Reviews (page 5 of 8)
First listen was in my car, which I have to say is absolutely the worst way to experience an album on first listen. Especially if that car ride is on the way to work, road trip listen on the open road, sure that’s fine but drive to work… fuck that, you’re setting yourself up for a disappointment. Sorry about that. Anyways, I gave it another proper listen on headphones and well shit, it’s weird and has some really neat vocal quirks with some great depth and the cool bits of electronic and even some elements of psych. Gave it a third listen later over a beer and I’m fully sold, no previous exposure to this release so this was another exciting discovery. Went in with low expectations based on the dogshit cover art but this album was far from dogshit. Groovy and weird vibes with a touch of J’adore Musique or shit. 5 stars
I wasn't really actively listening but... nothing really jumped out at me. I remember like these guys a lot. Maybe I'll give it another listen
Lite flummigt men helt ok
This was an extremely odd listen, and I'm not entirely sure I "got" the album. There were moments where I couldn't wait for songs to end because they droned on endlessly without going anywhere or doing anything, then there were moments in others that really stood out as almost excellent. More bad than good in my opinion, but I wonder what a second listen is needed to more appreciate the musical direction. Top tracks: Olv 26, Monstre Sacre, Motoroller Scalatron
Monotones Gequietsche! Einfach nur furchtbar!
Below average
Loving this even more than I thought I would. Love the way their songs build up with layers. Deceptively complicated. There’s clear, sophisticated music education. Overall, this is really excellent.
Better on speakers than headphones. Better when it's discordant than when it's tuneful. Singer kind of annoys me. Right album for the right time, but not sure when that would be. Absentmindedly woodworking? Maybe I'm a grinch.
Wacky French shit. Nice.
Ok. Favourite track is Metronomic Underground 3/5
this was ok . didn't dazzle me in any way but i did enjoy having it on while i do some work.
Not a fan. I know Sterolab is a popular band, just doesn't appeal to me.
Somehow I thought they were the Stereo MCs. They're not. What a pleasant surprise. This is more like a danceable indie version of Air. Yesterday I got the Talking Heads, which was too repetitive. This is as repetitive, but it makes more sense. The middle part of the album is the best. Favorite song: OLV 26
3 stars
Love stereolab and this is one of their best
Interesting album. I like how the music acts like a carrier wave for the sometimes subversive and softly sung lyrics. It’s almost like the concepts that the lyrics are conveying are trying to implant in my brain. I’ll be listening to this again.
Meh
Ok but inconsistent. The band needed to settle on a sound and go with it. There's potential here but it just misses the mark. Decent. I'll give it a passing grade but nothing higher.
Really enjoy what this is going for. bleep bloop bleep
Love it! It’s got a very whimsical sort of off kilter approach to rock and electronic, with a bit of jazz thrown in for good measure. I can hear the influence on this one, a lot of bands I grew up loving definitely loved this album
A bit too Bestival-core for my tastes. Nice vibe but not much that really stuck with me either.
Good
Nice, chill album. Kräver noggrannare bekantskap
Great album, reminded me of so many different sounds. I like the style a lot.
De la soupe. Mais pas le bon potage maison, non la vieille soupe Knorr nulle à chier.
2.5
Ganz interessant, kann man nochmal höre
I disliked that a lot..
A very pleasant listening experience driven by looped samples, this album provides a modern take on lounge music. Favorite track: Metronomic Underground
Don't get it.
Lovely, dreamy, indie-rock soundscapes. Not always my thing, but I absolutely loved this.
Weird, Animal Collective-like repetitive style. Not feeling it today
I'd like it if I was in a different mood
I had a couple of Stereolab singles in the 1990s, but had never listened to a full album before. I don’t feel like I was missing out - I liked this but nothing really grabbed me like French Disko.
Slow Fast Hazel // 2.5/5
This was fun but I'm not sure I will come back to it l. Not super compelling but fun.
Well, I didn’t hate it, but didn’t really care for it either, not even considering the language barrier. Won’t be giving it another listen…just not my thing. Two stars.
Stereolab rule. Never entirely connected with this one, however it sure has some belters. One of my favourite gigs in recent memory.
Not impressed. Sterile and superficial with lyrics in French. Nothing really interesting.
Fluffy enough that you’ll often forget that you’re listening to music, interesting enough that you’ll be drawn back into it here and there. Just not often enough.
Alright alright.
French Indie Rock. Cute and very French. Vibey French electronic.
low exciting
This was pretty great. So easy to listen to and some good variety throughout the album. I liked it and see why it's here. Fighting between a high three and low four but it got me on a good day for it.
Know of the band name, never listened. I find myself digging this opening track. Great composition. Some really good melodies. This engages my synapses with its drones. Good layering, a lot going on but it's not muddy. I kind of want to listen to this more. I like this album art and I'm not sure why. The album title sucks, but this is an album. I'd say it could lose one or two tracks to be a bit tighter. A couple feel redundant.
It started off pretty bad and then they started singing in French ...
Good listen. Great background music at work
Super chill. Need to relisten
Promising in parts I can see why some people would dig it but never quite gets there for me.
Emperor Tomato Ketchup was actually our nickname for Len’s 8th wife. Can you believe she actually used to ration the ketchup in his house? Madness considering Len was once sponsored by Daddies Sauce! 4.0
Strangely, this album grew on me as I listened to it (having thought initially I couldn't bear to hear the whole thing). Maybe listening is like tasting? You need to try a new flavour several times before the get to like it?
11/01/25 This was not what I was expecting when I saw the album. Pleasantly surprised.
Repetitive electronic music. Do not like at all.
The first track is quite experimental, the minimalism style. The rests are also pretty fun, "Les Yper-Sound" has quite a few interesting lyrics (others as well). It's overall enjoyable especially when you're bored and really want to dive into music. I'd give it a 3.5/5, probably.
