Aaron Tanner

Aaron Tanner is a prominent graphic designer, musician, and underground music archivist based in Evansville, Indiana. He serves as the Publisher, Editor-in-Chief, and Creative Director at Melodic Virtue, a company he founded in 2004. Melodic Virtue specializes in creating limited-run coffee table books that document the visual histories of underground bands, offering an immersive experience through compelling design, rare photographs, and firsthand anecdotes from fans and contemporaries.123

Tanner's design career began early, influenced by the visuals of his Midwest surroundings. He gained recognition within the underground music community and has been the resident designer for the band Ween for over 20 years. His work includes collaborations with notable bands such as Explosions in the Sky, Pinback, and Ministry.124 One of his significant achievements is the creation of PIXIES: A Visual History, Volume 1, which received multiple national awards and helped establish his reputation in publishing.12

Tanner's approach combines a DIY ethic with a commitment to preserving the legacies of underrepresented artists. His publications are not only visually striking but also serve as important cultural artifacts, earning places in prestigious institutions like the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.134