Rating: 4.5 Pulses

My brain says good things. Things that are good are coming from my brain.

When my brain processes the sonic information presented by the latest release from the Memphis-based band Organ Thief, it becomes happy and reverts into a state similar to drunkenness. It becomes happy because this album is by far the best album I have been given for the purposes of reviewing.

Actually it is certainly one of the best new albums by any band that I have heard in quite a long time.

Organ Thief plays some very interesting music. As a general classification, I would have to say they are progressive rock. But, progressive rock is only the shell. The first time I listened to the album, I heard at least ten different fields of music all combined and toyed with like these guys invented the styles. The album flows between sounds that were so surprisingly refreshing I couldn’t understand what was happening until I listened to the album about five times. Every time I listened, I expected the songs to do something clich’, but every time they instead left me feeling great.

Basically, these guys are having fun. They have amazing technical skills that are applied tastefully how and when they are necessary. The rhythm section is excellent with smooth drums and interesting bass that is never over the top. The guitars go from delightfully strange to smooth and funky. They touch upon some very excellent slide blues styles that remind me of some of David Gilmore’s more excellent moments. The vocals are very unique while having a classic feel that sounds smooth and delicious.

The best part about this album is the dynamics. In the case of this album, the term dynamics can be used dynamically. The band plays in so many different styles, textures, and volumes that many traditional music listeners might be confused as to what is happening. The album never really has any songs that could quite be considered a single, or considered radio friendly. But, somehow the album as a whole flows quite nicely.

I would look for Organ Thief to continue making amazing music as long as they stay together. This is a band that is truly creative and has really done something excellent with their album Orphan Teeth. I would encourage everyone to check out this album.

Also, come check them out on July 4 at The Boro Bar and Grill. Hopefully, they will be as good live as their recording would indicate.