Mike Keneally Inca Roads Cardiff 16 March 2003

[@franciscojavierruiz7219]

No idea that a single acoustic person can make such incredibly complicated song so fully respectful to the original!!!

[@espaciodelangel5760]

I can't even understand all of this weirds musical ideas... totally amazing

[@seabertotter4325]

It's true that married couples are are the ones that usually make a such incredibly complicated song so fully respectful to the original! Reports are coming in from the lab that this phenomenon is usually accomplished immediately after coitus.

[@Alun49]

Of all the Zappa guitarists I often think that Mike Keneally, coming right at the end of Zappa's touring band years, gets a little overlooked! He is a superb player and deserves far greater recognition! This is an incredible feet, to play Inca Roads on acoustic? Solo???? Jeezzz!

[@tomz808]

I've been a Zappa fan since Weasels but I never heard of him. Thanks KZbin for knowing that I should know about him!

[@ManicMovesDrowsyDreams]

He's the most like Zappa all around as an artist.

[@timcardona9962]

@@tomz808 Have you seen the Zappa's Universe video from 93 ? Zappa produced and arranged the whole show and Keneally is the 'frontman" and does jazz disharge party hats, vocals *and* guitar. Keneally is a legend in the zappa world

[@tomz808]

@@timcardona9962 Hi Tim. Thanks for the recommendation. I haven't seen it so I'll check it out.

[@andyg5655]

@@timcardona9962 Yep, it was a shame Vai won a Grammy for "Sofa" when Mike was on point for so many more complicated tunes, especially "brown shoes". Mike made that night special to the Zappa's, he was otherworldly in how well he captured the "eyebrows".

[@grouchozappa]

Most awesome thing you're gonna find on the internet

[@marshalljoe338]

Groucho Zappa I once saw someone fit their entire head in a cows vagina. This still just beats

[@franciscojavierruiz7219]

Yes indeed!!

[@mu99ins]

A normal person can't do that. This guy must have some kind of genetic mutation. Or else, he's from a different planet...check his papers.

[@scottjist]

@@mu99ins oooooo

[@scottjist]

@@franciscojavierruiz7219 and the

[@CalebDeCoteau]

Even the guitar couldn't handle it... The power of Mike is unchallenged.

[@hackupboulders]

I didn't see the wheelbarrow on stage that he wheeled his BALLS in to even TRY this song solo! Fantastic Mike, Bravo!!!

[@TimSchmidt_art]

Anyone who even attempts this song, on any instrument....guitar, piano, kazoo...is a legend in my book.

[@donovanhattingh8976]

Every couple of years I end up back here after a few drinks and it still completely blows my mind. For me one of the best things about this video is that most people watching it would be completely nonplussed. That chasm between perceptions of this video is part of what makes it truly extraordinary for me. A non-musician and non-Zappa fan will see a guy who seems to know what he's doing playing what appears to be random notes with a puzzling melody and apparently random lyrics. A musician and non-Zappa fan would see a very talented individual doing something that's clearly interesting and special, but would also be none the wiser with no more context. A Zappa fan who's a non-musician would understand what's going on and appreciate the massive amount of skill required, but maybe not appreciate all the nuances. But a musician and Zappa fan? Well, that's why I keep coming back here. Mike Keneally is one of the most tragically underappreciated musicians of his generation. The guy is a fucking machine! Just the knowledge that this video exists makes me happy.

[@cpkuhnen]

Well said!

[@jamiesmart8704]

💯

[@atomshalom]

You said it right. He's magnificent

[@emanuelediiorio-gp7wl]

A beautifully articulated comment. I couldn't agree more. And i think i'm going to get back to this video myself in similar conditions as yours. I just it right now for the very first time.

[@jibicusmaximus4827]

As a guitarist of 35 years I can confirm, that is impossible lol, he has a great feel too, that is hard to get across with other such complex musical forms I find.

[@jewfroDZak]

IN. THE. POCKET.

[@juliehankinson4891]

Amazing performance. Frank must have been looking down at him and beaming with pride.

[@tommyquirk2084]

In any other era, this type of genius would be locked up. Absolutely brilliant.

