Interviews: Talking 'The Farm' with Tyler Wright of TVOD

Emerging from the urban intensity of Brooklyn, the post-punk ensemble TVOD has charted a distinct new course with their second album, The Farm. Released on October 16 via Mothland and Get Better Records, this project marks a profound departure from the cityscape, drawing on the quiet and contemplative atmosphere of rural life to frame its artistic vision.

The Farm’s creative genesis was deeply influenced by George Orwell’s Animal Farm, with the album’s cover art visually capturing the iconic Battle of the Cowshed through a meticulously crafted diorama. Constructed using model train materials, the artwork emphasizes a tangible, handcrafted aesthetic that contrasts with digital design trends, underscoring the band’s commitment to authenticity. The photograph of this miniature scene, taken by a close collaborator, complements the album’s thematic concerns by anchoring Orwell’s allegorical narrative in a physical form.

Much of the album’s content was developed during a retreat to a working farm in Neufchâtel-en-Bray, France, where the band members found an environment conducive to reflection away from their usual urban surroundings. This rural setting offered a slower pace and a space to engage more thoughtfully with the world’s complexities, which is echoed in the album’s lyrical exploration of societal absurdities, the hypocrisies embedded in authority, and personal introspection.

The recording sessions took place at Nave Studios in Leeds, England, under the guidance of producer Danny Blackburn, known for his work with Adult DVD. The choice of a church-turned-studio in the Pudsey area added a unique ambiance to the process, fostering a close-knit atmosphere that also inspired camaraderie among the band and local community, including frequent visits to a nearby pub.

Integrating sound collages and sketches throughout, The Farm employs ambient farm noises and conversational snippets to create an immersive listening experience. These elements were developed in collaboration with Forrest Hackenbrock, a longtime creative partner and comedy sketch artist. The inclusion of such interludes adds layers of narrative and humor, offering moments of levity amid the album’s often weighty subject matter.

Thematically, the album navigates between broad political commentary and intimate storytelling. Recurring fictional characters named Billy and Sally serve as vessels to critique the conventional nuclear family ideal and societal complacency, mirroring Orwell’s allegories to comment on contemporary life. Other tracks draw on personal history and geographical identity, notably reflecting the band’s experiences with suburban and coastal landscapes, highlighting feelings of both escape and disillusionment.

Musically, The Farm ventures into more experimental territory than TVOD’s previous work, showcasing a willingness to vary tempo and mood. The album’s closing track, noted for its slower and more tranquil tone, stands out as a moment of catharsis and calm. This diversity in sound complements the album’s thematic complexity, balancing darker reflections with moments of joy and camaraderie.

The band’s dynamic during the album’s creation was one of mutual support and accountability, essential for sustaining long periods of collaboration and touring. Amidst this, they maintained an emphasis on enjoyment and creativity, which resonates in both the music and the accompanying sketches.

An unexpected cultural touchstone appears in the album with a track named after actress Natalie Portman, inspired by an offbeat punk performance encountered during SXSW. This choice exemplifies TVOD’s playful approach to songwriting and their openness to eclectic influences beyond their immediate milieu.

The Farm not only represents a sonic and conceptual evolution for TVOD but also offers a lens through which to consider the tensions between urban and rural life, personal and political identities, and the search for meaning in a fractured world. Its release marks a significant moment for the band as they continue to expand their artistic reach and engage listeners with challenging yet accessible post-punk narratives.

While details on touring plans remain limited, the band has expressed interest in revisiting Leeds for performances, including potential intimate shows connected to the album’s themes and recording environment. Fans can also anticipate live renditions incorporating the album’s sketches, further blending music and storytelling in TVOD’s distinctive style.