Phase two of a project initiated with the release of Vol. 1 in 1996, Organ Transplants, Vol. 2 is the funniest, cheesiest (see the Swiss cheese motif on the cover?), most accessible release yet by
Stockhausen and Walkman. They haven't gone soft (i.e.,
pop) -- they simply show more focus and an irresistible sense of humor. The idea is simple: a play on the word "organ." The organs transplanted in the 16 tracks are 1970s home organs. The Hammond-a-go-go riffs and melodies are accompanied by horrible Casio-type drum machine auto-programs, and of course tons of sampling, polluting sounds, and "textures."
Andrew Sharpley and
Matt Wand followed song structures, alternating verses and choruses to add a stronger touch of pastiche. Tracks like "Hairy Globe," "New," and "Spoons" are sure to tickle your funny bone, unless you are totally impervious to kitsch. Of course, this album can confuse experimental electronica fans looking for something offbeat and harsh. Maybe call this "comedy electronica"? Yet, for a duo who doesn't take itself too seriously,
Stockhausen and Walkman really polished these songs. And the packaging, including a booklet with pictures of the sampled "stars," is hilarious. While the whole
electronica scene was getting depressingly serious at the turn of the century, this CD came out like a breath of unpretentiously fresh air. ~ François Couture, All Music Guide
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