Organ Failure, All Over

There is something to be said for the freedom that comes with doing music for yourself. There is a luxury a band out working for a label will never have, the ability to create a picture much like the individuals who make up the band. There is no having to stick to a preset formula or hold to an idea of what is expected. On All Over, Organ Failure grasps the idea of non-conformity and runs with it.

The first song, “What We Really Want To Do,” begins with a touch of funk, while the next song, “Devil Why Must You Pursue Me,” borrows from folksy, Celtic influences, and “Worms” sounds like something from an old jazzy swing club. This is the mood that follows the whole CD: the utmost expression of whatever crosses the minds of the musicians that make up the band.

Nothing is left untouched. Music reminiscent of children’s television shows are in abundance. The ability of this band to explore every avenue of music makes it all come together perfectly and somehow make sense.

Considering that the members of this band are the minds behind local club Super Happy Fun Land, there should be little surprise at the eclectic nature of the music in the CD. Night after night of watching bands and performance artists of every genre and idea set play on the same bill will definitely open up your mind to any possibility under the sun. That’s what you’ll find on this CD, a full view of what the band wants to do.

Oh, yeah, and there are some covers on the album. A heart-wrenching version of “Folsom County Blues,” recreated by Cookie Monster and titled “Cookie Prison Blues,” pulls you near to tears of mixed laughter and sorrow. A folksy/Celtic-sounding recreation of The Clash’s “Rock The Casbah” gives the old standard a fresh sound while making the song sound great. Then the cover of “Boom, I Got Your Boyfriend” just has to be heard — there’s nothing I can really say to do it justice.

If you’re a fan of produced rock bands that follow a specified path, this album is not for you. It will leave you confused, afraid, and possibly bummed out. If, on the other hand, you enjoy music that’s made for the love of music and doesn’t spend a lot of time trying to be polished, clean, and produced to no end, this album will get your motor running. Sure, there are a few spots where the insanity reaches uncomfortable levels, but the balance is good enough to earn high marks.