Mercury Rev's journey from avant-pop mischief-makers to purveyors of majestic psych-pop has been a unique and evolving one, marked by a blend of shoegaze, noise pop, and experimental music. Their ambitious musical evolution from the '90s to the present day has seen them explore a wide range of styles, from free jazz excursions to fresh takes on Americana. Despite initial critical acclaim, it wasn't until their breakthrough album, Deserter's Songs in 1998, that they achieved commercial success, solidifying their place in the music industry.

Formed at the State University of New York at Buffalo in the late '80s, Mercury Rev's lineup changes and musical expansions have been integral to their growth. From their early days of improvised soundtracks to their later experimentation with electronic elements and heartfelt songwriting, the band's dedication to heartfelt emotion and innovation has remained constant throughout their career. Their discography is a testament to their exploratory spirit, from their influential early releases like Yerself Is Steam and Boces to their more recent projects paying homage to iconic albums, showcasing a band that continues to push boundaries and defy expectations.