Chemical Chords cover

Chemical Chords

Stereolab · 2008

56 min · 16 tracks · indie rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of motorik rhythms, lush soundscapes, and playful melodies that define Stereolab's unique sonic universe.

Why this album works

'Chemical Chords' received positive critical reception, with publications like Pitchfork praising its inventive sound. The album marked a notable return for the band after their hiatus, demonstrating their lasting influence on indie rock and electronic music. It also showcased Stereolab's consistent ability to innovate within their genre.
Best for
kaleidoscopic sound explorations playful melodies for distraction dynamic peaks and valleys
Context
Released on June 24, 2008, 'Chemical Chords' is Stereolab's eighth studio album and came after a four-year hiatus following 'Margerine Eclipse' (2004). At this point in their career, the band was exploring new musical territories while maintaining their signature hybrid of pop and avant-garde influences, continuing to evolve their sound in a post-millennial context.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Neon Beanbag Standout 3:49
  • 2 Three Women 3:46
  • 3 One Finger Symphony 2:05
  • 4 Chemical Chords Standout 5:12
  • 5 The Ecstatic Static Standout 4:43
  • 6 Valley Hi! 2:14
  • 7 Silver Sands 3:07
  • 8 Pop Molecule 2:15
  • 9 Self Portrait With “Electric Brain” 3:16
  • 10 Nous vous demandons pardons 4:52
  • 11 Cellulose Sunshine 2:36
  • 12 Fractal Dream of a Thing 3:37
  • 13 Daisy Click Clack 3:28
  • 14 Vortical Phonothèque 3:09
  • 15 The Nth Degrees 4:13
  • 16 Magne-Music 3:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata