Incidental Music 1991–95 cover

Incidental Music 1991–95

Superchunk · 1995

68 min · 19 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant collection of melodic punk anthems layered with jangly guitars and earnest lyrics that capture the spirit of the early '90s.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Shallow End Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Foolish — This track exemplifies Superchunk's knack for combining catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, making it a standout representation of their sound during this era.
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    Mower — With its driving rhythm and sing-along chorus, Mower captures the raw energy and emotional honesty that defined Superchunk's early work.
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    100,000 Fireflies — This song highlights the band's ability to blend lyrical vulnerability with infectious hooks, showcasing their unique take on alternative rock.
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    Throwing Things (acoustic) — The acoustic version strips down the original's energy, revealing the poignant storytelling at the heart of Superchunk's songwriting.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic flow with varied pacing
  • heartfelt melodies for reflection
  • for nostalgic afternoons
  • engaging sing-alongs with friends
  • wave-like energy shifts

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek standalone singles only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A compilation of early work that captures the band's essence, but not a primary entry point.
Career context
By the time Superchunk released Incidental Music 1991–95, they were established as a key player in the indie rock scene, following their critically acclaimed album Foolish in 1994. This compilation showcases their transition from a raw, energetic sound to more polished songwriting, reflecting both their growth as artists and their influential role in the burgeoning alternative music movement.
Stylistic neighbors
Archers of Loaf· Pavement· Guided by Voices

Tracklist

  • 1 Shallow End Start here 2:49
  • 2 Mower 3:56
  • 3 On the Mouth 3:05
  • 4 Cadmium 4:32
  • 5 Who Needs Light 3:09
  • 6 Ribbon 3:36
  • 7 Foolish 4:49
  • 8 100,000 Fireflies 3:17
  • 9 Invitation 4:23
  • 10 Makeout Bench 2:35
  • 11 Baxter 3:57
  • 12 Connecticut 2:48
  • 13 Lying in State 2:32
  • 14 Throwing Things (acoustic) 3:24
  • 15 I’ll Be Your Sister 2:39
  • 16 Night of Chill Blue 4:36
  • 17 Forged It 2:39
  • 18 Home at Dawn 4:19
  • 19 Precision Auto (alternate) 5:07

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata