What makes Not Music by Stereolab notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, garnering positive reviews from outlets like Pitchfork, which appreciated its adventurous spirit and intricate production. Additionally, it marked a significant moment in Stereolab's career as they continued to influence the indie rock scene with their distinct blend of genres and sounds. Not Music is Stereolab's first release after their hiatus following the 2008 album Chemical Chords. By this time, the band had established themselves as pioneers of the avant-pop genre, blending elements of electronic music and post-rock while continuing to evolve their sound. The album showcases their commitment to innovation and experimentation in music-making.

Who is Not Music for?

Not Music works well if you're into whimsical melodies with hypnotic grooves, wave-like pacing with peaks and playful experimentation throughout tracks.

How many songs are on Not Music?

Not Music has 13 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Not Music

Stereolab · 2010

56 min · 13 tracks · indie rock

An eclectic amalgamation of playful melodies, experimental textures, and vibrant rhythms that challenge conventional song structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Everybody's Weird Except Me — This track opens the album with a catchy melody and witty lyrics that encapsulate Stereolab's unique charm and playful critique of societal norms.
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Supah Jaianto — Blending upbeat rhythms with infectious hooks, this track exemplifies the band's signature mix of pop sensibility and experimental flair.
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Silver Sands (Emperor Machine mix) — This extended remix adds layers of complexity, showcasing Stereolab's ability to transform a track into an immersive sonic experience through repetition and variation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate production and unique song structures, making it distinct yet cohesive within its avant-pop genre.

What we noticed

Many songs incorporate unexpected shifts in dynamics, such as sudden drops to minimal arrangements before building back up.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

whimsical melodies with hypnotic grooves
wave-like pacing with peaks
playful experimentation throughout tracks
engaging headphone detail exploration

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Not Music is Stereolab's first release after their hiatus following the 2008 album Chemical Chords. By this time, the band had established themselves as pioneers of the avant-pop genre, blending elements of electronic music and post-rock while continuing to evolve their sound. The album showcases their commitment to innovation and experimentation in music-making.
Stylistic neighbors: Tortoise· The High Llamas· Broadcast