Early Tapes 1996 - 1998

"Early Tapes 1996 - 1998" by The Microphones is a captivating journey into the formative years of one of indie folk's most enigmatic figures, Phil Elverum. Released in 2016 under P.W. Elverum & Sun, this album is a treasure trove of early recordings that showcase the raw, intimate sound that would later define Elverum's work with Mount Eerie. Spanning a mere 40 minutes, these 17 tracks are a testament to Elverum's early genius, capturing the essence of slowcore and indie folk with a lo-fi charm that is both endearing and haunting.

The album kicks off with "Teenage Moustache," a song that sets the tone for the introspective and often whimsical lyrics that Elverum is known for. Tracks like "So Wrong" and "Nightly" highlight the band's knack for crafting melancholic melodies that linger long after the music has stopped. The inclusion of experimental pieces like "Feedback Loop" and "Compressor" adds a layer of intrigue, showcasing Elverum's early forays into sound manipulation and tape manipulation.

"Early Tapes 1996 - 1998" is not just a collection of old songs; it's a historical document that offers a glimpse into the creative process of a musician who would go on to become a seminal figure in the indie folk scene. The album's release in 2016, nearly two decades after the tapes were originally recorded, is a testament to their enduring appeal. Whether you're a longtime fan of The Microphones or a newcomer to Elverum's work, this album is a fascinating exploration of a musician's early years and the seeds of his future masterpieces.