This is quite original and I bit odd. It sounds like they are singing in French which I don't mind. Feels like 60s mod stuff. But just a little to regimented and predictable. I'll give it 3 stars
Very very cool. Definitely influential. Unique. Novel. Great style, cool tunes, good grooves. But there’s *something* holding me back from giving it 5 stars. Maybe it’s just how understated it is. I’d rather be an underrater than an overrater though, so yeah, it’s just 4 stars. This might be one of the ones whose score I’ll raise at the end of the project. We’ll see. It’s still a must-listen! #57
Rating: 7.5/10 Very good mix of indie rock and electronic, overall very enjoyable.
4/5 Really fucked with it
Well produced but I find the use of looped tracks a tad bit repetitive.
"Wholly futuristic and alien"
Enjoyed this! Really fun to listen to. Avant Garde and bubblegum pop at the same time. Not sure it would elevate anything past 'great to have on in the background' but will definitely come back
Fransk elsktronisk/pop. Flytande, svevande, litt lite substans
A mate of mine used to play these all the time back in the day but to be honest it was just background to us getting stoned and play FIFA on the x Box! I still think it sounds more like background music than something that really grabs your attention, very pleasant all the same.
Groovy space lounge. A type of poppy French krautrock. Repetitive but never boring. A peaceful sound that’s fun to listen to and very pleasant on the ears. Infectious looping hooks with strong, prominent basslines and squirmy synths to flesh out the sound along with female vocals that out the icing on the cake. They maintain a consistent sound and vibe throughout the album with enough diversity to keep things interesting and make certain songs pop out.
Dire. unimaginative electro-pop. Seriously, what is this drivel doing in this list?
fine. enjoyed it somewhat but not too memorable
Not really for me but I see why people like it
Yeah, nice enough but a bit meh? I like the edge that Flaming Lips put on this sort of thing.
French artsy noise -pop with funky time signatures and fuzzy driving basslines? This does very much feel tailored to me, not gonna lie - this was an enjoyable listen all the way through, and my biggest question now is four or five stars... Considering I've just listened through the demos and extended editions as well, it's probably gonna have to be five isn't it - this is definitely a band I'm going to look into more, this is what the List should be about :)
I feel like I've heard the band name "Stereolab" around but I don't think I've ever listened to them. Seems like it's kind of jammy maybe? Pretty repetitive first tune. Kinda seems like all of their songs are just super repetitive. Can't say I love it. Yeah I don't really like this at all, it's all pretty boring. Is it not in English for some reason? It's pretty inoffensive in the background, 3 feels too high and 2 feels too low.
Pretty solid "meh" from me. Not unpleasant, but I don't get along with the vocals. I hate that (mostly french) style of singing.
Enjoyed the tech/punk fusion. But each song became more annoying.
Very of its time. Wouldn’t listen to it again
I’ve never really enjoyed electronic music that much, so it gets repetitive.
Different sounding album. Never listened to this before. She sounds like the guy from Yes but it works better here
I've never listened to anything by this band, though they come up in conversation and in articles from time to time. I expected I'd like it, but surprisingly didn't find it all that interesting. Unique for sure, in terms of the mix of elements and ratios therein... also competent musically. That said, I didn't find it especially moving.
Starts off strong and fades quickly over its 57 minute runtime. An interesting sound that is intriguing at first and just lingers. Not bad and definitely a must listen, but about 10-15 minutes too long. 3/5
Enjoyed it more as it went on, some good grooves made it decent to listen to.
The 1001 list scores again! Emperor Tomato Ketchup makes the too long album list and is also a worthy entry on the 1001 Must Hear list. Freestyle Dumpling leads this Eurofeel album to (3.4*s)
It's cool to hear a different sound coming out of the late 90's, this album was decent. It started off pretty good but fizzled out a bit by the end. I liked the overall vibe, the mix of French lyrics, and the layered effects of the loops but I don't think I'd revisit. It was a fun little listen (standard edition not expanded). Some points off for the very lame cover art so 2.30.
Ok...I was into this to start. Chill melodic sounds from what could be a group of musicians working in a music laboratory. By the end it was a little tiresome. Reminds me of a softer Melodies Eco-chamber which I really do like and were certainly heavily influenced by Stereolab. Certainly don't need an expanded edition so based on just the original release, pretty good. May have to check out the Japanese film. Album (original release) comes in at 2.4.
Never heard of Stereolab but I dug their vibe. ETK was a OK listen with a couple of decent songs. Nothing special but definitely worth a listen. I appreciate being exposed to something new from the 90's in lieu of much of the older stuff on the list. Title of the album makes me curious about the Japanese experimental film. Not sure if it is worth digging up. 2.47 stars
Funky fun and at times a bit uninteresting. Thought the music was going in one direction, build to a crescendo, and then it kinda just fell flat or went back to the same old. Had fun at times with the elements they had scattered in the background moving around, but yeah - bit bored.
It was okay
Kind of interesting background music, maybe European techno ish
Stereolab es una de mis bandas favoritas y Emperor Tomato Ketchup es mi álbum favorito de su catálogo completo, así que no tengo mucho que decir al respecto, además de: Qué álbum más bueno. La combinación de Krautrock con electrónica y garage indie crean una narrativa perfecta con subtextos socialistas característicos del acto francobritánico. Escúchelo, por favor, este es fácilmente uno de los mejores trabajos de la historia de la música alternativa.
Actually better than a remember. Decent album
The kind of hypnotic soundscape I can lose myself in. Groovy layered loops and cool vocals make for an upbeat listen.
I’ve said this before, it’s really ballsy to have the first song on the album be a long one. I guess my mind wandered off because I didn’t clue in until the song ended. I thought Stereolab was a poor man’s poor man’s oasis. Get it? No, they are like the British version of Ween with a little Zappa. I’m also not sure they sing in English on every song. This album is serviceable but weird.
I'd never heard of Stereolab before, but I loved this so much I listened to it twice. Very hypnotic and cool with great production quality, writing and musicianship. Five stars.
Pretty good, perhaps a bit repetitive, but it was nice background music to have on while working
yessss
really boring
had to space this out over multiple listens, as it is a bit sonically overwhelming, but i like this! reminded me a bit of like, if belle and sebastian got real noisy and experimental with it. 3.5/5
A fun album that becomes a bit too much of a good thing in the end but absolutely worth a listen.
