What makes Live at the Old Waldorf by Television notable?

This album is significant as it showcases Television's enduring appeal and musicianship, featuring tracks that have become staples of the genre. Critics praised the recording for its fidelity and energy, reinforcing the band's reputation as one of the pioneers of the New York punk scene. By 2003, Television had reformed after a long hiatus, and 'Live at the Old Waldorf' marked their first official live release. This album came nearly three decades after their influential debut, 'Marquee Moon', highlighting their lasting impact on the art rock and post-punk scenes.

How many songs are on Live at the Old Waldorf?

Live at the Old Waldorf has 9 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.

Live at the Old Waldorf

Television · 2003

62 min · 9 tracks · new wave

A raw, electrifying performance that captures the essence of post-punk with intricate guitar work and compelling rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Marquee Moon — The extended version of this iconic track showcases Television's signature dual-guitar interplay and lyrical depth, encapsulating their innovative style.
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Little Johnny Jewel — This track exemplifies the band's complex song structures and poetic lyrics, making it a highlight in their live repertoire.
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(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction — Their unique take on this Rolling Stones classic transforms it into a hypnotic exploration of discontent, demonstrating their creative reinterpretation skills.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album captures Television's live energy and musicianship, balancing familiar hits with improvisation.

What we noticed

Each song maintains a raw energy, with live crowd interactions and spontaneous guitar solos that emphasize the performance aspect.
The setlist includes both well-known tracks and deeper cuts, allowing for a balance between familiarity and exploration.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Little Johnny Jewel

The verses shift perspectives, moving from third person to directly addressing Little Johnny, creating an intimate connection.

This change deepens the narrative engagement, allowing listeners to experience both an outsider's view and an invitation into Johnny's world.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Dream’s Dream 7:17
2 Venus 3:46
3 Foxhole 5:25
4 Careful 3:19
5 Ain’t That Nothin’ 6:47
6 Little Johnny Jewel 11:51
7 Friction 4:40
8 Marquee Moon 14:09
9 (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction 5:05

What to play next

Listen next

Live at the Academy NYC 12.4.92

2003

Go back to

Television

1992

Full Television discography Artists like Television

art rock new wave post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata