Indie-punks TV People have released their new single ‘String’. Joining forces with Dan Doherty at Darklands Audio (Fontaines D.C., Vulpynes) and Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios (Radiohead, Blur, LCD Soundsystem) the Dublin outfit are taking on 2020 with force; building a name for themselves as the latest in a wave of talent bursting out of Dublin. ‘String’ follows the release of singles ‘Nothing More’, ‘Kitchen Sinking’ and ‘Time Eats Up’ earlier in 2020, with ‘Nothing More’ collecting praise from Huw Stephens on BBC Radio 1, Steve Lamacq on BBC 6 Music and The Line of Best Fit to name but a few, ‘Kitchen Sinking’ earning a spot on Spotify’s ‘An Alternative Éire’ playlist, and ‘Time Eats Up’ receiving heavy promotion from the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
‘String’ is a perfect example of TV People’s personal and thought provoking musicianship. Exuding cold, sombre tones, the track pivots around precise drum beats and sharp chimes on guitar. Simmering dark undertones rumble under sweet guitar refrains and moody, lonely soundscapes as the song builds against a shadowy backdrop.
TV People craft their tracks beautifully. They expertly capture emotion through their instruments while also giving the guitars, bass and drums characters of their own within the song. It is as if the band allow the instruments to freely wander about the track engrossed within their own consciousness – a fantastic display of musical prowess. In true TV People manner the track builds becoming more harsh and expressive without losing the lonely casual pace. The drums and bass increase in intensity while the piercing on guitars embellish the track in bittersweet tones.
Penned in the cruel clarity of hindsight, the lyrics ruminate on addictions and self destructive behaviours. Evoking a sense of dissatisfaction, regret and at times anger; the lyrics give the listener a glimpse into the writers thoughts at the time ” .. as I become my own regret…”.The honest and poetic nature of the lyrics is complimented greatly in their delivery. Paul Donohoe’s vocals are nonchalant yet emotive. His deep mesmerising tones guide the listener through the track’s drifting soundscapes and brooding atmosphere.
There is something about this track that is intriguing; perhaps it is the poetic flair and artistic turn of phrase within the lyrics or perhaps it is the clever and expressive use of instruments within the songs brooding soundscape. One thing is for certain, ‘String’ highlights a moment of significant musical growth for TV People and showcases the bands lyrical depth and deft musicianship. They have honed in on their sound and established themselves as ones to watch.
Speaking about ‘String’, frontman Paul Donohoe details: “String’ is about my past experiences with addiction and using self destructive behaviour as a coping mechanism for life’s problems. In the culture we have surrounding drinking and sessioning, the line between having a good time and seriously damaging your mental health isn’t always clear. Self-destructive behaviour is normalised and even encouraged. I’ve seen a lot of people around me going through it. It’s hard to escape from even when you’re aware that it’s a problem because it’s so hidden and ingrained in the way that we socialise. The song is about the feelings of hopelessness, regret and frustration that I’ve felt in the past when I’ve been stuck in that situation and the damage that they do to your mind over time.”
Stream ‘String’ below
Author : Danu