4 stars
The best Stereolab album, five stars. Also I met Laetitia once after a Source Ensemble gig and she was a delight. Yes yes. Krautrock and indie pop. Hence I was always going to enjoy these and lo I have done so for around 25 years so far. Find myself agreeing with many of the comments, it's less about individual tracks (opener is outstanding though) and more the record as a whole. Also agree this is less lyrically important than the vocals are used as an extra form of instrumentation. However, go listen to French Disko and Ping Pong if you want some absolute bangers with real poignant anti military industrial complex lyrics. I went straight into a Stereolab wormhole.
Starts off with two really good songs. Rest of the album is good but doesn't keep up the quality of those two.
Wasn't bad but not for me. 1/5
I didn’t like it. It was noise to me. But i admire their skill nonetheless
it was ok. didnt rick my world
This album was already on my turntable as I refreshed for today’s pick! A fun coincidence. Love Stereolab and this album in particular. This band’s vibe is just fun, and musically they just don’t sound like anyone else. Big fun.
Another album that defies easy classification. I guess I’d call it euro electro pop. Starts out with some mostly instrumental stuff that is nice as background music but evolves into fuller songs as the album progresses. I enjoyed it.
Very repetetive..droning at times. Probably not in the right head space for this but I do not see how this got 4 and 5 star reviews.
Very Muzak. Entirely too long.
1. metronomic - 1 2. reverie - 1 3. percolator - 1 4. zound - 1 5. plug - 0 6. 26 - 1 7. carpet - 1 8. tomorrouu - 0 9. ketchup - 1 10. monztre - 1.5 11. zcalatron - 1 12. hazel - 1 13. anonymouz - 0
This is a nice find and pleasantly surprised this album is so good despite having such a terrible name.
Electric music without any point or substance. It was an OK listen, but I have nothing positive or negative to say. It was just on in the background and nothing grabbed my attention. French music and language just doesn’t work for me. Favourite song: Metronomiuc underground. Least favourite: Nothing was terrible, but nothing stood out. Album artwork: Very cool cover
This album reminded me of Fun Lovin’ Criminals. It makes me think of a movie about criminals, but the criminals are cool while doing the crimes. On the other hand, it reminded my partner of Katamari Damashi, which is a little bit different. The opening track was really cool, but before googling the lyrics it sounded like a repeating “Crazy, daddy, I talk, paedo.” Apparently it doesn’t actually say that though, so that’s good. Anyway, I like this album, but I’m unsure if it’s one that took me in enough to warrant more listens.
Overall I didn't enjoy it too much, but it had its moments, and I feel like they could grow on me.
Familiar at once As sonic eras collide With joyful French rock
An okay album, I liked Cybele's Reverie
This is #day104 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... yes, this one is experimental and all that, and I can see how it might have been fun to create. But, it didn’t quite hold my attention beyond the first listen. The repetition started to wear on me, and I found myself checking the tracklist to see how much longer I had to go. While I appreciate the creativity behind it, it didn't leave a lasting impression. This is a 2 out of 5. Looking forward to #day105.
Love some Stereolab.
Greit, men kjedelig
Great sounds and everything
Man, I really need to get into Stereolab more. I’ve heard this album before quite a while ago, as well as its follow-up Dots and Loops, and they’re both great records. The dreamy vocals inspired by French 60s pop songs float over the metronomic krautrock grooves so nicely, giving a sense of melodic freedom to otherwise quite rigid song structures. There’s some fun use of electronics at play, but the backbone of the songs are always quite organic, and it feels more inspired by Can than Kraftwerk though an updated and original twist on their sound Overall a great listen, and easily a top 5 condiment album (alongside a couple of salsa records and Kick Out the Jams)
Not for me
Enjoyed it
Very repetitive. Just ok.
**Album Review: *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* by Stereolab** **Overview** *Emperor Tomato Ketchup*, released in 1996 by Stereolab, marks a pivotal moment in the band's career as they blend electronic experimentation with accessible pop sounds. This fourth studio album is recognized for pushing the boundaries of indie rock and post-rock, with its intricate blend of jazz, krautrock, lounge music, and 1960s-style avant-garde influences. Consisting of 13 tracks, *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* exhibits complex lyrical themes and sonic layering, adding new depth to the burgeoning genre of “post-rock.” The album quickly gained attention for its politically charged lyrics, lush soundscapes, and refined production, establishing Stereolab as a significant influence on alternative and experimental rock. **Lyrics and Themes** The lyrics in *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* lean heavily toward the politically infused and socially conscious, often cryptic in their delivery yet open-ended in their meanings. Laetitia Sadier’s vocals float through a mixture of French and English, embodying Marxist and Situationist philosophies that critique capitalism, consumerism, and media influence. The title track, “Emperor Tomato Ketchup,” itself refers to a provocative Japanese film by Shūji Terayama, setting the stage for the album’s subversive tones. Notable tracks like “Metronomic Underground” explore themes of control and conformity, with lyrics that dissect power structures and consumer culture. Meanwhile, “Percolator” and “Slow Fast Hazel” delve into the concept of human agency, freedom, and individual thought, reflecting the album’s overarching critique of societal constraints. While some may find the lyrics opaque, their ambiguity allows listeners to project their own interpretations, amplifying the thematic depth. Pros: - Intriguing, intellectually stimulating lyrics - A balance between abstract social critique and accessible pop sensibilities - Multilingual approach that enhances the album’s cosmopolitan feel Cons: - Abstractness of lyrics can feel inaccessible - Heavy political themes may not resonate with all listeners **Musical Composition** Musically, *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* shines through its fusion of electronic elements with analog sounds, creating a rich, textural landscape. Drawing inspiration from German krautrock, particularly bands like Neu! and Can, the album utilizes repetitive, motorik beats that enhance its hypnotic qualities. The opening track, “Metronomic Underground,” immediately showcases this influence with its relentless groove, combining drums, bass, and electronic loops that build a mesmeric foundation. The band’s use of vintage synthesizers, organs, and Moog keyboards further defines its futuristic yet retro feel. Tracks like “Cybele’s Reverie” demonstrate Stereolab’s