I have taken it upon myself to give Roland’s new VK-1 a nickname, one that Washington state residents may not find very humorous, but one that is appropriate nonetheless. I have decided after careful deliberation to call this organ the volcano in tribute to the incredible sound of the bass register of this instrument. Besides, I don’t know what VK means, but it sounds close enough to volcano to suit me. Anyway...

Down through the years there have been many noteworthy organs used in a rock ’n’ roll context. Of course, the behemoth Hammond B-3 is generally recognized as the grandaddy of them all, but alas, like many of the giant beasts that once roamed the continent, the noble Hammond B-3 fell victim to its own enormity. Seems like very few people are willing to carry them around anymore, although some players still won’t play anything else.

But let us not forget the spunky Farfisa Duo-Compact or the sleek Vox Jaguar. I am convinced that it was that cheesy organ riff that did the trick. And who can forget such dashing figures as Paul Revere or Mike Smith of the Dave Clark Five? Cheesy organ was never better.