In 1976, Frank Zappa played four historic sold-out concerts at The Palladium in New York City the week between Christmas and New Years. These thrilling shows described by band member Ruth Underwood as theatrical, outrageous and raucously funny, but also filled with startling and gorgeous music, dating from Franks 1960s output to literally the moment the curtain went up served as the source material for the live double album Zappa In New York which was constructed from the best-played performances with overdubs later recorded in the studio. Originally slated for release in 1977, the album was delayed for a year due to record label censorship issues, mostly over the controversial song Punkys Whips, and finally released in 1978. One of Zappas most beloved collections of songs, the now classic album included a sensational live version of Sofa alongside nine new compositions, including the complex percussion-based piece The Black Page, which has become infamous in the drum community as the ultimate challenge, the Devilish comedic sendup Titties & Beer, and the notorious aforementioned Punkys Whips about Punky Meadows, the flamboyant guitarist for the band Angel.

In celebration of its eventual release in 1978, this 40th Anniversary Edition features all-analog mastering of the original album mix, unavailable since first issued. Plus, an additional LP of select bonus content from The Vault, and new liner notes from Ruth Underwood and Ray White. The 3LP is pressed at Pallas, Germany on 180 gram audiophile grade vinyl.