ability to balance complexity with melody, providing an almost cinematic sense that is as soothing as it is stimulating. Harmonically, Stereolab play with minimalist patterns, employing polyrhythms and syncopation in ways that are both progressive and unconventional. Guitarist Tim Gane’s style is subdued yet assertive, allowing for the bass and keyboard melodies to shine. The organic blend of analog and digital instrumentation fosters a warm, cohesive sound that is unmistakably Stereolab. Pros: - Unique blend of analog and electronic instrumentation - Engaging polyrhythms and intricate musical arrangements - Hypnotic, trance-inducing qualities inspired by krautrock - Cinematic soundscapes with emotional and rhythmic depth Cons: - Some tracks may feel repetitive for listeners seeking variety - Lack of overt dynamic shifts may feel monotonous to some **Production** The production on *Emperor Tomato Ketchup*, handled by the band and Paul Tipler, is meticulously crafted, emphasizing clarity and balance among the many layers of sound. The mixing allows each instrument to sit comfortably within the sonic space, enhancing the album’s warmth. There’s a unique analog quality to the production that aligns with Stereolab’s aesthetic, lending a timeless quality that separates it from other mid-90s indie releases. Notably, the production relies on subtle changes within songs rather than drastic shifts, encouraging listeners to immerse themselves in the texture rather than waiting for climactic moments. “Les Yper-Sound” and “The Noise of Carpet” showcase the album’s effective use of layering, as loops and harmonies build organically, adding depth without overwhelming the listener. This minimalist approach may, however, alienate listeners who crave more pronounced production shifts. Overall, the production complements Stereolab’s minimalist, loop-driven style, providing a tactile experience that enhances the album’s immersive qualities. Pros: - Rich, analog-driven production that suits the album’s aesthetic - Effective use of layering and texture - Subtle dynamics that enhance the immersive quality of the album Cons: - Lack of pronounced dynamic shifts may feel static to some - Could feel underwhelming for listeners seeking more prominent production choices **Influence and Legacy** *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* is considered a landmark in alternative music, influencing a range of genres, including post-rock, indie-pop, and electronic music. Its impact on the late 90s and early 2000s music scenes is substantial, paving the way for bands like Broadcast, Tortoise, and even Radiohead’s later experimental work. Stereolab’s emphasis on looping structures and electronic elements helped redefine indie rock, infusing it with intellectual rigor and expanding its sonic potential. The album’s legacy is evident in its ability to bridge the gap between experimental and accessible music, appealing to both indie rock fans and lovers of electronic music. Its influence can also be seen in contemporary artists like Animal Collective, who adopt Stereolab’s penchant for layered textures and melodic repetition. *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* not only solidified Stereolab’s reputation but also helped establish post-rock as a genre that thrives on subtle, textural innovation rather than traditional rock structures. Pros: - Pioneering approach that influenced genres like post-rock and electronic music - Inspired future artists to blend electronic elements with rock - Elevated indie music with intellectually challenging themes and sounds Cons: - Some listeners may find its impact difficult to perceive without context - The album’s subtleties may be overshadowed by flashier, more dynamic records from the era **Conclusion: Pros and Cons** *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* is a testament to Stereolab’s innovation, establishing them as frontrunners in the experimental and indie rock scenes. The album’s blend of avant-garde and pop elements, along with its seamless integration of electronic and analog sounds, make it an essential listening experience for fans of boundary-pushing music. However, its lyrical ambiguity and subtle production choices may deter listeners who prefer more immediate, accessible albums. **Pros:** 1. Rich, analog-inspired production that captures Stereolab’s unique aesthetic. 2. Thought-provoking, socially conscious lyrics that reward close listening. 3. Innovative musical blend of krautrock, lounge, and electronic elements. 4. Minimalist structure with hypnotic qualities, aided by polyrhythmic instrumentation. 5. Pioneering influence on post-rock and indie-electronic music, inspiring future artists. **Cons:** 1. Repetitive structures may feel monotonous to some listeners. 2. Abstract lyrics may alienate those seeking direct narratives. 3. Subtle production shifts that may lack immediacy. 4. Heavy political themes that may not resonate universally. 5. The album’s innovations may feel understated compared to more mainstream records. In summary, *Emperor Tomato Ketchup* stands as a masterpiece of sonic and thematic ambition. Its deliberate, minimalist approach and the melding of diverse musical styles result in an album that is challenging yet rewarding. While not without its limitations, Stereolab’s opus remains a cornerstone in alternative music, embodying a unique fusion of thought-provoking themes and avant-garde aesthetics that continue to inspire.
There's nothing interesting about this album. I think it's overrated compared to other electronic albums. At least I liked it quite a bit. The synths makes it a more tolerable listen. I just like synths an awful lot. 3 stars for "Emperor Tomato Ketchup".
Strange but cool, hard to explain. Good tho!
Enjoyed this way more than I expected to. Undemanding, dynamic, happy, I think I'll be listening again.
This is a weird one. It doesn’t strike me as the kind of album that I would sit down and put on for the sake of enjoying the music. It also doesn’t strike me as an album that I’d put on in the car. I’m not sure I would ever actually intentionally play this record again. But there is something to it. It almost feels more like a soundtrack than it does anything else. It’s poppy and definitely well produced, it certainly is capable of conveying and inspiring certain feelings, but the almost ambient soundscape of it feels better suited for scoring an indie film. Lots of fun instrumentation, excellent vocals, and they clearly had a lot of fun making it. My biggest gripe is the reliance on a loop pedal, and the seemingly endless repetition therein. I think it’s mostly just not for me. I want so badly to rate this album 5/10, but I guess I will continue to round up. 3*
This is such a cool album, and it must have sounded even cooler to listeners in 1996 when this style of mixing and music-making was much more labor-intensive and rarer to come across, especially outside of hip-hop. It’s experimental yet catchy, glitchy yet polished, and so fun to listen to. It’s really just a vibe and a half. 8.5/10
Not my cup of tea at all. Very 90's discoey trance.
