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What did Zappa mean by the “Phazes”? Which phase are we in now? McLuhan Scholar and Zappa researcher Bob Dobbs, Chad Nantais and Scott Norris continue to explore Zappa’s Civilization Phaze III and how it incorporates ideas related to sensory…
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Beyond Sound: Zappa’s Civilization Phaze III
With its innovative blend of genres, tactile spatial composition, and thematic continuity influenced by concepts from physics, Frank Zappa’s Civilization is a work that stands on its own. McLuhan Scholar and Zappa researcher Bob Dobbs, Chad Nantais and Scott Norris…
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Ike Willis: Zappa’s rock opera extravaganza
Ike Willis and Bob Dobbs discuss Frank Zappa’s unrealized mega-masterpiece “Dio Fa”, illustrating his massive creative vision. Planned as a live, global multimedia opera, “Dio Fa” is emblematic of Zappa’s artistic innovation and versatility, aiming to redefine the boundaries of…
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The book thats a rock concert: Finnegans Wake
Ever thought a book could make you dance? James Joyce’s “Finnegans Wake” brings the rhythm and energy of a live rock concert to the page. From the vocal artistry of Bob Dylan to the linguistic pleasure of Joyce’s words, explore…
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How to appreciate Frank Zappa
In their final episode, Bob and Ben explore Frank Zappa’s influence on appreciating 20th-century classical music and challenging mainstream norms. The speakers admire Zappa’s ability to disrupt the status quo and express concern about modern fans possibly missing the deeper…
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Frank Zappa: LIVE vs Memorex
Bob and Ben explore Frank Zappa’s awareness and understanding of the dynamics between live performances and recorded music. While Zappa is not the sole focus of the entire conversation, he serves as a key reference point in the broader discussion…
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Zappa’s Sonic Revolution: Delinquent principles that redefined music
Dive into an exploration of Zappa’s unparalleled genius, as Bob & Ben tough on his ability to seamlessly blend music, politics, and art. From challenging celebrity culture to pioneering new soundscapes in the face of evolving musical eras, Zappa’s legacy…
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The Global Strike
Bob and Ben explore the idea that we are living in the midst of a “global strike” that is happening everywhere, with people constantly entering and exiting it. This “global strike” suggests the collective action and unification of diverse groups…
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Finnegans Wake: Literary Rosetta Stone of Marxism’s Missteps
Bob and Ben wrestle with the assertion that “Finnegans Wake” by James Joyce provides insight into the flaws of Marxism. It posits that the Soviet Union’s betrayal of Marxism began with its opposition to modernism and its critique of Joyce,…
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The Art of Annoyance: Deliberate Disruption in Art & Communication
Bob and Ben discuss how the idea that “annoying” can be a valuable and essential quality in art and communication. The speakers suggest that being genuinely annoying can lead to engagement, challenge conventions, and provoke thought, contrasting this with formulaic…