Stereolab - Chemical Chords

Ironically, Stereolab’s recordings, since back-up vocalist/keyboardist Mary Hansen’s death in 2002, have been remarkably happy affairs. 2004’s Margerine Eclipse stopped just shy of being a dance album. 2006’s EP collection Fab Four Suture kept the beat. And on their 11th LP, Chemical Chords, released earlier this week, the band keeps us boppin’ along once more.

This time around, the art rockers trade the synthesizers for a more organic sound: blustery horns, backing violins, that trademark xylophone… The result is not only energetic and upbeat, but markedly poppier than previous Stereolab releases. Just take a look at those track times. Only one song passes the five-minute mark: “Chemical Chords,” a song evoking classic Stereolab that sounds like it would fit comfortably on Dots and Loops. By the next track, that pop sensibility lures us back in with the aptly titled “The Ecstatic Static,” and that sassy horn-and-violin combo returns a few tracks later on “Self Portrait with ‘Electric Brain.’” (Gotta love those Stereolab song titles.)

Bands like Stereolab with decades-spanning careers continue to flourish because of their incredible range, coupled with their willingness to experiment. That said, while Chords is unique when compared to the rest of the band’s catalogue, it can sound a bit one-note at times –- particularly for those who enjoy the band’s more rock-based tendencies (see: “The Noise of Carpet”). While Chemical Chords might not be another Emperor Tomato Ketchup, it’s a strong effort for a band this far into its career. And even if they might be settling into a bit of a comfort zone, it’s a place that happens to be comfy for us fans too.