Erm, what was this?
It was fun and unique
bit weird for me
Daddies not Heinz.
Saucy 🍅
A perfect record
Interesting album.
I hate to keep putting meta commentary as my reviews, but frankly I'm just basically done with this sort of album being on the list. I'm in the home stretch at this point and I'm really eager to finish strong with some really good stuff. More middling British garbage isn't going to do it.
the only bad thing with this is that my french to english friends aren't willing to translate for me
Grunge? Indie? Gangsta Rap? Or how about this other sound of the 90s that builds upon the electronic and rhythmic pop of the 80s? I’m not even sure this is my style, so why do I keep listening? Why is it so good? I guess I’m a fan.
Cybele's Reverie is excellent including the organ and violin. So is Percolator and self-titled. Monstre Sacre and Slow Fast Hazel too. French lady singing over pleasant music. I wasn't expecting much due to the album art but it's quite good.
This is an all time classic and singular record which holds a special place in my heart. Absolutely love it, and it's been a long time since I listened to it.
Started off quite shaky but got good. Honestly these guys should've stuck to the rock side of the album and less on the experimental electronica. 5/10.
This was good mix of styles that made total sense to me. Really good music
This was nice, fun, and whimsical. Couldn’t discern too much range, but there was some. Also, was 57 minutes necessary? I think not. I enjoyed it thoroughly, though. 4/5
4☆/5 10.11.2024
I really liked this one. More than I expected to.
This was interesting. It was like a mix of Brian Eno, Nico, and indie. Depending on my mood, I'd give it between 3.5-4 stars.
I honestly didn't think I'd like this, but I actually did. I got quite into the groove of it. Would I pull this one out to listen to again sometime, probably not, but I wouldn't object if I was in the vicinity of it being played.
Never heard of this album, and I think had only really heard of this band in passing. I had no idea what to expect. I was blow away by it's interesting electronic sound. 8/10
Very interesting. Can meets experimental vocal music in French. I like it. First listen 8/10.
Psychedelic commie lounge music at it's finest
This album is great in concept - bringing together a truly cosmopolitan mixture of 60s French chanson, 70s Kraut-rock and 90s British indie - but in execution it falters from time to time. I already knew the album fairly well, especially being a fan of Tim Gane's first band McCarthy (well worth a listen), but Stereolab only ever periodically tickled my fancy. Incidentally, I went to see them live in 2022 and it's still one of the worst gigs I have ever been to. But while their aloof, slightly over-indulgent, and deceptively rudimentary instrumental pieces don't really work in a live context, they're pretty good on record. "Cybele's Reverie" has a bit of McCarthy's pop melodicism, but, as the title suggests, with added whimsy. Does it all fade into the background on occasion? Yes. But that's not to say it doesn't also demand your attention on occasion. On the whole, it's an album I would support with more than a hint of contradiction.
I liked the french.
This was a bit of an odd one. I didn't like it at first, but it grew on me to an extent. The enjoyable part is the soundscapes that they created. It's great as background music but doesn't really stand up to active listening.
6.5/10
this is so weird and funky but still very fun. I didnt get annoyed like I do with experimental stuff like this. It's great background music!
Not at all what I expected. Sounded like the OTHER music from Katamari Damacy. Just funky lounge music in another language. Good stuff!
Interesting. I like it
no notes
I enjoyed the French songs and the existentialist and anti-establishment tones in a couple other ones.
Did not like lol. Kinda boring
Not bad, very different from anything I’ve heard so far.
Ik vind dit album lastig te beoordelen. Af en toe neigt het een beetje naar een soort triphop, een soort Portishead, maar blijft het net wat te lichtvoetig allemaal. De opname is bij een aantal nummer ook wat plat en dat helpt niet. Halverwege zit een wat 'normaler' nummer ('The Noise of Carpet'), met een gitaartje erin en dat geluid vind ik eigenlijk net wat beter bij deze band passen. Te experimenteel voor pop, te pop voor experimenteel. Zo'n middenweg kan heel lekker uitvallen waardoor het voor iedereen lekker toegankelijk is, maar ik denk dat deze net tussen de wal en het schip beland. Ik lees in de reviews iemand zeggen dat ze geen muziek maar 'soundscapes and feelings' maken, maar juist daarvoor vind ik het dus allemaal net te karig, te dun. Hoge 2.
Viehettävä levy! Jotenkin hyvässä balanssissa sellainen keveys ja sitten sellainen eteenpäinenevä fiilis. 4/5
Hieman turhan kokeellista ja hidasta omaan makuun. 3/5 kumminkin.
It caught me at a moment where it worked for me, could have been different.
This was all right. It could serve a purpose as background music while cleaning the house.
Didn't love it, some catchy sections here and there but overall I thought it was pretty boring.
Another weird album. I heard from Stereolab the first time when they were on the soundtrack of 'One Day' and I like 'Lo Boob Oscilator', but the album of today was kinda hard to listen to.
Best oké. Soms een beetje te zweverig ofzo. 2.7
Nice background noise 3.8
Not at all what I expected this to be. Felt like it was from the 70s, but also felt repetitive.
Though I’d heard Metronomic Underground, I’ve never really heard anything like this before. The sounds feel super unique to me and it’s really refreshing. I particularly liked Cybele’s Reverie, it was delightful. Only critique is most of the songs are a bit monotonous, I can imagine getting sick of them.
