AMG Review of Adventure [Bonus Tracks]

Stephen Thomas Erlewine
All Music Guide

Rhino's expanded 2003 reissue of Television's fine second album, Adventure, helps shine a light on this unfairly neglected sequel to Marquee Moon. Though it is ironically not as adventurous as its predecessor, time has treated it well; it may be softer and more produced than Marquee Moon, but Tom Verlaine's songwriting remained sharply intelligent and his guitar interplay with Richard Lloyd is one of the wonders of rock, so it's always nice to hear. And that's why the bonus tracks are worthwhile -- any chance to hear Television at their prime play is welcome. The most noteworthy addition is "Adventure," a would-be title track that fits nicely into the album, while the early version of "Glory" is a bit rougher, but essentially the same. There are two alternate versions of "Ain't That Nothin'" -- a single edit, which is worth having here for historical purposes, and an unlisted early run-through that's a bit more interesting, primarily because it crackles with raw energy. All in all, this reissue of Adventure is more than worthwhile for the dedicated cult of Television -- the packaging is good, the sound is great, and the extras are interesting, all adding value to an already fine album.