, to be released in March:

Adrian Belew: The Atlantic Years 1989-1992, 3CD Clamshell Box Set

27th March 2026
• 3CD REMASTERED CLAMSHELL BOX EDITION BY CELEBRATED MUSICIAN & SONGWRITER ADRIAN BELEW WHICH GATHERS ALL OF HIS RECORDINGS MADE FOR ATLANTIC RECORDS BETWEEN 1989 AND 1992.

• INCLUDES THE ALBUMS 'MR. MUSIC HEAD', 'YOUNG LIONS' AND 'INNER REVOLUTION'.

• WITH TWO RARE BONUS TRACKS.

• FEATURING GUEST CONTRIBUTIONS FROM DAVID BOWIE.

• INCLUDES BOOKLET WITH NEW ESSAY.


NI & VOJDI - SPLIT & DOUX VOL. 1

The Dur & Doux label has just announced a split 7" release by French band Ni (side A) and Slovakian band Vojdi (side B).

I thought it reason enough to investigate what Vojdi is all about.
An excellent decision, even if I say so myself.

Check this out !!


Sunday, January 4, 2026

SUZANNE VEGA - ICTUS - COLLEGIUM VOCALE GENT / PHILIP GLASS - EINSTEIN ON THE BEACH

  • Suzanne Vega, Ictus, Collegium Vocale Gent / Philip Glass: Einstein On The Beach
        (2025, 2cd, Belgium, vlek)

Narrated by Suzanne Vega and performed by the Belgian ICTUS ensemble and by vocal ensemble Collegium Vocale Gent, ‘Einstein on the Beach’ re-imagines Philip Glass and Robert Wilson’s influential (and divisive) 1976 opera as a 200-minute “minimalistic sound-bath”.

For some reason I missed this performance.
I may not be the biggest Philip Glass fan, but I love Ictus and I was wondering how Suzanne Vega would fit in, so I'm glad with this new release.


BELEDO & CHAD WACKERMAN

A message from the MoonJune Records label:

New York City based Uruguayan born multi-instrumentalist, predominantly a guitarist and pianist, BELEDO, will record a new studio album for MoonJune Records after two concerts in Los Angeles with
CHAD WACKERMAN (drums)
ANTHONY CRAWFORD (bass guitar)
NICK MANCINI (vibraphone)

January 14 - Los Angeles, CA
The Baked Potato, 2 shows

thebakedpotato.com/events/beledo-january-14-2026

January 15 - San Pedro, CA
Alva's Showroom

alvasshowroom.com/event/beledo-mechanism-featuring-chad-wackerman

BELEDO NEW ALBUM CROWDFUNDING

Following two above listed warm-up shows in Los Angeles, Beledo, Anthony Crawford, and Nick Mancini will gather at with Chad Wackerman at Chad's recording studio in Long Beach, California, to record a new album to be released by MoonJune Records between May and June of this year. For the occasion, Beledo prepared 4 short demo audio snippets that you can listen to on Bandcamp:

beledo.bandcamp.com/album/new-album-crowfunding

Beledo - electric guitar, electric bass, midi drums, keyboard, composer

These are just ideas, and each tune will be between 5 and 10 minutes long, in addition to several others that will be recorded. The collection of short audio clips serves the purpose of this crowdfunding campaign to help with travel expenses, car rental, accommodations, musicians, and studio fees.

beledo.bandcamp.com/merch


KEVIN KASTNING TO RELEASE TWO NEW ALBUMS

 Kevin Kastning, master of the multi string guitar, is about to release two new albums: "Codex I" and "Codex II".

Both albums feature Kevin on 30-string Contra-baritone guitar, 30-string Double Contraguitar, 26-string Double Sub-contraguitar, 24-string Double Sub-contraguitar, and 6-string guitar.


Kevin adds:

The compositions in the Codex series are some rather complex compositions involving new guitaristic techniques. Each piece on Codex I and Codex II was recorded live in the studio as one performance in a single take. There are no overdubs or edits.

My technique is such that I'm playing my doubleneck instruments with one hand on each neck. This facilitates simultaneous multiple lines and harmonic structures that are not otherwise possible. The recording setup on these instruments is very much in stereo. The doubleneck instruments are recorded such that the left neck is located in the left stereo channel, and the right neck is located in the right stereo channel. Listening with headphones provides a soundstage revealing which part is performed on which neck. Hearing the separate parts, the lines, the harmonic structures, and where they're originating, may provide clarity, and aid in the understanding of the compositions.

The result is astonishing.
Beautiful timbres and layered soundscapes, exuding a sense of wonderment and peace of mind.
"Codex I" and "Codex II" should be out on January 27.

Check out Kevin Kastning's musical output on Bandcamp !
Here's his collaboration with Mark Wingfield:


MORGAN ÅGREN - BATTERIE DELUXE

Soon to be released on CD, but one can already enjoy the Bandcamp download:
Morgan Ågren's remastered version of "Batterie Deluxe".

