Distant Plastic Trees

Released in 1991, Distant Plastic Trees is the debut studio album by The Magnetic Fields and serves as the first half of what would later be compiled as a double-set with 'The Wayward Bus'. Unlike the deep, deadpan vocals of Stephin Merritt that would later define the band, this record features Susan Anway on lead vocals. Her breathy, alto delivery provides a stark contrast to Merritt's dense, often noisy electronic arrangements. The album is characterized by its heavy use of primitive synthesizers and drum machines, creating a 'synthetic' sound that aligns with the title's imagery. Critics often note the album's blend of bubblegum pop sensibilities with avant-garde noise and ambient textures. It stands as a foundational text for the 90s indie-pop movement, proving that emotional depth could be achieved through cheap electronics and lo-fi recording techniques. It is a transitional moment where the 'noise' influences of Merritt's early career began to merge with his genius for classic songwriting.