New York legends Television will play a one-off New Zealand show at Auckland’s The Powerstation on Thursday October 24, their first visit Downunder in a career spanning 40 years.
Singer / guitarist Tom Verlaine, bassist Fred Smith, drummer Billy Ficca and guitarist Jimmy Rip will perform works from right across the Television cannon including songs from their 1977 masterpiece Marquee Moon – consistently rated as one of the all time classic releases.
Founded in New York City in 1973, Television played their second ever show in early 1974 at then fledgling country / bluegrass club CBGB’s - inadvertently creating a hub for the pre-alternative culture of the lower Eastside, alongside the like-minded Patti Smith Group, Blondie, Talking Heads, Richard Hell, The Heartbreakers & Ramones.
Also on this killer bill is Ed Kuepper from Australian heroes the Saints - performing an acoustic set featuring songs from the Saints, Laughing Clowns, The Aints and his considerable and acclaimed solo career.
In 1975 Television released their debut 7 Little Johnny Jewel, a two-sided 7 minute opus of street talk and taut no-frills guitar work featuring Tom Verlaine’s prodigious talent. Released on independent label Ork, it is one of proto-punks rarest and most valuable finds.
In 1977, following increasing major label interest Television finally signed to Elektra (home to The Doors, The Stooges and Love) and released their debut album, the absolute classic, Marquee Moon to massive critical acclaim. It was an instant success cracking the charts in several European countries and going on to become of one rocks most influential albums.
