Broadway the Hard Way
Frank Zappa · 1988
71 min · 17 tracks · alternative rock · classical · jazz fusion
A satirical blend of jazz, rock, and spoken word, laced with Zappa's razor-sharp wit.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic exploration of satirical themes
- wave-like pacing with varied moods
- short bursts of sharp wit
- late-night listening with friends
Maybe skip if you want
- seeking straightforward, immediate gratification
- prefer cohesive long-form pieces
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1988, 'Broadway the Hard Way' was Frank Zappa's second-to-last studio album before his death. At this point in his career, Zappa had firmly established himself as a provocative figure in music, with a unique style that combined rock, jazz, and social commentary. This album followed a prolific period marked by extensive touring and experimentation with sound and production techniques.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Captain Beefheart· The Residents· Henry Cow
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Elvis Has Just Left the Building 2:24
- 2 Planet of the Baritone Women 2:48
- 3 Any Kind of Pain 5:42
- 4 Dickie’s Such an Asshole 5:45
- 5 When the Lie’s So Big 3:38
- 6 Rhymin’ Man 3:50
- 7 Promiscuous 2:02
- 8 The Untouchables 2:26
- 9 Why Don’t You Like Me? 2:57
- 10 Bacon Fat 1:29
- 11 Stolen Moments 2:57
- 12 Murder by Numbers 5:37
- 13 Jezebel Boy 2:27
- 14 Outside Now 7:49
- 15 Hot Plate Heaven at the Green Hotel 6:40
- 16 What Kind of Girl? 3:17
- 17 Jesus Thinks You’re a Jerk 9:15
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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