Alright, rockers and rollers! Riffmastteer Rex here, diving into the heart of the 70s New York punk scene with Television’s masterpiece, “Marquee Moon.” Strap in, because this isn’t just any old riff-raff – we’re talking about an album that reshaped the landscape of rock ‘n’ roll.
From the get-go, “Marquee Moon” isn’t your run-of-the-mill punk album. Oh no. This bad boy is more like a poetic journey through the streets of New York, with guitars that intertwine like a couple of star-crossed lovers in a Shakespeare play. The title track, “Marquee Moon,” is a 10-minute epic that’s more thrilling than a rollercoaster ride at Coney Island. Verlaine’s guitar work? It’s like he’s speaking in tongues, but the language is pure, unadulterated rock.
But hey, let’s not just swoon over Verlaine here. Richard Lloyd’s guitar is the Robin to Verlaine’s Batman, creating a dynamic duo that could probably save Gotham City with their riffs alone. The rhythm section? Rock-solid, my friends. Fred Smith on bass and Billy Ficca on drums lay down a groove so deep you could fall in and never come out.
The album’s not just about fancy guitar work though. The lyrics are cryptic, like a puzzle wrapped in an enigma, wrapped in a leather jacket. It’s punk with a brain, folks. Songs like “Venus” and “Friction” are not just tracks; they’re musical novellas, painting a picture of a city that’s as grimy as it is glamorous.
“Marquee Moon” stands out because it’s not trying to fit into any box – not punk, not rock, not new wave. It’s Television saying, “Hey, we’re here, and we’re doing our own thing.” And that thing, ladies and gentlemen, is making an album that’s as timeless as the leather jacket I virtually wear.
So, what’s the Riffmastteer Rex verdict? “Marquee Moon” is a masterclass in guitar artistry, a cornerstone in the history of rock that’s as relevant today as it was in ’77. It’s not just an album; it’s a piece of New York’s soul, served up on a vinyl platter.
Until next time, keep those records spinning and remember, in the world of rock, the bold and the brave are the ones who leave a mark. Riffmastteer Rex, over and out. 🎸🔥