My doubts crept in with this album after my partner listened to it and found it just okay, but re-listening I see that this is still an art pop masterpiece, with enough repetitive yet irresistible grooves to make anyone from Can, all the way to LCD Soundsystem, blush. This is apparent with the opening track, as its hefty eight-minute runtime can see daunting, especially with little change appearing in the song, but it is those subtle grooves that will keep the listener dancing, or at the very least, vibing, until the closing moments. And just to prove the listener wrong, the next song throws most of that away and instead becomes a pop sensation, ignoring the trends of the mid-90s (save for maybe the Cardigans) and creating something just as space-like, but more airy and floaty, something to snack on before digesting the rest of the album's various pallets. Yes, it returns to its grooves, but there's also more rock-heavy moments, such as The Noise of Carpet, and even some more acoustic stuff to break from the synths and space station elevators. An album where you'll never stop moving, and each moment, no matter how predictable, will blow you away as the next French sensation toys with your senses, and you're all here for it. At least, hopefully. I do understand why one would be bored by this, and if repetitive music isn't your thing, perhaps steer clear, but anyone searching for something insatiably infectious, this is it.
interesting album, very nice start falls a bit flat passed the halfway mark but never gets dull
Well I really enjoyed this! While the bland were looking back to the obvious, this takes French bubblegum, German motorik, funk and indie and makes something new and thrilling with it. An antidote to Britpop rockism.
Awesome album. Not something I thought would be my type of music but the first song absolutely enraptured me and then it went from there. Really glad I got introduced to Stereolab
I knew a few Stereolab songs prior to hearing this album and they’ve always been on my list to check out, so I was excited when this popped up. It was a fun listen! Hit after hit. Favorite song: Percolator Least favorite: Metronomic Underground Knew before? No
Wacky. Soft. Entertaining. Beautiful vocals. This is what I was hoping to find.
I like it. It's modern pop-rock and makes me want to listen to their other albums. I thought some of the songs blended together but I'll give it another shot sometime.
not memorable
Not really my thing. Did'nt really enjoy this.
Exceptional! Alternative to the alternative of it’s time.
This is like a more accessible, friendlier Velvet Underground & Nico (in French). I like it! The album name is revolting, though.
Opener 'Metronomic Underground' stared well but dragged on without much interest, 'Cybele's Reverie' is a good song and arrangement spoiled by an awful lead vocal, 'Percolator' is snappy and upbeat pop with a cool bass line and 'Les Yper Sound' is groovy electronica. All in all, it's a decent album of electronica pop, with some good ideas, I need of bit more arrangement flair and better lead vocals.
Yes yes yes, no no no, i think this is nice then i think about dishwater.
Great chilled background sounds, with something more interesting happening to grab my attention every now and then
Delightful Frenchy swooshes. It has the familiarity of a mother encouraging their child to eat vegetables with a tinky tonk made up song. I imagine the lyrics are quite proper and a bit Poppins, but I haven't made a single word out and I'm on my second listen.
I knew of a few Stereolab tunes before, but hadn't listened to any of their albums. I liked it, it's great for background music, but nothing that really jumped out at me with a wow.
the absolute middle between noisy krautpop Stereolab and future alien pinko lounge Stereolab, and by all accounts the best starting point. i don't think it could ever live up to the pure sonic joy of something like Dots and Loops or Cobra and Phases Group, but in terms of something rough, something analog and retro and yet as futuristic as you could muster, there's not many selections better than Emperor Tomato Ketchup. ...don't look up where the name comes from, though.
A very pleasant listen :)
As eclectic as the film for which it was named, Emperor Tomato Ketchup paints vivid soundscapes over an electronic background. The demos on the expanded edition are worth exploring.
meh.
I enjoyed it more and more as it went on. A nice discovery
Hadn't listened to Stereolab before and judging from their name, which sounds like an upscale, hi-fidelity stereo review magazine, I was expecting a sterile electronica, drone noise sound. Instead, the music is full of life, with hoppy beats, mixed with vocals from French singer, Lætitia Sadier. I'm a big fan of 60's French pop music, so this retro-ish music is updated with modern electronica, that reminds me of similar sounding bands, Ivy and the Postmarks. It took me a couple of listens to fully appreciate their beautiful sound and I'm glad this list "forced" me to listen to something I would have otherwise ignored.
Krautrock beats, lush orchestral arrangements, and upbeat woozy spacey electro psych sounds make for a fun trance inducing, very chilled out, atmospheric album. For the most part - there are a few more fuzz guitar and swirling organ driving garage rock inspired songs too, but they're at their best in the more patient relaxed sprawling mode, letting the groove carry them along. But when the beat drops out they get pretty listless and dull (monster scare). It's the 90s idea of the 60s, and it's mellow vibez. Favorites: metronomic underground, percolator, yper sound, tomorrow is already here
7.5/10
This was a good album. Had no idea what to expect going in, and enjoyed it!
I liked this one. We will see if I’ll revisit this but I liked the mix of genres
5 for Album title alone - then -3 because most of this sucked
This was boring and shit
A little whacky and kinda electronic for 1996 but nothing stood out
Turhanpäivästä hiema joo Alnumi pyörii ihan lk joo menee ykkösradarista läpi
Interesting but it did not impress me too much.
This was really just there. Not bad but nothing to full hook me or commit me. could i write poetry to it? n
Too engaging to be background music, but not catchy enough to hold my full attention. Three and one-half stars. Gaining a half-star because their track (not on this album), "Le Boob Oscillator" was used in the movie, "High Fidelity."
I like some stereolab songs, but I've never been able to get into this album. It's not bad, but nothing really sticks. Also I hate the album cover and title.
Had some moments of some toe tappin. Just not anything memorable here either but it’s very easy to listen to.
This is great. Sad I missed hearing them in the 90s when this came out.
With the first song I was like, yeah this is catchy, this is my kind of music. The next few songs weren't quite as catchy and by the second half of the album I honestly just wanted them to shut up. It kind of reminded me of Django Django but, unlike Django Django, I didn't like album. What is it I don't like about French music? I wish I knew. Listens: 2 Fave Track: Metronomic Underground Rating: 2
I dig lots of this--a good mix of cool songwriting and experimental sounds and rhythms. A 3.5, but hitting 3 for being unfamiliar and repetitiveness at times.
Incredible intro to a band I should have known and loved for a long time now.
A pretty good album, but I doubt that I will listen to the band again
kinda fire idk i refuse to elaborate 3/5
Just a little weird but had a fun little groove to it too. 2.5
Wonderful. The songs with the female vocal were better.
Garbage.
