In the complex musical universe of Frank Zappa, FIDOPLAYSZAPPA has been pursuing its own path for over two decades. The Swiss collective sees itself less as the law-abiding guardians of the iconic U.S. composer (1940-1993) and more as respectful tomb raiders.
FIDO received their musical knighthood when they worked with guest singer Robert Martin, who played in Zappa's band from 1981 to 1988. FIDO has toured four times with the American since 2022, honing their breakneck arrangements. Even before Robert Martin's unfortunate departure in the fall of 2025 for health reasons, FIDOPLAYSZAPPA set a course for further reorientation with the Basel Research Prize, which they were the first band to receive: Under the tour name FIDO FIVE, the five instrumentalists now consistently present themselves as five distinctive personalities, five voices, and five frontmen. Because that's the only way to do justice to Zappa's legacy. With its fearless mix of snotty rock live shows paired with virtuoso Swiss precision craftsmanship, the Swiss tribute orchestra knows how to captivate any audience as its stage-savvy professionals live out their passion for the music of the great American composer. The musicians celebrate obscure stories of modified dogs, smelly feet, sad Eskimos, and all kinds of other curiosities of life with verve and in many voices. Stylistically confident, virtuosic, humorous, and with their own unique approach, FIDO continue to intoxicate themselves and their audience with the magnificent work of Frank Zappa, even after 20 years.
Tickets are CHF 28 in advance or CHF 33 at the door.

Website
tickets.sudhaus.ch/events/fido-five-plays-the-music-of-frank-zappa

Where
Sudhaus Basel
Burgweg 7
4058 Basel

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