The Shouting Matches Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is The Shouting Matches? A Brief Career Overview

The Shouting Matches are an electrifying indie rock trio born out of the creative spirit of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, featuring the extraordinary talents of Justin Vernon, renowned as the frontman of Bon Iver, Phil Cook from Megafaun, and Brian Moen of Peter Wolf Crier. Together, they delve into a musical cauldron that simmers with rootsy blues-rock and indie charm--drawing inspiration from rock legends, while adding their own unique flavor. The Shouting Matches burst onto the scene with their debut album, Grownass Man, released in April 2013, showcasing their knack for crafting earthy melodies layered with raw emotion. 

This trio is notable not just for their captivating tunes, but also for their contributions to the vinyl culture, with their music resonating on that timeless medium. The Shouting Matches have captivated audiences with their soulful sound, making significant waves in the music industry and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of collectors and casual listeners alike.

The Shouting Matches's Early Life and Background

The Shouting Matches were shaped by the rich musical landscape of Eau Claire, where all three members found their beginnings. Justin Vernon, born on April 30, 1981, grew up in a family with a penchant for music, leading him to create his first band in high school. Phil Cook and Brian Moen, too, found their musical roots in the vibrant local scene, influenced by a close-knit community that celebrated shared creative expression.

In their formative years, each member underwent personal journeys that deepened their connection to music as a form of storytelling and emotional release. With family backgrounds that embraced artistic endeavors and a modest upbringing, the trio learned the value of authenticity and creativity--a thread that weaves through their music and links them to the vinyl records they came to cherish. Their initial encounters with vinyl sparked a love for the tactile nature of music, inspiring them to produce and release their own records in the format they adored.

The Musical Influences That Shaped The Shouting Matches's Sound

The Shouting Matches's music is a vibrant tapestry woven from various influential threads. Their sound is heavily influenced by classic rock and blues musicians, entwining the heartland roots of Tom Petty with the soulful grooves of modern indie. Artists like Bob Dylan and Band of Horses have left an imprint on their songwriting, ensuring that their music feels both timeless and contemporary. The raw energy of blues and the lyricism of folk spill into their work, creating an organic sound that tends to resonate with vinyl collectors.

The passion for vinyl was especially significant during their youth, as the band's members sought out vinyl records by their idols. Those cherished albums from classic artists have undoubtedly influenced their approach to songwriting and sound production, demonstrating a deep respect for the medium that brings music to life in the most visceral way.

How The Shouting Matches Entered the Music Industry

Originating their journey in the burgeoning Eau Claire music scene, The Shouting Matches began as a gathering of friends who shared a common love for music. The band's members gigged locally, honing their craft and building a loyal following before officially recording their debut EP, Mouthoil. Their first full-length album, Grownass Man, released in 2013, marked a significant milestone in their pursuit of capturing the raw magic of their live performances on vinyl.

Initial challenges in producing their music on vinyl pushed the band to explore unique pressing options, allowing them to embrace that classic sound they grew up adoring. As they began to shape their signature sound, their perseverance paid off, and they found themselves breaking into larger markets--garnering attention from fans and the industry alike, which eventually led to opportunities to produce physical records cherished by vinyl enthusiasts.

The Shouting Matches's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

The Shouting Matches's breakthrough moment came with the release of their debut album, Grownass Man, which struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. This collection of tracks, pressed onto high-quality vinyl, showcased their exceptional talent and provided listeners with a dynamic auditory experience that few could resist. Notable tracks like "Avery" and "Heaven" exemplify the band's unique sound and have become staples of their live performances.

The public responded enthusiastically, leading to chart success and a growing list of accolades. Media appearances and performances at festivals helped propel them into the spotlight, securing their place as innovators within the indie blues-rock genre. Their journey from small local venues to larger stages marked a transformative chapter in their career, ensuring their music resonates on both airwaves and vinyl across the globe.

How Personal Life Shaped The Shouting Matches's Music

The Shouting Matches's music often reflects the personal experiences of its members. Themes of love, loss, and personal struggle run deep in their lyrics--a narrative forged through significant relationships and struggles encountered in their lives. The honesty and vulnerability present in their songwriting invite listeners to connect on a deeper level, embodying the emotional essence of the blues tradition. Inspirations from personal challenges and relationships provide the backdrop for heartfelt lyrics that attract fans and vinyl collectors alike.

The trio's commitment to their artistic expression extends beyond music, with each member being involved in philanthropic efforts that align with their values. Their shared journeys have helped shape their identities as artists, often coloring their music with reflections of their passions and experiences.