Marquee Moon by Television
Release Date : 1977
Album : Marquee Moon
Clocking in at just under 11 minutes, Marquee Moon is most certainly Television's magnum opus and stands as a testament to their incredible musicianship and songwriting ability. From droning, dual guitar opening to it's grand crescendo conclusion, this piece is easily the most recognizable song from the band, however most would be hard pressed to name it, or any other for that matter, as Television remains one of the most dismissed groups of all time.
Television formed in New York in late 1973 amidst the burgeoning punk scene of the time. Originally the brainchild of Tom Verlaine and Richard Hell, Television sounght to create more intricate melodies than their punk brethren. Unfortunately it was not meant to last as Hell proved to be a detrimental influence to the band, bound and determined to never fully appreciate the art of good music. Eventually he left the band and formed The Heartbreakers, and later The Voidoids (though that article is for a different day).
Verlaine, second guitarist Richard Lloyd, drummer Billy Ficca and Bassist Fred Smith soldiered on and emphasized composition and sound over stage aesthetics and it worked to perfection. Although a hit at such popular New York venues as CBGB's and Max's Kansas City, their sound was immediately recognizable and unique in comparison to the landscape they were working in at the time. Although they played as a band for several years, it was not until 1977 that their first album was released. Though it was not considered commercially successful by any stretch, it garnered praise from critics throughout the industry. Roy Trakin, writer for SoHo Weekly may have put it best when he said...
"forget everything you've heard about Television, forget punk, forget New York, forget CBGB's ... hell, forget rock and roll—this is the real item."
Make no mistake about it, Marquee Moon is not only the quintessential Television song, it is a must-have album. From start to finish there are absolutely NO poor efforts here. It is a landmark album, well worth the price of admission for you paying customers out there. The song itself stands as a signature piece, still performed in concerts today. From Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd's dueling guitars to Billy Ficca's manic drumming, this is an exquisite piece of music history and a shining example of late 1970's post punk.
Kevin Fever
To learn more about Television and Marquee Moon please check the following links....
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