EW's GRADE
B+

Details Lead Performances: The Magnetic Fields, The Third Eye Foundation and Various Artists; Genres: Indie Rock, Reissues

Merge celebrates its 10th anniversary with this set of rare and unreleased tracks by 20 of its bands. True to the label's roots, rock discontent can still be heard loud and clear, but Oh, Merge is now host to Third Eye Foundation's oppressive drum-and-bass, Lambchop's funkified big-band country, and the Magnetic Fields' baroque electro-pop. As music becomes increasingly compartmentalized, this joyous eclecticism is immensely rewarding. B

Originally posted Jul 16, 1999 Published in issue #494 Jul 16, 1999 Order article reprints

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