Originally released in 2015 and made available on LP in Europe and on CD in Japan, this is one exceptional release.
Superb drumming, beautiful melodies and guests who spice up things with their distinctive sound (just check out Neyveli Radhakrishna on violin on 'Isarn' !!).

Brilliant !


Saturday, January 3, 2026

THE CAPELLAS - LOVE PRAYER / ZIG ZAG WANDERER

  • The Capellas: Love Prayer / Zig Zag Wanderer
        (2025, download / streaming, --, bandcamp)
        (2025, 7”, France, disques rogue)
British band The Capellas recorded Don Van Vliet / Herb Bermann's 'Zig Zag Wanderer' and released it as the B-side for the 'Love Prayer' 7".
Out on the French Disques Rogue record label.

Psychedelic 60's pop !!


MINKIN-SHEMER HARPSICHORD DUO - CONVERSATIONS


  • Minkin-Shemer Harpsichord Duo: Conversations
        (2017, cd, France, omnibus classics)
Marina Minkin and David Shemer recorded as the Minkin-Shemer Harpsichord Duo. Their 2017 “Conversations” album presented pieces by contemporary composers, including ‘Ciaconne Alla Zappa’, composer Uri Brener's tribute to Frank Zappa

The liner notes mentioned:
‘Ciaconne Alla Zappa’ was commissioned and written in 2014 for the Minkin-Shemer Harpsichord Duo. The piece is, by definition, of a somewhat odd nature. It emerges and exists on the narrow boundary between the classical Renaissance form known as the “chaconne” with its characteristically repeating patterns and the sharp raw sound, typical of rock-music of the 20th century. The work is a tribute to one of the great musicians of the late 20th century, Frank Zappa; a modest homage to a great “musical law breaker”, whose contribution to the development of music is yet to be appreciated and understood.

o Ciaconne Alla Zappa (U. Brener) = tribute to Frank Zappa


PHILIP SANDERSON - SHARK FIN SOUP

  • Philip Sanderson: Shark Fin Soup
        (2025, cd, Austria, klanggalerie gg533)
"From a secret mountain top location a number of tracks by the Residents were broadcast into the far reaches of outer space with the hope that they might be received and understood by an Interplanetary Intelligence (IPI). As the tracks traveled across space and time the signals collided and combined with other musical broadcasts: opera, swing, fuzz rock, barbershop, etc till by the time the broadcast was received it was a veritable Shark Fin Soup – a mutant musical cornucopia played in ways even the Residents might not expect. The whole thing was reflected back to earth and captured one night on short wave by Philip Sanderson (Snatch Tapes/Storm Bugs). The tracks were then dis-arranged and with the help of the The Snatch Tapes Swingers, The Brontochorus and not least Chef D’Orchestre Arthur Ingot put down on disc for your listening pleasure."

I had to read it twice, but these liner notes do tell us what to expect: songs by The Residents, but reworked in quite surprising musical styles.
Great fun and an impressive example of musical craftmanship by Philip Anderson !

Packed in a beautiful fold-out cardboard sleeve. Another fine Residents related release on the Klanggalerie record label.


DIMITRI VASSILAKIS, MIRJAM WIESEMAN / PIERRE BOULEZ - PIERRE BOULEZ UND DAS KLAVIER

  • Dimitri Vassilakis, Mirjam Wiesemann / Pierre Boulez: Pierre Boulez Und Das Klavier
        (2012, 3 sacd, Germany, cybele)
The German Cybele record label released a series entitled "Künstler im Gespräch" (Artists in Conversation) around 2012.
One of the albums focused on Pierre Boulez' piano compositions.
The first part of the release presented the compositions, performed by Dimitri Vassilakis.
The second part had Mirjam Wiesemann in conversation with Pierre Boulez (January 2011), and with Dimitri Vassilakis (May 2011).

During the talk with Pierre Boulez, the collaboration with Frank Zappa got discussed. It lasted about a minute and a half and was track 11 on the second Super Audio CD.

BBSITTERS CLUB

  • BBsitters Club: Joel’s Picks Vol. 2
        (2024, cd, USA, hausu mountain)
The BBsitters Club are a four-piece, Chicago-based jamband / rock band.
They have three albums out, available on Bandcamp. Two are also available on CD.

"Joel's Picks Vol. 2", their latest one, presented a collection of live recordings, sourced from both audio and soundboard recordings.
The album caught my interest because in includes the BBsitter Club's version of Don Van Vliet's 'Kandy Korn'.

You can check it out on Bandcamp:


ALBERT MARCOEUR

On New Year's Eve, I immersed myself in the music of Albert Marcoeur.
A perfect way to end and start a year.
(although I had a nice family dinner as well).

Including the latest "V'là Autre Chose", Albert Marcoeur has released 12 albums.
All except one are available from his website.
Beautiful digipack CDs with extraordinary music.

Highly recommended.


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Friday, January 2, 2026

JOHN TABACCO - WHAT IS REAL ?



