Inspired by UK institution The Old Grey Whistle Test, famed record producer Nigel Godrich has created a music show without overzealous hosts, audiences of screeching provincial teenagers or seizure-inducing editing and lighting.* Originally envisaged as a podcast, that format was – as with most good ideas – soon found to be financially non-viable and the program was shopped to the networks, which is why we have to make do with this highlights package from the first season.
As befits its ‘serious music program’ status, and unsurprising given Godrich’s involvement, Radiohead feature heavily, but we also have, amongst other things, Sonic Youth’s sublime rendition of The Sprawl, a glorious turn from Super Furry Animals, Albert Hammond Jr ploughing through Guided By Voices’ one-chord chugger Postal Blowfish and Eels’ Mark Everett delivering a positively heartbreaking solo performance.
While programs like The Word or Top of the Pops undoubtedly have their place, providing a platform for any number of infamous performances over the years, it’s quite nice to be able to actually enjoy the tunes on offer – and with Godrich behind the mixing desk the sound here is, obviously, spot on. As are the visuals, with the artists shot in beautifully composed, lingering frames.
Given the complete dearth of quality music shows on Australian TV, the scraps from Ol’ Blighty’s table will clearly have to suffice.
*For one of the worst offenders, track down The Prodigy’s 1992 appearance on the excellently titled Dance Energy.