I goes for better here. It was a little boring I thought
Regular album, really enjoyed "Cybele's Reverie".
cool and weird. very colorful music
Tiene cierto interés, pero no pasa de ser un buen album sinmás.
Ok
Groove filled chill out music. It's repetitive, but I like it...which is weird for me, so something's working here. Liked songs added: - Metronomic Underground - Percolator - Spark Plug - The Noise Of Carpet
bbc radio 6 fodder
A pleasant blend of English and French singing. Grooves and melodies are pretty hypnotic - a great first foray into this 90s alt-rock band.
songs start OK but soon become very repetitive
Day205 - you can keep your beeps and boops
Weirdly hypnotic loops and amazing vocals, creates a simultaneously lo-fi and highly curated sound
Somewhat interesting but a bit repetitive
at first I was like “ehhhh” but it grew on me!!
Oh dang these guys are cool.
This type of music almost never connects with me, but they really figured out a nice, trance-y groove that had me for the entire album. This is my second time going through it, and I was fully preparing myself to ask what I actually saw in the first listen that made me love it. Instead, I received confirmation of why I do. Favorite track: Olv 26
Imagine indie rock, now make it French, now make their main influence be all of the James Bond Soundtracks. That's this album and I cannot explain any further.
Mid 90s French music really was something. Glorious stuff.
Mjög huggulegt og fínt.
Meh.
Love that relentless start. Then Cybele's Reverie invites you to pay attention more closely to the incoming dynamics. It is easy to get lost in Stereolab's looping recursiveness (is that the cover talking?), but focusing on the interpolated bursts of song or keyboard or cymbal is rewarding. Slow Fast Haze! indeed.
I like this one - it made me hanker for more French chill music. I’ve since listened to more Stereolab and Françoise Hardy so it put me in a comfortable easy frame of mind. Très agréable, n’est-ce pas?
I really like Stereolab, but prefer their songs that are not trying to make a point. I don’t think I’ve ever listened to a complete album of theirs before. I do have many of their songs from, I think, the sound dust album on various burned CDs.
This may deserve a higher rating in terms of the group achieving what they were hoping to, I'm just not sure I'm on for the ride. I liked that there were vocals and melodies, and there was a lot of movement in the arrangements, but the robotic vibe wasn't appealing to me.
Boy did I love this album when it came out. I found its grooves thrilling, the juicy, bubbly synths captivating, and the repetitive, layered vocals definitely influenced my own band. But at some point I stopped listening to this one and never really looked back. There are a couple of tracks on here that I enjoy, but nowadays I find it too sterile. I still enjoy the occasional Stereolab song (and their album Sound-Dust is a better listen, IMO), but overall, I've kind of moved on. Still 4 stars for how much this meant to me. P.S. I saw them on this tour. You might not know it from the album, but they were ferocious live. One of the best shows I ever saw.
I dig the journey on which Stereolab takes me. Soothing.
fun indie stuff, sounds like something id've listened to
I am positive as I can be that I have never heard of Stereolab or heard anybody their music before. While I like to think I have heard at least a bit of most music genres, this album defies any kind of categorization. Catchy, almost pop riffs, but nothing pop about this. The music is based on unusual chords and progressions. The lyrics are sparce but philosophical in nature, and, repetitive. I kind of liked it and I am glad it is on the list. It is something I am glad I heard once but probably won't return to
Like Slurm, it's surprisingly addictive.
Weird. But in a good way?
♥️. I spent several months listening to a live version of “slow fast hazel” basically on repeat.
lift music
As boring as an album can get. Nothing uniquely good or bad, and I can't even remember how any of them sounded. It just... was.
I liked it
Electronica, without distinction
El sonido de este álbum fue toda una sorpresa y me ha gustado mucho. Sobre todo disfruté el aire onírico y cinemático. Las que más me gustaron: Les Yper-Sound The Noise Carpet Tomorrow is Already Here Emperor Tomato ketchup Monstre Sacre
This is very cool. I have no idea why I never listened to this. It's like in between my Portishead and Pavement of that time. Gah!
I'll give it 2 stars for creativity and being interesting. It won't got any more because it starts to get really repetitive and annoying at times.
The production sounds so thin and the vocals do nothing for me.
Pop-Rock alternativo bastante curioso. Un 4.
Bonico.
I guess even among Stereolab’s fans, this album isn’t regarded very highly. This was a pretty boring listening experience, and this was on account of the repetitive and dragging nature of most of the tracks. The vocalist also sounds like she phoned it in.
I"m tired of listening to poor-to-mediocre albums, which seem to have no justification for being on this list of allegedly 'essential' albums. The curators taste is questionable, to say the least. This 'music' seems pointless to me - unless you're high and dancing. I'm sober and want something I can actually listen to.
Interesting, but not something I'd listen to ever again. While I usually enjoy when electronic music is mixed together with rock, I found the elements implemented on this album mostly annoying. Sometimes my interest would be piqued until I heard the same static noise again. I do appreciate their effort to experiment, but this kind of music just doesn't appeal to me. 2.5 stars
So monotonous, but not ignorably monotonous. It gets into my head and makes me want to kill.
This was not good. There were some decent elements, but then they found a way to repeat them until they were annoying. 2/5
First 15 seconds: trippy! I don't know any French 😵💫 It was alright. It was good background music.
This album was a bit of a slog. There were a few things working against it for me. For one it was quite reliant on electronic music, which as everyone knows, is not my favorite. Second, I do not love foreign music tbh. I am not afraid of foreign films at all because there are often subtitles, but foreign music doesn't have subtitles and I will not be translating it for myself. I'm not saying that it is below music in English, but I connect with music mostly lyrically, and if I can't understand the lyrics then it likely just isn't for me. I could see how this would make me appear intellectually lazy with regards to music, but it is what it is. The songs that were in English did nothing for me either.
This is a win. Who honestly thinks this is repetitive and boring? The beats are layered about every 4 bars and something is added/dropped constantly throughout tracks. Each track is remains unique as well even if the formula remains. I had Dark Side of the Moon last album amd that all timer has excellent tracks but it REALLY works as a whole. This record, while not nearly the artistic pinnacle that Darkside is, also equals greater than it's parts.
