Portastatic is an indie rock project founded in the early 1990s by Mac McCaughan, during a period when his primary band, Superchunk, was becoming one of the defining groups of the indie rock scene. Starting as a lo-fi side project that allowed McCaughan to explore songwriting and recording techniques that diverged from Superchunk's sound, Portastatic evolved over the years to incorporate a fuller, more polished sound, often featuring contributions from a rotating cast of musicians. The project's discography showcases a broad musical range, from its early 4-track recordings to more elaborate productions, infused with McCaughan's distinct melodic sensibilities and lyrical introspection.

Portastatic's albums, such as "The Summer of the Shark" and "Bright Ideas," highlight McCaughan's talent for crafting songs that weave together personal narratives with broader, often introspective themes. Releases like "Some Small History," a compilation of singles and rarities, offer a deep dive into the project's expansive repertoire, demonstrating the depth and consistency of McCaughan's songwriting across the decades. Through albums like "Be Still Please" and "Autumn Was a Lark," Portastatic has solidified its place in indie rock, delivering a catalog that is both varied and cohesive, marked by its emotional honesty and musical integrity.