Mastermind: Parker Trevathan, Mandolinist/Drummer for Randy Abel Stable & The Beijing Dead
“Mastermind” is a regular magazine column in which we quiz a Beijing personality on general knowledge as well as on a subject in which they consider themselves to be a specialist.
Contestant: Parker Trevathan, Mandolinist/Drummer for Randy Abel Stable & The Beijing Dead
Specialist Subject: Frank Zappa
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
In what century was the bra invented?
The bra? The modern bra? I’ll just say 19th century. √
What color is the top stripe on the flag of Hungary?
Green. X
Who did Muhammad Ali fight in “The Thrilla in Manila”?
Foreman. No, he fought Foreman in Africa. I saw a documentary about it. They brought all these funk musicians to Zimbabwe or something. I’ll say Joe Frazier. √
According to Yoda, what emotion is the path to the dark side?
Oh no, I’m not a nerd. I am a nerd, but in my own way. Doubt! Lustfulness! X
Who was known as the Maid of Orleans?
Bessy May? Oh, Orleans in France. Who’s that woman who got guillotined? X
SPECIALIST SUBJECT
How did a wild Zappa fan inspire Deep Purple’s song, “Smoke on the Water?”
The fan shot off a flare at a Zappa concert. It set the auditorium on fire. I’ve heard that recording – they’re all like, “Everyone remain calm ...”√
Where does Zappa rank on Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time?
Eleven. X
In which city was Frank Zappa born?
Baltimore, Maryland. He ended up in high school in San Diego. Then his folks moved to Lancaster Air Force Base ’cause his father worked there. I drove by there. √
In which year was he inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?
1995. √
What Beatles album cover did Zappa parody inside one of his record sleeves?
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band on We’re Only in It for the Money. It shows a lot of the members in little dresses with nasty beards. I love that album. √
Final Score: 6/10
Verdict: Parker knows a lot about bras, boxing and Zappa but gets an F in history and geography.
Answers 1) 19th century 2) red 3) Joe Frasier 4) fear 5) Joan of Arc 6) started a fire 7) 22 8) Baltimore 9) 1995 10) Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band on We’re Only in It for the Money
This article originally appeared on page 49 of the January issue of the Beijinger.
Photo: Mitchell Pe Masilun
