Stereolab
Oscillons From The Anti-Sun

THE REVIEW

Stereolab try again. To create anthologies that are not boring and predictable best-ofs. After the collection of all the live sessions recorded at the BBC studios released in 2003, it's time for a delightful box set consisting of three CDs including all the EPs produced by the band throughout their career and a DVD containing videos and three extraordinary live TV appearances in the UK. Those familiar with Stereolab know the importance they assign to the EP format. Therefore, these songs are not B-sides. In fact, besides including some of the most famous and beautiful songs (from the extraordinary Kraut-rock tribute Jenny Ondioline to the pop gems Ping Pong and Cybele's Reverie), the collection is sprinkled with several unrecognized treasures. The hypnotic chant of Escape Pod or the other Kraut-psychedelic tribute of Nihilist Assault Group, for example, would suffice.

The main reason why Stereolab have always remained a cult phenomenon is evident from listening to these CDs. Stereolab have never been easily categorizable. Nor have they started a movement imitated by other bands. Too refined to be appreciated by the pop/rock audience, too pop to penetrate the circle of intellectual music aficionados (intellectualoid?). Yet this trait is also the most fascinating one, the continuous citation and mixing of the high references of music history with the more popular ones generates that short circuit that substantiates and gives originality to their music. As if popular, experimental, and sophisticated music were constantly forced to reflect one on the other. And therefore never taking themselves for granted. Continuously setting in motion, questioning the very existence of such a boundary. This is ultimately what Stereolab have done. And it's not a small feat. Then the fact that the price-to-product ratio is absolutely the most advantageous ever marketed (less than 24 euros for 3 CDs and a DVD) should push hordes of fans and newcomers to purchase. Indeed: the three live appearances contained in the DVD would be enough on their own: Ping Pong is everything music should be: pop, fast, hypnotic, essential. Cybele's Reverie and Les Hyper-Sound are Stereolab combining pop with exploration. Melody and refined arrangements. And off with the Moog!
And it is also the only chance to revisit the interplay of vocal harmonies between Laetitia Sadier and Mary Hansen given the latter's premature, tragic passing. RIP.