This album makes you wonder what it must have been like back in 1977 when FZ, after the frustration with the record labels decided not to release his megawork, to play the whole thing on the radio (ALL 8 SIDES!). Some call it a masterpiece, a freak out, or just what the (explitive). The fact is this is a perfect framework for displaying the mind of FZ. You could get this title and have what so many other FZ albums do, though Lather was split into other albums like Sleep Dirt and Studio Tan. So many examples of what FZ is capable of. In the liner notes, it says it's understandable that this album could have been composed by a multitude of writers. Lather ranges from his Varese inspired orchestral works, jazz fusion, experiments with tape speeds, live versions of "Broken Hearts Are..." and "Tryin To Grow A Chin" (found on "Shiek Yerbouti"), and other stuff from the kitchen sink. Yet somehow this eclectic collection is all held together with Frank's guitar work and humor. Yes, a few go overboard (I never really got "Gregory Peckory). But when you start disc 1 with the powerful instrumental "Regyptian Strut", you know you're in for something special. Think of it as going into a funhouse. You're never quite sure what you'll get, but it's one heck of a ride.