The Frank Zappa
Review Page
Broadway The
Hardway (1988)
If I was to compare this album to another one it
would be with 'Have I Offended Someone' because the style of writing is
similiar in that there is plenty of socio- political commentary, the music
though is not nearly as good as on 'Have I...'. This album remains one of the
most popular of all Zappa's works with his loyal fans, I fail to see why
though. I am not saying that it is a bad album because it isn't, I just do not
think that it is great or anywhere near approaching great. I admit that the
political theme is wearing a little thin with me, I don't mind political
commentary it just becomes annoying when it takes up the whole album!
The
album opens with 'Elvis has Just Left The Building' a reasonably fun pop tune,
followed by 'Baritone Women' which again is a little entertaining. My favourite
track is next 'Any Kind Of Pain' it is cheesy and silly but has something
amazingly attractive about it, I cannot work it out? 'When The Lies So Big'
also works for me despite the political content of the lyrics. 'Rhymin' Man' is
another good track and sting makes an appearance on 'Murder By Numbers'. There
are negatives though 'Jezebel Boy' is rubbish and features in my worst ten
Zappa songs of all time! 'Jesus Thinks Your'e A Jerk' is overrated and frankly
not really worth listening to. 'Outside Now' is a super track because it is
fluid and the lyrics are interesting. 'Hot Plate Heaven' is a super Jazz number
but it feels somewhat out of place on this pop/rock/satire album. Broadway The
Hardway is definately a mixed bag, I am sure that some fans love it, for the
sharp lyrics and quirky music, but I do not place it highly on my list of Zappa
albums, it is not one that I would have purchased with hindsight. Compared to
all the rubbish that was released in the late 1980's this is a very good
recording, however I am giving it it's rating based on the grand scheme of
things, in comparison to Zappa's other works that is why the album gets a
lowish mark.
Rating – 55%