- published: 20 Jul 2012
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Stereolab are an alternative music band formed in 1990 in London, England. The band originally comprised songwriting team Tim Gane (guitar/keyboards) and Lætitia Sadier (vocals/keyboards/guitar), both of whom remained at the helm across many lineup changes. Other long-time members include Mary Hansen (backing vocals/keyboards/guitar), who played with the group from 1992 until her accidental death in 2002, and Andy Ramsay (drums), who joined in 1993, and who is still in the official line-up.
Called "one of the most fiercely independent and original groups of the Nineties", Stereolab were one of the first bands to be termed "post-rock". Their primary musical influence was 1970s krautrock, which they combined with lounge, 1960s pop, and experimental pop music. They were noted for their heavy use of vintage electronic keyboards, and their sound often overlays a repetitive "motorik" beat with female vocals sung in English or French. Stereolab often incorporates socio-political themes into their lyrics. Some critics say the group's lyrics carry a strong Marxist message, and both Gane and Sadier admit to being influenced by the Surrealist and Situationist cultural and political movements. Gane is skeptical of labels such as "Marxist pop", and defends the band against accusations of "sloganeering".
I pick up by the handful
the somber heap at my feet
eyes closed to see the hopeful
trusting my deepest instinct
I pick up by the handful
the somber heap at my feet
eyes closed to see the hopeful
trusting my deepest instinct
but I go on,
dawning light,
task of hope
???
dawning light,
task of hope
???at last dare to raise my eyes,
I saw the ship in the stars
strong of glittering fleet,
bringing light to the new born
I pick up by the handful
the somber heap at my feet
eyes closed to see the hopeful
trusting my deepest instinct
at last dare to raise my eyes,
I saw the ship in the stars
strong of glittering fleet,
bringing light to the new born
in a dawn light,
task of hope,
these are stars