Hey Greg, my ears have always wanted try to some Zappa. Any advice for a newcomer?

My friend on Twitter, @nicholasvogel asked me: "Hey Greg, my ears have always wanted try to some Zappa. Any advice for a newcomer?"

This initiated a conversation on Facebook with two very good friends that are Zappa fanatics. We generated a lot of excellent recommendations addressing the question.

I post the conversation here for reference of any that might find it of value.