#199 of 500
· Rolling Stone
“Deep enough in the list to separate casual fans from serious collectors. Pavement's Slanted and Enchanted (1993) is rock that transcends its genre tag. The original pressing is the one to find — the kind of record that stops you mid-flip at the store.”
Pavement emerged from Stockton, California in 1989 as one of the defining bands of 1990s indie rock. Led by the prolific songwriting of Stephen Malkmus, the band released their debut album 'Slanted and Enchanted' in 1992, which became a landmark of slacker rock and lo-fi aesthetics. Throughout the 1990s, Pavement released critically acclaimed albums including 'Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain' (1994), 'Wowee Zowee' (1995), and 'Brighten the Corners' (1997), establishing themselves as influential alternative rock innovators. The band disbanded in 1999 but reunited in 2010 for tours and occasional recordings. Malkmus's distinctive vocal delivery, combined with intricate guitar work and witty, abstract lyrics, became hallmarks of the band's sound and influenced countless indie rock acts that followed.
Style
Pavement pioneered a brand of indie rock characterized by angular guitars, lo-fi production aesthetics, and sardonic storytelling lyrics. Their sound blended post-punk influences with experimental production techniques, creating a deliberately rough yet sophisticated sonic landscape.
Significance
Pavement is essential to any serious indie rock vinyl collection, representing the artistic ambitions and DIY ethos of 1990s alternative music. Their records are highly sought-after by collectors for their artistic innovation and enduring influence on independent rock culture.
Slanted and Enchanted, Pavement's debut album, was recorded in 1991 at indie studios including Ardent in Memphis and other locations, capturing the raw energy of a band barely out of their teens. Stephen Malkmus led the songwriting with his distinctive slacker vocal style and elliptical lyrics, while the band—including Scott Kannberg, Mark Ibold, Steve West, and Gary Young—created a lo-fi yet melodic sound that emerged from countless rehearsals and basement sessions. The album was produced with minimal overdubs, emphasizing the band's tight live chemistry and willingness to embrace imperfection as aesthetic choice. Young's chaotic, occasionally overwhelming drumming became a signature element, contributing to the album's unpredictable energy.
Historical Context
Released in April 1992, Slanted and Enchanted arrived during the alternative rock explosion following Nirvana's Nevermind, though Pavement carved a distinctly different path with indie rock sophistication rather than grunge angst. The album received substantial college radio play and critical acclaim, establishing Pavement as essential voices in the emerging slacker-rock movement. It resonated with listeners seeking witty, literary songwriting and angular guitar work, positioning the band as influential figures in 1990s independent music and helping define the aesthetic of Generation X cultural expression.
Pressing Notes
The original 1992 Matador Records LP pressing featured a distinctive gatefold cover design and has become a collectible item, particularly early first pressings. Subsequent reissues and remastered versions have been released over the decades, with different pressing plants and vinyl qualities varying significantly. Collectors should note that later pressings may have different mastering and sound characteristics compared to original early 1990s editions. The album has also seen deluxe reissue treatments in recent years with bonus materials, so discographers should verify pressing dates and catalog numbers carefully to identify desired editions.
Daydream Nation
Sonic Youth
Shares the same alternative rock sensibility with guitar-driven indie rock and experimental production that influenced Pavement's approach.
Surfer Rosa
Pixies
Features the loud-quiet dynamics and angular guitar work that define 90s indie rock and directly inspired Pavement's melodic approach.
Last Splash
The Breeders
Delivers the same era's indie rock charm with lo-fi production sensibilities and catchy hooks wrapped in distortion and experimentation.
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