“Halloween ’81”

Halloween was a special time for the late Frank Zappa, at least when it came to the concerts he performed nearly every October between 1974 and 1984 in New York City. The seven-hour “Halloween ’81” box set follows the posthumous releases of his 1973 and 1977 Halloween shows, which were recorded in Chicago and New York, respectively. This six-cd set was recorded over several nights at New York’s Palladium.

It features 78 previously unreleased live recordings, along with a Zappa-esque Halloween mask and a black and red cape. Zappa and “stunt guitarist” Steve Vai provide six-string thrills aplenty, while drum ace Chad Wackerman drives the dazzling, seven-man band with equal poise and panache. Those seeking a streamlined version can opt for the 14song CD “Halloween 81: Highlights From The Palladium, New York City,” which is also available on download and streaming services.

UME; six CDS, plus a mask, cape and 40-page booklet; $101.73