[@gelbot]

The fact that the Universe saw fit to allow Mike Keneally to play in Zappa's band encourages me to think that sometimes things work out the way they are supposed to :)

[@frankz.4228]

Please explain

[@bveracka]

That was an AWESOME PERFORMANCE! It takes a certain talent to entertain a crowd with a song as tough, weird, and long as this one. Then he pulls an ace from his sleeve when he breaks a string and jumps on the Rhodes piano; how cool! This has got to be one of the coolest "open-mic night" -style videos I've ever seen. *Hats off to Mike Keneally!*

[@cliffordhampton344]

Very amazing....im impressed

[@johnnyaxe2004]

He was one of my favs….soooo many incredible musicians

[@cravinbob]

""Inca Roads"? I thought, how in the hell in the hell is he gonna pull that off? I guess I know now. I will be out back burning my guitars if anyone is looking for me...

[@TimSchmidt_art]

HAHA. I hear ya man.

[@cravinbob]

Yeah, does he perform his own stunts or is that a stand-in?!

[@philadams5580]

Hahahahahaha, we've all said that at one point or another but, this was very well applied.....

[@almsthvn]

Because he's Mike Keneally.

[@michaeltraffanstedt7674]

You said it.

[@Tenkvandool]

ok. MIND BLOWN

[@timmungenast]

Clearly one of the very best guitarists alive.

[@sgtpepper91]

lmfao, sure

[@diegocorredor9298]

@@sgtpepper91 -"sgt pepper"

[@mellivebrown28]

Absolutely awesome man! You really did a good job! Nice sharing! Subscribe here!

[@Vanderdude404]

somebody give this man a grammy and then end them because this is the best thing ever.

[@ManicMovesDrowsyDreams]

It is. I'm not even a fan of performances of this song from the 70s either

[@agentmorgan_ny]

This man's gift is innate and uncanny while coupled with a strong work ethic. If you are familiar with this song then you know how absolutely mind blowing this is.!!

[@duncansmith69]

every time ive seen mike keneally ive been blown away.

[@billmcauley8281]

Fecking genius , and to finish off on the keyboard with that scatting part just showed Mikes true class . Amazing musician

Holy Holy Cr** Sh** Fu**.... I clapped out loud in my office when this ended!!!!! Insanely good and respectful of Zappa and George Duke and that whole AMAZING band Zappa had. Mike played the HELL out of this!!!! NICE-NICE-NICE

[@PrankZabba]

GREAT GOOGLY MOOGLY!!!

[@bustedfender]

A solo acoustic version. Was not expecting that. Suitably bonkers.

[@pallhe]

Impressive. You've got to admire the man's guts for even trying this!

[@clearspot1267]

Incredible to have the nerve to do that live, just amazing. Hats off to you Mike! Frank would have loved it, what an amazing performance

[@deathlesshorsie]

Jaw dropping - absolutely stunning ... i'm lost for works at his greatness....

[@swordstoke]

Nothing short of astounding! Having seen Zappa play it live this comes a close second! Bravo!

[@chreg1]

Genius, best Zappa cover I have ever seen.

[@emanuelediiorio-gp7wl]

What the hell did i just see?!?! Video was suggested to me by youtube. When i saw the thumbnail i thought "no way, he can't play inca roads all by himself using only voice and guitar!" And here i sit now, absolutely flabbergasted. Probably the closest thing to the definition of "unbelievable" i have ever experienced! Stunning performance!!!

[@chriswinter8255]

"Well, why don't you sharpen it, then?" - Unbelievable musicianship....Fucking WOW!!!

[@johnharpdalton7766]

Fabulous guitar playing and singing... Zappa lives! What a technique, and what a great tune even without the band. How did Frank ever come up with such stuff!!! Mike, you're one of the best guitarists ever... not to mention the keys, too... You's the tops!

[@COTG666]

This is the most amazing performance of a Zappa song I've ever seen. When he breaks a string near the end, it becomes even more amazing.

[@stevenluxenberg379]

That performance is simply incredible, inspiring and beyond comprehension. You can feel the passion and love coming from the heart and spirit from Mr. Keneally. God bless you.

[@a_missippian]

keep coming back for this mindblower .. gotta see him live

[@fzappa1325]

After seeing Zappa´s original version and Mike Keneally´s, I´m shure I could live 1000 years and I wouldn´t be able to play that wonderful number !

[@Toddobvious]

Love the inclusion of Jazz Discharge Party Hats as the incidental dialogue

[@esaker]

This has made me indescribably happy!

[@SonicWizKid_Kates]

OMG... And I hereby challenge anybody who gave this a "thumbs down" to try this themselves.

[@housseineelhamidi1586]

Whaaaaaaaat a really Great Cover of Frank Zappa beautiful wonderful performance insane I love it woooow congratulations 🎉 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

[@dcodfert]

incredible kenneally !!!!! AMAZING Inca roads alone ....... genius !!!!

