A very worthwhile compilation of some of Stereolab's best
E. MCCORD | NYC | 12/20/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This new double CD sort of functions as both a greatest hits collection and a quasi-live album at the same time. Compiling all of Stereolab's Radio 1 sessions, this set features songs from nearly every phase of the 'Lab's constantly evolving massive body of work. It's amazing to hear, although the more raw qualities of a band performing on the radio are definitely evident here, how polished the band sounds in these recordings. The early, more guitar-centered songs like "Super-Electric" and "Laissez Faire" sound great, but it's the songs from the "Emperor Tomato Ketchup" and "Sound-Dust" eras that are most fun and revelatory to hear in this 'live' setting. The inclusion of some very good songs that you probably haven't heard anywhere else before ("Moogie Wonderland" and the awesome "Heavy Denim") makes 'ABC Music' an essential buy for Stereolab fans--even though they'll already have the studio versions of most of these songs. God, I sound like I'm working for Amazon.com, but it really is worth getting. I have found myself preferring the songs from "Sound-Dust" on this compilation better than the ones on the actual record.
We'll miss you, Mary."
If you are searching for Stereolab, you need this.
jdquillen | Portland, OR USofA | 02/12/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you are searching for Stereolab, this is the release you need. 2 CD set is excellent. It is not like hearing them live but it is not as polished as a studio album either. It is an essential addition to any long time fan's collection and serves as a very good introduction to the Groop for anyone just discovering this awesome band. Mary R.I.P."