TV on the Radio

Splendid's interview with TV on the Radio is really quality. Part of what makes it so interesting to read is that the interviewer is not only a fan of the band, but was really moved by the music.

The band talks about some of the different ways they make music:

Tunde: Well, we're singing directly into these pedals, which normally you would put a musical instrument into. And for us, it allows us at live shows to repeat, essentially to sing a line into the pedal and press a button and then you can harmonize with yourself. And you can keep doing it for as long as you want until it becomes completely unlistenable. You can speed it up and slow it down. It's kind of a combination of theremin and turntable and I don't know what, but it makes a really weird sound, like a caffeinated string section.

A lot of the time when I listen to music I really have to be able to dissect what instrument is making what noise, and imagine each part being played in my head. It's part of the fun for me, even figuring out when it's Nick and when it's Albert during Strokes songs. But for TV on the Radio, I have no other choice but to give up totally to the music. Nick Zinner and Brian Chase from YYYs and Aaron Hemphill from Liars all guest on the record, but the only sound I can barely recognize from them is Zinner's scratchy guitar parts. The EP, Young Liars, really is quite remarkable, and I suggest seeking out a copy. Touch & Go has an mp3 of "Staring at the Sun" to listen to.

The band has posted prospective tour dates on their website. Chicago can expect them November 6 and 7; Minneapolis on November 8.

Listening: The Strokes, "12:52"; The Dandy Warhols, "We Used to Be Friends"