The Magnetic Fields is a New York-based group fronted by Stephin Merritt. Recent albums released under the name “The Magnetic Fields” usually consist of synth-pop music in a 1980s style underlying clever lyrics which are often heavily ironic. While synth-pop often forms the foundation of their music, The Magnetic Fields’ music borrows from many other styles, notably country, folk and indie pop.
2024 sees the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the album 69 Love Songs — the 3-disc masterwork that marked a significant breakthrough for the American band — being performed in its entirety over the course of 2 nights, for the first time in over two decades.
Composer Stephin Merritt will be joined by original members Sam Davol and Shirley Simms, along with Chris Ewen and Anthony Kaczynski.
The Magnetic Fields will perform the album as it was originally performed in the early 2000’s: In full order over 2 nights, with one half of the triple-disc album performed at each show. Featuring multiple singers, the band delivers signature orchestral-pop arrangements with cello, uke, guitars and keyboards.
Written and recorded entirely by Stephin Merritt, 69 Love Songs garnered universal acclaim at its 1999 release, landing on best of year-end lists in Rolling Stone, The New York Times, SPIN, LA Times and The Washington Post, and received notable praise from Pitchfork, The Guardian, Stereogum and much more.
