‘Dear Science’ a positive result for TV On The Radio

October 1, 2008 | Filed under: e-Columns,Entertainment | Posted by:

By Nick Walters

If you have never heard of the Brooklyn band, TV On The Radio, then you should probably take the time to listen to a few of their tunes because you will not be disappointed. The band mixes many elements to create their unique sound including aspects of rock, punk, free jazz and soul utilizing rocking guitars, synthesizers and occasionally even horns. The band has the sound of a musical experiment that has yielded very positive results.

TV On The Radio has recorded a decent amount of material since their inception in 2001. They have released numerous EPs and have recorded three critically acclaimed studio albums. In 2006, “Spin Magazine” gave the group’s album, “Return to Cookie Mountain,” the honor of Album of the Year. TV On The Radio has also remixed songs from such notable artists as Beck and Nine Inch Nails, while founding member David Andrew Sitek has produced albums for the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and the Liars.

Last week TV On The Radio released their latest studio album, “Dear Science,” which has been received rather well by fans. Personally, I have been rocking to the album all week via my iPod and have not yet discovered a disappointing moment. I especially enjoyed the cuts “Shout me Out,” “Stork and Owl,” and “Dancing Choose.”

The band has completed a video for the latter and has recently performed the song on the “Late Show with David Letterman.” The performance was particularly interesting because it was performed on the fire escape outside of the Ed Sullivan Theater, where the show is taped.

While the new album is a great piece of work, people who are looking to check out the band for the first time should definitely listen to tracks from their previous works as well. While TV On The Radio’s sound is recognizable once you have experienced it, their vibe does change a bit with each new release. To get a good taste of their work, I would recommend the tracks “Starring At The Sun,” “Bomb Yourself” and “Wolf Like Me.” Give these tracks and “Dear Science” a listen and you will be able to bask in the gloriousness that is TV On The Radio.

Nick Walters is an English senior. E-mail nwalters@kykernel.com.