Ep 2. Take Back MTV

In Portlandia season 3 episode 2, entitled "Take Back MTV," Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein parody the music industry and MTV in particular. MTV has been on a decline, as they have strayed further from their roots as a music television station. In this episode, the two comedians want to bring back the music, as well as the culture and unique identities that came with it.

The episode begins with a music video from the fictional band "Winter Olympics," featuring a neon yellow sign behind them simply stating "music." Fred and Carrie are sitting in their apartment watching the video and lamenting the lack of music culture in modern society. They decide to take it upon themselves to bring MTV back to its roots, where music videos were the main focus.

They set out to produce their own music video, with Fred directing and Carrie starring. They hit some road bumps along the way, including creative differences, wardrobe malfunctions, and even a rogue pigeon. But eventually, they manage to create a video that they love.

The episode is also peppered with satire on the music industry as a whole. They attend a record label party, where they are forced to wear wristbands and lanyards in order to get in. They witness a staged argument between a band and their label executives, who are only concerned with creating music that will sell. The band members themselves are more interested in their outfits and social media presence than the music they are producing.

Fred and Carrie also have a run-in with a group of musicians who play "found objects." They are a parody of the trend of musicians playing obscure and unconventional instruments. The found object players perform on things like rusty springs and wrenches, and even a washing machine.

In another scene, Fred and Carrie talk to a man who claims to be a "music archivist." He collects classic vinyl albums and has a vast knowledge of obscure music. He is living in a tiny apartment filled to the brim with records, and has given up everything else in his life to pursue his love of music. Fred and Carrie appreciate his dedication, but are also wary of taking things too far.

Throughout the episode, there are also several skits featuring musician cameos, including a funny bit with Aimee Mann and a mock interview with Joanna Newsom.

Overall, "Take Back MTV" is a funny and thought-provoking commentary on the state of the music industry. Fred and Carrie manage to highlight the ridiculousness of many trends in modern music while also celebrating the importance of culture and individuality. Fans of satire and comedy will find much to enjoy in this episode.