"Zappa in New York" is a double live album by American musician and composer Frank Zappa. Released in March 1978 on DiscReet Records, it was subsequently recut and reissued by Zappa's label Barking Pumpkin Records in 1986.
The album represents a major turning point in Zappa's live performance legacy and was taped during a series of concerts at the Palladium in New York City on December 26–29, 1976. These shows were produced as a celebration of both the end of Zappa's contractual ties with Warner Bros, and for the premier of his new touring band, a group that contained several future societal fixtures such as Terry Bozzio and Adrian Belew.
These tracks are full of biting social commentary, intricate musical compositions, and virtuoso-level instrumental performances. Notable songs include "The Illinois Enema Bandit", "The Black Page #2" and "Titties & Beer". The album was controversial due to some tracks like "Titties and Beer" and "The Illinois Enema Bandit" for explicit content.
Initially, the album was meant to be released on a quadruple - or possibly quintuple - record set, technically titled "Läther", but due to disputes between Zappa and his then-record label, Warner Bros, the album was shelved and the tracks ended up on multiple other releases, including "Zappa in New York".
"Zappa in New York" was acclaimed for its sophisticated music and sardonic humor. It's often considered one of Zappa's best live albums, demonstrating his exceptional talents as a composer, arranger, and band leader.
In 2019, the Zappa family trust released a 40th Anniversary edition box set of the album, including previously unreleased performances and a full recreation of the proposed four-LP version of "Läther".
