Noisy, chaotic, and defiantly experimental, Swell Maps may not have found commercial success in their time, but their impact on music is undeniable. An inspiration to bands such as R.E.M., Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr., Pavement, and Nirvana—with Kurt Cobain famously being a fan and often seen wearing a Swell Maps T-shirt—Swell Maps helped shape the landscape of post-punk and DIY music. Now, for the first time in over 40 years, The John Peel Sessions brings together all three of their recordings for legendary BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel, a key champion of their sound.

• Artist: Swell Maps
• Format: Audio CD
• Genre: Rock, Post-Punk, Experimental
• Label: MUTE

1. International Rescue – 16/10/78
2. Harmony in Your Bathroom – 16/10/78
3. Read About Seymour – 16/10/78
4. Another Song – 16/10/78
5. Full Moon / Blam!! / Full Moon (Reprise) – 16/10/78
6. Armadillo – 15/5/79
7. Vertical Slum / Forest Fire – 15/5/79
8. Midget Submarines – 15/5/79
9. Bandits One Five – 15/5/79
10. Big Empty Field – 18/3/80
11. Bleep And Booster Come Round For Tea / Secret Island – 18/3/80
12. Let's Buy a Bridge – 18/3/80

• Release Type: Compilation
• Edition: Remastered
• Audio: Remastered audio, officially released for the first time in over 40 years

Formed in the early '70s and fully realized by 1976, Swell Maps embodied the DIY ethos, launching their own label and self-releasing the jagged, frenetic debut single 'Read About Seymour' in 1977. John Peel was an early supporter, playing their record as soon as it arrived—a moment the band described as disbelief and elation. His regular airplay helped solidify their cult status. These sessions capture the raw energy, off-kilter melodies, and boundary-pushing creativity that defined Swell Maps at their most unfiltered.

Delivery Information

FAQ