Jon Larsen - Strange News from Mars (review)
Jon Larsen - Strange News from Mars (Zonic Entertainment; ZEN 2001)
reviewed by Michael Macomber
Strange News From Mars, guitarist Jon Larsen’s collaboration with several of Frank Zappa’s former bandmates, has an air of Zappa strangeness about it, while remaining strikingly original.
Founding Mother of Invention Jimmy Carl Black serves as the voice of this record, offering up odd monologues about dog food, ancient civilizations, and mutant fromage. No doubt Zappa fans will smile wistfully when they hear Black declare himself “the first Indian on Mars.” Arthur Barrow, who Zappa fans will recall fondly from the legendary Joe’s Garage LP, contributes a wonderfully weird bass line to the track “Unwanted Sexual Attention In Space.”
Larsen’s captivating guitar work winds in and out and all around this fascinating concept album, at once traditional and experimental. His talent as a composer, arranger, and producer is evident on each and every track, as he deftly balances one element against another. Far from a simple showcase for Larsen’s guitar, this is a true ensemble piece, allowing space for each instrument to claim its place on the Martian landscape.
Trombonist Bruce Fowler (of Over-Nite Sensation and Apostrophe fame) swings furiously on “Goodbye to Earth” and grooves like a mother (ahem) on “Dachs Reduction.” Tommy Mars, who first joined Zappa for the landmark Sheik Yerbouti LP, rolls all over these tracks with his inventive and mesmerizing keyboard work. He is truly a madman at the keys, taking Larsen’s concept beyond Mars, and deep into uncharted territory.
The addition of sound effects, noise tracks, and a telephone call, serve to drive home the sheer quirkiness of Larsen’s artistic approach. Given the courage and creativity Larsen displays on Strange News From Mars, it is no wonder Zappa’s people jumped at the chance to work with him.
