The Story of Merge Records: The Indie Label That Got Big and Stayed Small

Merge Records is an independent record label founded in 1989 by Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance of the band Superchunk. The label has released albums by a wide variety of artists, including Superchunk, Polvo, The Magnetic Fields, Lambchop, and Arcade Fire. Merge has been praised for its eclectic roster of artists and its commitment to quality music.

Merge was founded in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, at a time when the indie rock scene was beginning to flourish. McCaughan and Ballance were inspired by the success of other independent labels, such as SST Records and Dischord Records, and they wanted to create a label that would release music that they loved. The label's first release was Superchunk's debut album, "Mac McCaughan's Teenage Fanclub," which was released in 1990. The album was a critical success, and it helped to establish Merge as a major force in the indie rock scene.

Our Noise: The Story of Merge Records, the Indie Label That Got Big and Stayed Small

by John Cook

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	240 pages
Item Weight	:	10.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.9 x 8.5 inches
File size	:	21164 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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In the years since its founding, Merge has released a wide variety of albums, from the lo-fi indie rock of Polvo to the orchestral pop of The Magnetic Fields. The label has also been home to some of the most acclaimed albums of the past few decades, including Superchunk's "Foolish" (1994),Lambchop's "Nixon" (1998),and Arcade Fire's "Funeral" (2004). Merge has also been a major force in the vinyl revival of the past few years, and the label now releases all of its albums on vinyl as well as CD and digital formats.

Merge has remained an independent label throughout its existence, and it has never been interested in selling out to a major label. The label has always been focused on releasing quality music, and it has never been afraid to take risks. Merge has also been a strong supporter of its artists, and it has helped to develop the careers of some of the most talented musicians in the world.

Merge Records is a shining example of how an independent record label can succeed in the music industry. The label has released some of the most acclaimed albums of the past few decades, and it has helped to develop the careers of some of the most talented musicians in the world. Merge is a truly unique label, and it is a testament to the power of independent music.

The Merge Sound

Merge Records has never had a specific sound, but there are a few common threads that run through many of the label's releases. Merge artists are typically known for their intelligent songwriting, their adventurous spirit, and their commitment to quality. Merge also has a strong track record of releasing albums that are both critically and commercially successful.

Some of the most common characteristics of the Merge sound include:

• Intelligent songwriting: Merge artists are known for their ability to write songs that are both catchy and thought-provoking. Merge songs often explore complex themes, and they are often full of wit and humor.
• Adventurous spirit: Merge artists are not afraid to experiment with different musical styles. Merge has released albums that range from lo-fi indie rock to orchestral pop. The label is always looking for new and innovative music, and it is not afraid to take risks.
• Commitment to quality: Merge artists are committed to making high-quality music. Merge albums are always well-produced, and the songs are always well-written and performed. Merge is not interested in releasing music that is simply trendy or disposable.

The Merge sound is a unique and distinctive sound, and it is one of the reasons why the label has been so successful. Merge artists are some of the most talented and creative musicians in the world, and they are always pushing the boundaries of music.

The Merge Legacy

Merge Records has had a major impact on the music industry. The label has released some of the most acclaimed albums of the past few decades, and it has helped to develop the careers of some of the most talented musicians in the world. Merge is a truly unique label, and it is a testament to the power of independent music.

Merge's legacy is likely to continue for many years to come. The label has a strong roster of artists, and it is always looking for new and innovative music. Merge is also a strong supporter of its artists, and it is committed to helping them develop their careers. Merge Records is a truly special label, and it is one of the most important labels in the music industry.

Merge Records is a shining example of how an independent record label can succeed in the music industry. The label has released some of the most acclaimed albums of the past few decades, and it has helped to develop the careers of some of the most talented musicians in the world. Merge is a truly unique label, and it is a testament to the power of independent music.

Our Noise: The Story of Merge Records, the Indie Label That Got Big and Stayed Small

by John Cook

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	240 pages
Item Weight	:	10.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.9 x 8.5 inches
File size	:	21164 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE