Elias Rønnenfelt covers Psychic TV’s “The Orchids” on Stereogum
The track “The Orchids” initially made its mark on the post-punk scene through Psychic TV’s 1983 album Dreams Less Sweet, offering a delicate ballad infused with a raw punk edge. Califone later introduced me to the song with their experimental folk-rock rendition on 2005’s Roots and Crowns, prompting me to reflect on the underappreciated talents of Califone within our cultural discourse. Iceage’s frontman, Elias Rønnenfelt, has recently been captivating audiences with his live covers of the song, and now fans can enjoy his studio version.
Rønnenfelt has been enjoying a particularly productive period recently, having released his debut solo album Heavy Glory in the autumn of 2024, followed by Speak Daggers a year later. Collaborating with Dean Blunt, he also delivered the acclaimed Lucre LP between his solo endeavors. His rendition of “The Orchids” pays homage to Psychic TV’s original rendition while imbuing it with a slightly surreal quality, beautifully incorporating an audio snippet from Genesis P-Orridge’s final interview.
Offering some insight into his inspiration for the cover, Rønnenfelt shared a personal anecdote on Instagram. He recounted a memorable evening dining with Psychic TV at the now-closed Pacific Dining Car, where the enigmatic Genesis P-Orridge regaled the group with captivating tales of voodoo dolls, ketamine, and Lady Jaye. Despite being enthralled by the conversation, Rønnenfelt maintained a respectful silence throughout the evening. Following the meal, as the group strolled back to the venue, Gen approached him, seeking support due to her need for a cane. By offering a simple gesture of arm support, Rønnenfelt reciprocated the support and inspiration that Gen had provided him over the years, briefly sharing in the burden of someone he deeply respected.
This poignant moment of connection and reciprocation underscores the impact that artistic influences can have on individuals. Through his cover of “The Orchids,” Rønnenfelt not only pays tribute to Psychic TV and Genesis P-Orridge but also conveys a touching narrative of mutual respect and support within the music community. Listen to the track below for a glimpse into the transcendent power of music and the relationships it fosters.