John Tabacco continues his A.I. adventures:

The tracks in this collection—whether crafted solely by my hand or in collaboration with A.I.—reflect the same creative process I’ve always followed with the groups I’ve recorded and produced. What is “real”? Reality is ultimately in the eyes and ears of the beholder. For me, this music is as genuine as anything I’ve made since I first pressed record on my Akai reel-to-reel back in 1979.


And as John is referring to his Akai reel-to-reel, let's revisit his "The Akai Years (1979-84)" album that he released over ten years ago.
Check out: 'The Captain Has A Sleepy Sinister Foot Dirt For Sale', track number 7.


DARKO THE SUPER SAMPLED FRANK ZAPPA ON HIS LATEST ALBUM

Darko The Super's brand-new "Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" album includes a track called 'Under The Silver Lake’. (track no. 6)
Give it a listen and see if you can recognize ‘How Could I Be Such A Fool’ (F. Zappa)

Oh how I love these kind of references... :-)


JUDY LEWIS RECORDED A FRANK ZAPPA TRIBUTE IN 2004

Judy Lewis released the "No Expectations" album in 2004.
It presented a composition entitled 'No Expectations', a tribute to Frank Zappa.


LEVITATION ORCHESTRA - SANCTUARY

  • Levitation Orchestra: Sanctuary
        (2025, download / streaming, --, bandcamp)
        (2025, lp, UK, 5db records)
"Sanctuary" is the third album by the London-based jazz/fusion collective "Levitation Orchestra".
A nice discovery.


EIDON - EVERGLADES

'Everglades'
by Eidon


Thursday, January 1, 2026

10TH EDITION OF THE GROUNDUP FESTIVAL TO BE HELD IN MARCH 2026


STEF KAMIL CARLENS - LIVE ON 2 METER SESSIONS

  • Stef Kamil Carlens: Live On 2 Meter Sessions
        (2025, cd, The Netherlands, coast to coast ctc-2167266)
2 Meter Sessies (2 Meter Sessions) is a Dutch music radio and television show presented by Jan Douwe Kroeske. Since 1987, this show has offered well-known and new artists the opportunity to give an insight into their songs in a smaller setting studio environment
 
https://www.2metersessies.nl/

Stef Kamil Carlens' "Live On 2 Meter Sessions" presents recordings by Stef Kamil (from 2019) and two of his previous projects: Moondog Jr. (from 1996), and Zita Swoon (from 1998).

Moondog Jr.  -  'Waiting 'til you're gone'


The documentary:




AN UPDATE FROM DWEEZIL ZAPPA

Hello Everyone, 

Happy NEW YEAR! Thank you very much for helping to keep my dad's musical legacy alive and supporting my homage to him. Can you believe it's been a 20-year journey? I started touring my dad's music back in 2006! This year, I'm going to celebrate 20 years of hard work by releasing as many LIVE CONCERT VIDEOS on my website as I can, from throughout my 20-year stretch of touring.

Right now, you can purchase the APOSTROPHE COLLECTOR'S CUT VIP Bundle.

https://www.dweezilzappa.com/

If this album has been part of the soundtrack of your life, this is your chance to see and hear it in a brand‑new way!

JANUARY 10th 2026 - FULL CONCERT VERSION - will be released.

The FULL-LENGTH VERSION has more musical performances from my dad and George Duke. Here's the set list:

1. Gumbo Variations
2. Don’t Eat The Yellow Snow
3. Nanook Rubs It
4. St. Alfonzo’s Pancake Breakfast
5. Father O’Blivion
6. Cosmik Debris (Frank Zappa Vocal and Guitar Solo on screen)
7. Excentrifugal Forz
8. Apostrophe
9. Uncle Remus (George Duke guest)
10. Stink Foot
11. RDNZL (George Duke Guest)
12. Pygmy Twylye (Quaalude Thunder Version - George Duke)
13. Echidna’s Arf (George Duke guest)
14. Inca Roads (Frank Zappa guitar solo on screen - George Duke guest)
15. City Of Tiny Lites
16. I Promise Not To Come In Your Mouth
17. Cruising For Burgers
18. Eat That Question (George Duke guest)
19. Baby Snakes
20. Chrissy Puked Twice
21. Muffin Man (Frank Zappa guitar solo on screen)

Thank you, as always, for listening, watching, and keeping this music alive.

Warm regards, Dweezil



CHATO SEGERER - SUS2'S ON THE LOOSE II

  • Chato Segerer: Sus2’s On The Loose II
        (2025, download / streaming, --, bandcamp)
I'm rather familiar with Chato's (prog) rock and Zappa projects.
Even with his latest endeavors, which are being released on his "Never Odd Or Even" albums.

But I was completely blown away by 'Sus2's On The Loose II', a piece that gives a bit of a preview of what to expect on "Never Odd Or Even Vol. 2".

A beautiful composition with matching instrumentation.
Love it !
Check it out, and make sure to read Chato's comments on the piece over at Bandcamp.