Televise: Sometimes Splendid Confusion

Televise
Sometimes Splendid Confusion
Drifting Falling
2008-03-11

British musician Simon Scott is the brains behind Televise, a group that would be found on a shelf between Jesus & Mary Chain as well as My Bloody Valentine. The fuzzy, atmospheric nature to this EP is evident from the get go as “Tropical Mix” has an airy, tranquil quality to it despite the fact it could erupt at any moment. Think of the recent Nine Inch Nails Ghosts project and things should become clearer. The band, sparked and inspired by a chance sighting by Scott of former Pink Floyd brainchild-cum-recluse Syd Barrett, keeps this vibe throughout, making for some very pretty segments. “Rain.Dot.Sunshine” is a touch more guitar-oriented and somber, sounding as if you should be visioning Scarlett Johansson and Bill Murray departing (or Lost In Translation for those not in the know). Probably the standout effort is “The Longing”, a very appropriate title as there’s a sense of yearning and desperation Scott nails down effortlessly. Even finer is how he is able to keep this vibe going for more than nine minutes. The fuzzed-out shoegazer “Fish Fish Fish” is another keeper on an EP that should make M83 fraught with worry.

RATING 7 / 10