C86 is a cassette compilation released by the British music magazine NME in 1986, featuring new bands licensed from independent labels of the time. As a phrase, C86 quickly evolved into shorthand for a guitar-based musical genre characterised by "jangly" guitars and fey melodies, although other musical styles were represented on the tape. Inspired by the DIY ideals of punk, it evolved into one of the most derided UK music genres in the last thirty years. It became a term of abuse for its associations withtweeness and underachievement, although some now argue that its release represents a pivotal moment for independent music in the UK.

Regarded by some as brilliant and the foundation of indie of the rock and pop kind for years to come, and by others as one of the worst things to happen to music there is no denying this legendary tape made a stir. Because you guys are all hipsters you will like it though. I like it.

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