Psychic TV

The Profile

Psychic TV is a British multimedia music group formed in 1981 by Genesis P-Orridge and Alex Fergusson after Throbbing Gristle. Across shifting line-ups they fused industrial and post-industrial experiments with psychedelia, pop and, by 1990, acid house/techno elements. Closely linked to Thee Temple ov Psychick Youth, they became known for provocative audiovisual performances and a sprawling discography.

Formed by Genesis P-Orridge and Alex Fergusson in 1981; early involvement from Peter Christopherson. Associated with Thee Temple ov Psychick Youth. Noted for transgressive multimedia shows and an extensive release strategy, including a series tied to the number 23. Key albums include Force the Hand of Chance (1982), Dreams Less Sweet (1983), Allegory & Self (1988), Towards Thee Infinite Beat (1990), and the PTV3-era releases (2007–2008).

The reviews chart Psychic TV from the 1982 debut’s industrial/psychedelic sprawl to 1990’s acid-house twists and the PTV3 rock-psych revival of 2007–2008. Expect Velvet Underground and Syd Barrett echoes, TB-303 pulses, and Genesis P-Orridge’s provocations. Highlights include Force the Hand of Chance, Towards Thee Infinite Beat, and Mr. Alien Brain vs. The Skinwalkers. Performances and the famed “23” live-series ethos loom large throughout.