Just in time for the re-election, we have a mostly political album of covers by the band forever doomed to be “Maynard James Keenan’s side project.”

Bands ranging from Black Flag to Joni Mitchell are covered with varying degrees of success. Most noticeable are the versions of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On” and John Lennon’s “Imagine.”

All of the songs take on a completely new identity and Keenan’s arrangement of Lennon’s classic follows suit. What used to be an introspective, hopeful pop song transforms into a minor-key dirge. The message is out of place with the musical accompaniment.

“What’s Goin’ On” takes on a similar tone, although more mellow. The original soul of the song is lost and we are left with a forgettable version.

“Freedom of Choice” by Devo is a highlight, as A Perfect Circle retains its signature sound while not sounding too forced.

The two original songs are also strong – and one wonders why the band did not opt to just make a politically influenced album of originals instead.

A Perfect Circle’s ambitions are admirable, but ultimately, the somber mood does not work for all of the songs covered.