Televandals have something to say, and they think you should hear it. This local band has been lighting up stages in Boston and New York with their unique sound that they hope will touch your soul, force you to think, and most importantly, make you want to dance like hell. Not easily classified, Televandals take inspiration from a wide range styles that includes old-school punk, 80s British dark wave, and electro-synth dance.

Bostonist talked with the band in advance of their performance in round three of the Emergenza music competition this upcoming Tuesday. Tickets are $12 in advance, $18 at the door. Show is 18+ and being held at the Paradise Rock Club. Check out their MySpace for full show information.

Sum up the essence of Televandals in one word.
Transcendent.

You talk a lot about social uprising, speaking out against injustice, etc. If you could get out one singular message, have people take one thing away from
your music, what would you want it to be?
The most important message we have to impart on people through our music is that of awareness. You gotta know what's happening around you... you gotta think for
yourself. There is no sin greater than indifference, especially when there is so much injustice and inequality we must live with. Don't live your life like a puppet... make your own future.

How do you feel about Boston's music scene? Has it been welcoming/helpful/frustrating?
The scene is very indie-rock centric at the moment, but we're starting to see it evolve with more electro-based acts and hybrid groups. Overall, it's an already diverse scene that's continuing to diversify if you know where to look. It's an interesting time to
be a band playing in Boston.

What is your favorite thing about playing live music?
The real attraction to playing live is the chemistry you can develop with an audience as a show progresses. There is nothing more amazing that having an audience
feed off your energy and vice-versa. When you and the crowd are in lock-step with each other, the result is nothing short of inspirational and just elevates you
even more as a performer. It proves the cynics are wrong... you can make a difference through music.

What is the most annoying 'thing' about playing gigs, etc.?
Having to break down all your gear after your set and haul it out of the venue. Anyone who thinks being in a band is all glamour and excitement has never had to
move amps and gear around after 45 minutes or more of playing your ass off.

What is your favorite tactile feeling?
The subtle heat of stage lights.

What is your least?
A recently-used microphone against your lips.

Any bands, local or otherwise, that you're really loving right now?
Our friends the Simple Pleasure from New Haven... a fantastic synth-soul-rock act. Also our friends To The Masquerade, who we'll be playing with at the Paradise
this Tuesday.

What is one band/musical act that you'd rather not admit to liking, but can't help it?
We only listen to good music.

Finally, why should people come and support you
and learn about Televandals?
When Televandals take the stage, it's about raw, unceasing energy and passion. We want you to leaving feeling inspired, that you can rise above the disillusionment and despair to truly make a difference with your life. And if you feel a sense of grandeur,
hope, inspiration or immortality when you leave that night, then we have succeeded.

Televandal's debut LP, Madison Avenue Reality, is available on iTunes now.