Stereolab

StereolabCombining retro-lounge chic with hypnotic vocals from Lætitia Sadier, Stereolab are a band who ooze cool. The French/English avant-pop unit formed in the early 90s around Sadier and Tim Gane, and included Sean O’Hagan (The High Llamas) for a period. John McEntire of Tortoise was also involved. Their use of organ drones, sleepy vocals, and easy-listening gestures made them underground darlings, while their analogue sound influenced many other musicians of the period. But Stereolab themselves were also infused with influences. Neu! and other German bands inspired motorik drum patterns, circular riffs and simple melodies, while their later albums incorporated pop-jazz and even funk ingredients. Emperor Tomato Ketchup (1996) is an early highlight, while Margarine Eclipse is a fine example of the later style. 

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