Some funky sounds, but a bit out there for my taste.
A hodge podge of genres, mainly electronic, with French lyrics. The vibes were good and the album was very unique. Sometimes the sound felt like it was underwater. Standouts: Cybele’s Reverie, Percolator, Emperor Tomato Ketchup, Monstre Sacre, and Slow Fast Hazel.
Emperor Tomato Ketchup seemed like something I would not like but I did. It’s avant-garde trip-hop, pop rock indie. Catchy with beautiful vocals, but slightly too long If you asked me what year it was from, I’d bet my house it was 2003-06. It’s 10 years ahead of it’s time. 7.4/10
This was great, defo worth another listen
I guess this type of music exists. And I guess there are people who go fucking nuts for it. I cannot imagine losing my shit for this chill synth repetitive sound. But it wasn't the worst thing I've heard. Some parts were pleasant.
the silly pink bunny who lives by absorbing the anxiety in my brain like a sponge and spreading it all over the nerves and blood vessels is dancing to the beeps and boops and wrangs and yahoos, the music. she absolutely loves the rythm and voice of its tentative whisper, holding it close to her beating heart. she looks around to see if anyone is watching before jumping up and down and shaking her head to the beat, but she lays down on the floor during the more mellow songs in the record. however, she never stops moving, for, if she were to do so, she would cry death of whimsy.
Was blindsided by this one! Maybe it's just that the name, album art, and first track set the bar so low, but I throughly enjoyed the rest of the album. This felt like early France Gall. Like if she didn't take the prog rock path and kept writing pop in the 90s. Dig it!
I was listening to Dre, Pac, Bone and LL Cool J in 1996, not this crap.
Very cool
Too weird
Pretty good. I was surprised by how many songs I recognised from this, including Metronomic Underground
I listened to about half of this last year, on the advice of someone from the subreddit for this website. On paper, this is definitely up my alley. In reality, it's just okay. I wish I liked it more.
Een boel geïnstitutionaliseerde vaagheid. Grappig dat dit op een bepaalde manier tijdloos is, dit had ook in 1976 of 2016 gemaakt kunnen worden. Het mist wel wat zeggingskracht, het fladdert voorbij en dat is het dan.
Als ik het eerste nummer hoor, ben ik snel geïnteresseerd. Dit kan wel eens wat worden. Een beetje vaag en repeterend, maar best relaxed. Bij nummer 2 wordt dat gevoel iets minder. Het gaat wat meer richting saai. Terwijl er best wat gebeurt. Hoe langer ik het album luister, hoe meer het naar een tweede richting verschuift. Niet, relaxed, niet saai, maar vooral neurotisch. Er ligt soms ook maar een dunne lijn tussen die begrippen. Ik besluit het later nog eens op te zetten. Die tweede keer overtuigt me. Het werkt me vooral op mijn zenuwen. Dit scoort voor mij 2+ sterren. Ik 'like' het eerste nummer. Dat is voldoende om over te houden in de playlist van dit album.
Dit heeft allerlei zaken waarom ik er een teringhekel aan zou kunnen hebben. Wazige bijna schurende zang, tingeltangelgeluidjes, snobberigheid, Frans. En toch vind ik het ook sfeervol en fijn om te luisteren, als goede postrock, als lekkere triphop, als foute italo disco, als Mart Smeets die de avondetappe afkondigt. Ik ben dus ook enorm in dubio, want ik hoor dit helemaal niet leuk te vinden. En toch vind ik het geinig. Niet 4 of 5 sterren geinig natuurlijk. Maar ik had het ook een 1 of een 2 kunnen geven. Misschien dat het de opmaat is naar een zomer vol sport in la douce France. Maar ik ga gewoon een 3 geven, maar wellicht dat dit geen vergeetbare 3 is.
Dots and Loops >. But still a nice vibe. 3.5/5
Good stuff. I enjoyed gobbling up this portion of ketchup.
Boringly ok.
Cybele's Reverie
5 under my new and improved paradigm
Eugh, I want to like this but it feels like it never ends, and doesn’t really get into a fifth gear or feel more than what it is. Theres a few motifs that I really love but maaaan, it never sustains that level of goodness.
not bad
En positiv överraskning. Många bra låtar.
Enjoyable background music. 3/5
Reminiscent of April March and the Velvet Underground. Some great elements, though some ideas are repeated to the point of monotony, and singing is off-pitch at times...not sure if this is intentional.
Not really impressed, tbh
Oh, wow, this is delightful. Stereolab was totally off my radar!
Weird. Not sure. Probably a 2.5, should listen to it more and to other material by that band.
Really enjoying this. The synth is not a musical choice I would have made, but it's not overused and doesn't take away from anything else. A bit of a strange album, but a very good weird album. Favorite Song(s): Cybele's Reverie, Tomorrow is Already Here, Monstre Sacre
I’ve never heard of this artist or album before, but this was a very good album. The overall sound was really unique, and I really loved the vocals. The way that the vocals were layered throughout the album was really fantastic. I really enjoyed that this album had a really cohesive sound and feel, even though the individual songs were really unique. Some songs had a more relaxed feel, while others had more of a traditional rock sound to them, but both styles were well executed. The musical arrangements were really fun, and it didn’t bother me at all that a lot of the vocals were in French. I loved that there were so many little things to take in while listening to this album; things like that really make an album enjoyable to re-listen to for me. Overall, this was a fun and unique album, and it’s on my list of works that I want to revisit.
Too much beeping and fuzzing
Not for me.
I thought I knew who Sterolab was, but they were something different and better.
very good very nice
Started off nicely, catchy beat, nice vocals, but then every song was almost exactly the same and you just wish for it to stop. I don't know what's so good about this album to have it on any list of "best" anything, but here we are. I expected nothing and I'm still disappointed.
New to me, and pretty listenable.
Way soft to be termed "rock." Album has a lot of real "pop" songs on it. Not a bad, light listen. Mostly 'meh. Some is downright annoying.