Zappa Plays Zappa is without a doubt a bizarre experience.

Put together to celebrate Frank Zappa’s 70th birthday by his adoring son Dweezil, the show consists of a two-and-a-half-hour homage to his dad’s incredible original music, played by a full band of exceptional musicians fronted by Dweezil on guitar, with Frank periodically projected on a screen as a special guest from beyond the grave.

At first the appeal is inexplicable; in spite of the performers’ incredible musicianship, the music skirts dangerously between avante-garde rock, easy listening and fire-in-a-pet-shop jazz.

The justification for the audience’s deep ritualistic reverence comes halfway through the Apostrophe section as Frank “joins” the band.

Larger than life, his 1970’s film performance graciously upstaged everything live on the stage.

A genuinely great performer, he comfortably managed to juxtapose his intricate orchestration with apparent nonchalance, all spiced with his sense of the ridiculous. It was creative brilliance with a twist of fun. He was mesmerising.

As the evening developed, the band played on through a mixture of the inaccessibly obscure Rollo and crowd pleasers such as the classic City Of Tiny Lights featuring awesome solos.

The encore, which featured Dancing Fool and Baby Snakes, closed with the whole audience in a standing ovation.

From a disciple’s point of view, seeing Zappa “live” on stage was an emotional experience.

Enjoying the chance to see him one last time while simultaneously knowing he has gone is odd to say the least. Lord only knows how it must feel for Dweezil!