Stereolab is not your typical band. They’re not even really a band they’re more of an idea. A mishmash of experimental electronica, influenced with 1960’s pop, and mellow lounge music that you could enjoy a glass of wine, intelligent conversation, and maybe a hookah to.
Stereolab formed in the early 1990’s in London, England. They were labeled as a kind of post-rock band, since the majority of music back then was moving toward artists like Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and the Pixies. Stereolab was a refreshing alternative to what grunge was bringing to the mainstream. The band has had a revolving door of members throughout their 19yr career. In total Stereolab has consisted of 16 members, but have maintained its core 5 members from the beginning, Tim Gane, and Laetitia Sadier are the most vocal about the music hence being the most popular members of the band.
When Sadier writes lyrics they jump from English to French and are very socially conscience, leaving the band to be scrutinized by critics as being Marxist, but they deny this claim and say that they are just Surrealists, and are driven by culture and any political movements.
Throughout all of their success from the 90’s till now Stereolab has maintained an underground following and have never truly broken into the mainstream. Their music goes against the grain which is probably why they have never been heard on popular radio, but I wanted to share this band with you Fusionites because some art can remain underground and still be beautiful and fun to listen to, even if it is just to lounge to.
The music is heavily done with Moog and Minimoog electronic synthesizers, and varies from funk to easy listening, with a fun poppy influence from Brazilian bossanova in the 60’s, while adding a minimalist sound.
This week if you are looking for something to lounge to after Fat Tuesday Stereolab is the band for you!
