Ep471: Mac McCaughan - Superchunk, Merge Records

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