The Celestial Soundwaves of Telenova
Photos by Eloise Beath
Melbourne based Alt-indie pop trio Telenova want to transport you to their cinematic tapestry of sound and emotion. Consisting of lead vocalist Angeline Armstrong and multinstrumentalists and producers Edward Quinn (Slum Sociable) and Joshua Moriarty (Miami Horror). Their unique sound and stunning creative vision have garnered them millions of listens across streaming platforms, headline shows around the world and have now led them back to their hometown for a sold-out night of silky vocals and celestial soundwaves.
The crowd piled into iconic Melbourne venue The Night Cat. The room brimming with energy. The trio literally surrounded by their fans thanks to its immersive 360 degree stage, opened with their ethereal disco dance track Power. A lyrically powerful bop examining the human desire for connection, whether it be romantic or something deeply spiritual. Cos I can’t afford to lose you now / I need your power //. Despite the yearning lyrics, the track packs a punch with its infectious bassline and sparkly production.
Released in August, Telenova's ‘BITCRUSH’ is a genre bending 3-track EP that explores confusion, faith and fear. Third on the setlist was the title track BITCRUSH, the trio have described as “a song about the state of the world and the state of our hearts”. It dissects the idea that over time, our perception of our world can warp and alter when exposed to circumstances in and out of our control. A slightly sultrier production quality for the band that crescendos during the chorus to their signature alt-pop groove.
Armstrong really is the star of the show. The frontwoman utilises every inch of the stage, manoeuvring with ease and confidence. Ensuring she engages with all 4 sides of her audience, no doubt an overwhelming experience for any performer. Bandmates Quinn and Moriarty donned oversized suits as they cruised around on stage, oozing old-school suave.
Crowd favourite was no doubt the trio's debut single Bones, released in 2021. An enchanting and cinematic track exploring the disillusionment of a dream or of a person and that feeling of being trapped in your own head. The crowd roared as Armstrong crooned, Kill me softly, make me scream / Call me crazy, set me free / Everything I wanna be //. The track is a sleek earworm that, days later, I still find myself singing around the house
The show wrapped up with Discotheque Inside My Head. A psychedelic disco infused summer groove about learning to dance along with the noise and self doubt we battle against in our everyday lives that leaves us spinning out in our head. An uplifting reminder that even amongst the mental chaos, there’s still time to dance.
Telenova’s bold production and vivid storytelling is spellbinding from the very first beat. Unafraid to experiment with their sound, the trio has built a unique pocket in the Australian music scene with what will no doubt be a long and flourishing career.
Stream BITCRUSH here!