On This Day: Television's 'Marquee Moon' Turns 47
Few albums have captivated me as much on a first listen as Television’s Marquee Moon. The guitar-driven debut from the group blended intricate skill with the raw vigor of New York's burgeoning punk movement, propelling the genre into uncharted territories upon its release in 1977.
Nowadays, many look back on the record as underground or indie, depending on who you ask–though, there's little argument about the album's influence.
Across its eight tracks, the record intrigued countless aspiring artists, paving the way for bands like Patti Smith, Blondie, Sonic Youth, Built to Spill, and many others.
At first glance, the record is a unique creation plucked effortlessly from seemingly nothing. In many respects, it truly was and remains so, yet its genesis arguably couldn't have occurred anywhere other than the band's hometown of New York City.
Musically, New York during the mid to late 1970s epitomized an expansive frontier, a limitless playground where innovation and experimentation were tolerated and actively encouraged.
Whether you point to Swans, Sonic Youth, or Television, there’s a reason they sound how they do and their formation revolves around this particular place.
The album kicks off brilliantly, featuring what is arguably one of its most unforgettable tracks in See No Evil and it doesn’t slow down from there, pairing great lyricism, performances, and musicianship across the eight tracks.
I implore you all to listen to the record if you haven’t already. Happy birthday Marquee Moon. Listen to it here.