Mac McCaughan of Superchunk and co-founder of Merge Records shares insights into the label, being a record collector, "Peak Vinyl" limited vinyl releases, vinyl production, Superchunk's upcoming tour in Australia and heaps more. 

Topics Include:

  • We welcome Mac McCaughan from Superchunk and Merge Records.
  • Mac's upcoming tour in Australia to celebrate Foolish's 30th anniversary.
  • Playing songs from multiple albums instead of full album sets, mixing up live performances.
  • Mac's extensive vinyl collection and love for record collecting.
  • Recent Japan trip, grabbing Japanese jazz records
  • Record store treks while touring and discovering rare finds.
  • Merge Records' inspirations from indie labels like Dischord and Sub Pop.
  • Emphasizing affordable, fan-focused pricing for Merge releases.
  • Mac’s approach to managing Merge as an artist-driven label.
  • Importance of creativity and quality in Merge's artist partnerships.
  • Record label survival and growth strategies and adapting to changing music industry landscapes.
  • Evolution of 7-inch singles over last 40 years
  • Mac is kind of surprised on vinyl's comeback and staying power
  • The rising costs of vinyl production.
  • Navigating fan interest in coloured versus black vinyl releases.
  • Merge's “Peak Vinyl” concept for collectors’ special editions.
  • Handling vinyl production challenges and partnerships with pressing plants.
  • Vinyl costs are starting to slow down record purchases – capacity of vinyl pressing plants
  • What was difficult about moving from musician to record label owner?
  • Records that fell short of expectations
  • How Mac and Merge team listens to artists for potential Merge engagement
  • Listening past the budget/lo-fi qualities of demo recordings
  • Mac’s response to hearing Neutral Milk Hotel
  • Reflecting on follow-ups to “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea”.
  • Australian record stores / Mac’s want list
  • Interview wrap up

See Superchunk in Australia, here be the tickets

Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide

Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

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