[@circulation69]

I was lucky enough to be at this gig, what an awesome night it was. The most amazing thing is it wasn't a planned show as part of a tour. Mike was visiting friends in Wales and was asked to do it as a one-off. What an amazing down to earth human being he was as well. A big thank you for posting this, it's just brought back some amazing memories :)

[@charliehollis1486]

Thank you for the background about this performance. What a transcendent moment to have been present for. In a just world, everyone would know about, and adore, Master Michael Keneally!

[@deepindercheema4917]

I was at the tour in Birmingham, it was part of a Taylor guitars sponsorship. Where was it in Cardiff?

[@smegger68]

@@deepindercheema4917 The Toucan club.

[@gedwalls7660]

I met him in Manchester UK. He was kind enough to share some of his wisdom with me about playing Guitar and improvising. A true gentleman.

[@tomz808]

He is amazing.

[@angelosartore2179]

Truly EXCELLENT. Hats off to you sir. This is one of my all-time favourite Zappa tunes.

[@crydee1]

That was THE BEST version I have ever seen, apart from the big man, The show must go on. Friggin awesome

[@stephenyates5299]

I saw Mike do this at PMT music in Birmingham. I could not believe my eyes and ears. As a musician and arranger, this guy is on another level. Love his work!

[@jonnybabylon]

Yikes! That man is so cool. I got to meet him on the last FZ tour and he was just as nice kind and inspiring as he seems. It's great to catch up with him again and see that as original as he is he still keeps the true Zappa spirit in tact. Thanks.

[@curiousnomad]

Frank’s question “What can you do that’s FANTASTIC?” This.

[@drkmriggs]

I knew he was gonna break a string! Absolutely insane rendition.

[@jameswalker4704]

Now on my daily playlist.....help open up my ears....he's also cute and joyful...and the way he saves it at the end....

[@jameswalker4704]

This, Spanish Fly, and Eugene's Trick Bag.....

[@flowerpunkchip]

Absolutely love it when a genius plays music of another genius (not a statement, just my point of view)

[@neilzappa2480]

Holy shit You are awesome I will pass this on to people who need to know Big love to you From a guy that understands Zappa And how how it’s put together 👌 Manchester England. You are excellent 👌 Brilliant.

[@peterlawson777]

Makes me want to throw my guitar away......exceptional.....then he goes and plays it on the keyboard too.....bloody hell.

[@enricocavasino3642]

WOW MIKE!!!! WHAT'S STOONED PERFORMANCE of this incredible piéce of Zappa's MUSIC ......IS THE BEST!!!!

[@NerveEnd]

this is as close as you can get to perfection

[@smoovegittar]

Saw him and Bellar play this at East Coast Music in Danbury, CT. many years ago. Mike is just astounding.

[@kipponi]

I have no fucking idea how these people can play Zappa's stuff. Orchestra song with multiple parts? It takes four brains to do that :). Of course I know Keneally and I love Zappa's music.

[@TylerVanner]

+kipponi He played with Frank Zappa. He wouldn't of played with Zappa if he didn't know how to play

[@kipponi]

Tyler Vanner I have been listening Zappa for ages of course I know that. I am just amazed Keneally's multiple skills. I know he can play many instruments.

[@TylerVanner]

Yeah true say.

[@deanallen927]

Holy shit! He's a great singer too! What a total badass.

[@gedwalls7660]

A severely underrated artist.

[@mikegallagher4388]

This is possibly the greatest video in the history of video.

[@MakoNext]

best acoustic performance ever made in history! congratulations

[@kennylyon1934]

A beyond brilliant musician playing the music of a beyond brilliant composer... remarkable)

[@bendavies4072]

No WAY did he just do that!! What an absolute legend. Hats off sir!

[@brucepieroni9102]

Holy cow, Mike. Outstanding!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@davexxx5175]

I saw Mike for the first time with Zappa .. it was one of the last concerts of his . It was in the end of May 1988 ... another great musician from Zappa's band! Amazing performance!

[@blzbob7936]

Stunning skills! To do this complicated tune, on an acoustic, and keyboard, live, is incredible. Thanks for posting this. x

[@NickHolum]

He should be awarded with a medal for this

[@anthonyfesta1224]

I never seen or heard this done before... what a challenge!!! 😎 BRAVO!!!!

[@donfurcio4080]

Inca roads (Impossible version)... amazing

[@DrCoyoteBanjo]

Mike--this is AWESOME! Absolutely convinced that FZ would approve! Well done sir!

[@swbbreps8464]

Best thing I’ve seen on YT, maybe ever. I know every twist of this tune like the back of my hand and that was incredible. We saw him with the Zappa Band open for King Crimson in 2021 and Mike was switching between guitar and keyboards just like that on every tune. He played Zappa’s parts, George Duke parts, Tommy Mars parts, and Ruth Underwood parts (on keys) switching like it was nothing, like a game. Definitely one of the world’s finest living musicians.

[@erikmaronde2244]

Mike is a top class act on guitar, keyboards, vocals and as a human!🎉🎶🖖

[@martynphillips5310]

That is unbelievably amazing!!!! How the hell????????? So good!

[@Njal55]

Fantastic all round musician!

[@beta14ok]

I love coming back to watch & listen to this,......again and again. Thank you!!

[@flowerpunkchip]

Something beautiful and positive in 2021.... God i miss the old normal.

[@jimbrown195]

Just wonderful. Thanks.

[@goodun6081]

"You can't do that [be this brave] on stage any more". Frank would have been impressed ---- then would've demanded a royalty check!

[@rockfilm]

OMG...what a brilliant version. Thx all.

[@ronfrey6639]

This version is unstoppable and it makes me very happy.. I met Mike once before G3 I was early to show to see Ej and had tickets anyway but just like soundcheck early and Mike was walking around playing the green strat and just all around the room just jamming but no sound I was looking at him and he said hello and I said you mind me asking your walking around doing a sound check but no sound he said oh im marking my territory I said what he said its a mind thing to get over stage freight blew me the fuck away I said tell me more he said he just went around all during sound check in every area of the room so he already played there ive done this every since cause Ive got it myself and it works to an extent but practice is the rest it has to be automatic and Mike came out with Vai and blew everybodies shit away never missed a note and walked around sarchastically as if that shit was so easy and ho hum boring.. fucking wrecked the place.. I love this man because he made me strive to become better and ive worked at reading music more and will continue to do so this month...

[@monomaiden]

Amazing!! you have to be out of your mind to attempt this

[@aidanmca4177]

Wow, pure talent. This performance is amazing

[@rezleraz]

I remember an interview (or did I read it?) where Frank said: "...of all the guitarists in the band, Mike (Keneally) had the keenest ear."

[@cscroger6742]

FZ also called MK " the best new guy in the band, ever".

[@leomilani_gtr]

this man is unbelieveble...

[@tomz808]

A hug from me too!!! That was an amazing feat of talent, dedication and love.

[@KRITHMAN]

unbelevable! you are so great man!

[@charlesarizona]

Was privileged to see him in "The Zappa Band" last year playing at Whiskey a Go Go. Not well attended, so I had no trouble standing ten feet away and watching him play, alternating between guitar and keyboard with casual dexterity, sometimes playing both at once. I can't imagine having that kind of musical fluency. And he has said in an interview when when he first auditioned for Zappa, he had memorized all the music so he didn't read any of it, just pretended to, as he knew Zappa wanted musicians who could read.

[@kevincassidy1789]

Insane. Unbelievable achievement, playing that tune solo.

[@Splitbrainmusic1]

Wow...what an amazing piece of mastery.Inca roads on acoustic.Wow & awe man & hats completely off.

[@franciscojavierruiz7219]

Man you are completely crazy out of this world!!

[@petermaxwell4904]

hope frank was some how able to hear that ...shit..what a player ..

[@wernerandreasli9165]

Ohhhhhhh MG this is so amazing, I did not know before you are one of the best ever Mike, thank you what you share with us

[@christophersleight1943]

Sometimes there aren't words to accurately describe witnessing, ah, something. I'm speechless.

[@chreg1]

Unbelievable nail biting journey, the guy is a genius!

[@progressiverockvocal]

My Hats off..... I consider this song as one of the best construction projects Frank ever did.! The world is not as bright without him now......... musicians like Mike help keep those who will listen, enlightened.

[@fireman5419]

The guitar was like..."enough already" hahaha. Beautiful

[@mikelanyon7674]

Awesome Sir!!! for 1 guy to play this .......... you are brave..... and amazeing............well done +1

[@johnnorthfieldmusic]

absolutely fabulous!!!

[@_fesh]

I've never seen such raw talent in a performance before holy shit

[@trapazoidalwindow]

Jezees. What a badass. Great performance. Thx for shar'n footage, KieranFunzig.

[@2wayplebney]

Totally nuts and very wonderful.

[@PaulMurray_writer]

Fucking incredible - bravo, Mike Keneally

[@JamminClemmons]

Amazing~~! Mike............I was perspiring watching you pull this off! YOU--DA--MAN