THE GIG: Banned from Utopia

THE VENUE: Martyrs, Chicago, Illinois

THE DATE: July 12, 2024

One of the more amusing — yet highly musical — gigs I attended last year came from a band calling itself Banned from Utopia. They’re a wonderful collection of musicians celebrating the music of Frank Zappa. Best of all, the band sports three Zappa band alums: Ray White (vocals), Bobby Martin (keyboards), and Scott Thunes (bass). They were joined onstage by Jamie Kime (guitar), and Robbie “Seahag” Mangano (drums).

The set was nothing short of amazing. The tour is appropriately named: “We Love Zappa.” Every note was played with living care and passion. The only thing missing was the Man himself, who no doubt would’ve approved of what was taking place.

#cirdecsongs

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