On their 12th release, art-pop act Stereolab float deeper into the post-rock atmosphere. They still draw from Ennio Morricone and Henry Mancini when creating their own fantasy soundtracks, but Sound-Dust lacks the dynamic ... more »interplay that invigorated Cobra and Phases Group Play Voltage in the Milky Night. The disc is all easy-listening lounge that's almost too gentle on the ears. There are no urgent sonic experiments, and only three tracks really spark to life: "Spacemoth," "Captain Easychord," and the Kubrick-inspired "Gus and the Mynah Bird." "Easychord" is the catchiest song on the album, containing the CD's most ebullient melody-emitting, warped, country-twanged notes. Beyond that, Stereolab fans should prepare for a very sedate, mature affair. --Jennifer Maerz« less
On their 12th release, art-pop act Stereolab float deeper into the post-rock atmosphere. They still draw from Ennio Morricone and Henry Mancini when creating their own fantasy soundtracks, but Sound-Dust lacks the dynamic interplay that invigorated Cobra and Phases Group Play Voltage in the Milky Night. The disc is all easy-listening lounge that's almost too gentle on the ears. There are no urgent sonic experiments, and only three tracks really spark to life: "Spacemoth," "Captain Easychord," and the Kubrick-inspired "Gus and the Mynah Bird." "Easychord" is the catchiest song on the album, containing the CD's most ebullient melody-emitting, warped, country-twanged notes. Beyond that, Stereolab fans should prepare for a very sedate, mature affair. --Jennifer Maerz
"After "First of the Microbe Hunters," I thought the groop had hit a stylistic block. There were a few good songs on that release, but overall the band was treading water. However, Stereolab have completely redeemed themselves with "Sound-Dust," which is IMHO their best since "Emperor Tomato Ketchup." Fans of their earlier stuff may be disappointed - the primitive, analog synths have entirely disappeared. Their new sound is much lighter, almost orchestral, with great vocals and lots of horns, flute, and electric piano. As usual, they plunder melodies from the 60s and 70s, combined with minimalist percussion reminiscent of Steve Reich. The album is extremely diverse while at the same time completely coherent. However, what most strikes me about this album is the song-writing - there are lots of great, unpredictable song shifts, catchy lyrics, and weird melodies that worm their way into your brain and won't get out. For example, check out the way "Space Moth" begins like a movie soundtrack before abruptly shifting into a disco number, or the country guitar that suddenly intrudes into "Captain Easychord," or the way Laetitia manages to sound earnest while singing the lyrics: "You're not a doctor, you're a wanker." And is that emotion creeping into Laetitia's voice on "The Black Arts?" Lots of fun and highly recommended."
Worth the effort it might take
Sir Grand Citizen | Earth | 06/15/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Ever have one of those albums?
An album where you spin it a few times and a few songs might sink-in, but the majority seem wrapped in gauze? Then-- ONE DAY -- it hits you, the genius behind the songs, the hidden melodies, the amazing musicianship?
That was my experience with this album. It took 2 years of (very) sporadic listenings to suddenly be hit in the head with just how flat-out AMAZING this album is. A few songs are easy and accessible (ie. "Captain Easychord"), while others may take a few listens to *really* appreciate--- but it's worth the effort. (as a comparison, I found "Margerine Eclipse" very easy to get-into, while it took a while for "Dots & Loops" and "Cobra & Phases" to really sink-in).
Very highly recommended, once it hits you, it will stay with you and grow-stronger with repeat-listens."
A Must for Sereolabers
S. Loetterle | San Francisco | 03/07/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Not sure what some of the reviewer's here are talking about. This is simply put, a fantastic album. If you consider yourself one of those who can see the rich brilliance of stereolab's offerings throughout the years, then you've got to get it. It flows, it's moody, funky, and lovely.
Baby Lulu is currently my fav, but they're all complex and original enough that it takes me a while to realize each songs awesomeness. Newbies can try Emperor Tk or Dots and Loops, but real fans shouldn't miss this."
Unjustly Dissed
Mantis Lake | Detroit, MI USA | 11/19/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"CD
Prior to purchasing "Sound-Dust", I read several reviews that hinted at Stereolab treading old ground. I'm not sure exactly what these snobs were expecting, but what I got is a beautiful, magical album that gets better and better every time I hear it.
Now I'm not going to lie, the album won't surprise you too much if you're familiar with their work of the late 90's and early aughts. But they add so much to it. There are moments of pure audio bliss. I liked this album quite a bit upon my first listen, but there were also some things that disappointed me. The vocals sounded forced in spots, and I didn't like some of the arrangements. Upon repeated listenings, everything blends seamlessly. The songs are beautiful, complex, just...lush. And not cheesey either. How a band can have so many "la la la's" in the background and not sound corny at all is truly amazing. A buncha stuff going on and still completely accessible.
I listen to everything from country to metal but I'm very picky about every category. I've never heard a band like this before. Their music appeals to me on almost every level of musical enjoyment. They don't quite do for me what good old-fashioned punk rock will (though their live shows are just as fun) but it's as if Stereolab fused together all these kinds of music that some might categorize as "background" and demanded attention from it.
If you like Stereolab or adventurous music at all, I can't imagine that you won't enjoy this CD. I guess in any review Stereolab would be categorized as "alternative" and I suppose that's as good a grouping as any, but still doesen't do the groop justice. No songs particularly stand out. I like some more than others but if you like it, you'll like all of it. This disc might be my favorite of theirs. Don't pass this one up.
"
Superb album ---my favorite along with Margerine Eclipse
spacetripper | 02/27/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album has some gorgeous music. I have 6 of Stereolab's albums, and I love this one and Margerine Eclipse the best. The songs just flow and sway into one another. I am surprised anyone would have a criticism of this album and think it boring. It is anything but that! #3 is a personal favorite!"