"Icky Mettle" is the debut album by the American indie rock band Neutral Milk Hotel, released in 1994. The album features a lo-fi sound characterized by its raw production and eclectic instrumentation, including guitars, horns, and various other instruments. It showcases the band's unique blend of folk, rock, and experimental music. The album is known for its introspective lyrics and emotional depth, often exploring themes of love, loss, and identity. "Icky Mettle" has gained a cult following over the years, influencing many artists in the indie music scene and contributing to the rise of the Elephant 6 Collective, a group of like-minded musicians.