The Cassette in 1980s Indie Music Scenes. Issue 2 (4th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Drew, Rob
• Is Part Of: Rock music studies. Volume 6:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 138
• Page End: 152
• Publication Date: 2019-05-04
• Subjects: compact cassette -- music formats -- independent rock music; Rock music -- Periodicals; 781.66
• DOI: 10.1080/19401159.2019.1596597
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1940-1159

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The cassette format took on three central functions within 1980s independent music (indie) in the United States: It served as a means of connection among musicians, facilitated the process of auditioning, and allowed formal distribution through cassette-only releases. In all these capacities, the cassette served simultaneously as an instrument of diffusion and as a token of intimacy and community, values essential to indie's self-image. In turn, indie highlighted the commercial potential and interpersonal resonance of the cassette format, helping to save the cassette from its reputation as a facilitator of piracy. At the same time, the cassette forced indie scenes to acknowledge the limits of their communitarian ethos.