Frog Eyes, the renowned indie band, has recently unveiled a new track titled “Television, a Ghost in My Head,” set to be featured on their upcoming album, The Open Up, slated for release on March 7, 2025. The song comes paired with an enchanting video showcasing seals frolicking near a Vancouver ferry dock. The band members—Ryan Beattie on bass and vocals, Shyla Seller on keys, Melanie Campbell on drums, and Carey Mercer on guitar and vocals—are known for their eclectic sound and profound lyrics. This latest release continues their tradition of blending evocative melodies with thought-provoking themes.

Mercer's reflection on the seal footage highlights the unexpected beauty found in everyday scenes. He likens the bustling activity around the ferry dock to an airport terminal, where life unfolds beyond human perception. The playful behavior of the seals captured in the video adds a whimsical touch to the somber tone of the song. The lyrics, inspired by the haunting echoes of past influences, delve into themes of nostalgia and anxiety, creating a rich tapestry of emotions.

Seals and Sounds: Capturing Nature’s Comedy

The video accompanying “Television, a Ghost in My Head” offers a unique visual experience that complements the song’s introspective nature. Filmed by Carey Mercer, it captures seals engaging in amusing antics near a Vancouver ferry dock. These marine mammals seem to perform for the camera, bringing an element of spontaneity and joy to the music. The footage serves as a delightful contrast to the song’s tense, intricate soundscapes, providing viewers with a refreshing break from the intensity of the music.

Mercer describes the ferry harbor as a microcosm of diverse personalities and activities. In his words, it mirrors the hustle and bustle of an airport terminal but also harbors its own hidden world. The seals' playful demeanor, captured in two videos, reflects a comic energy that Mercer found irresistibly charming. He collaborated with Derek Janzen, a long-time visual collaborator, to compile these clips and overlay them with poignant lyrics, creating a visually and emotionally compelling narrative. The result is a video that invites viewers to appreciate the simple pleasures of nature while pondering deeper existential questions.

Lyrics and Legacy: Echoes of Nostalgia and Restlessness

The lyrics of “Television, a Ghost in My Head” are imbued with a sense of nostalgia and unease. Carey Mercer draws inspiration from the iconic band Television, particularly the line "Elevation, don’t go to my head," which has resonated with him for years. Over time, this phrase morphed into "Television, don’t go to my head," intertwining his admiration for both the medium and the band. The song explores the tension between urban and rural life, capturing the restlessness felt by those caught between two worlds. It reflects on the possibilities hidden behind unmarked doors, hinting at untapped potential and unrealized dreams.

Mercer’s lyrics serve as a sonic expression of nervousness and angst, reflecting the busy, wired nature of modern life. Yet, there’s also a counterpoint that evokes the simplicity and warmth of country living. The song’s structure mirrors this duality, shifting between tight, intricate passages and more relaxed, melodic sections. Through “Television, a Ghost in My Head,” Frog Eyes delivers a poignant meditation on the complexities of contemporary existence, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences and aspirations. The forthcoming album, The Open Up, promises to expand on these themes, offering a collection of songs that resonate deeply with anyone who has ever felt torn between different aspects of life.