Tim Gane From Stereolab’s Exclusive Playlist
While innovative mixtures of rock and electro music are all the rage these days, British band Stereolab damn near pioneered this shit. Led by songwriter Tim Gane (pictured above, second from right), the band’s revolving lineup has been churning out a hearty mix of vintage keyboards, krautrock, and easy-listening lounge music since 1990.
To celebrate the release of the band’s eleventh album Chemical Chords (which hits stores in America today), Tim hooked us up with a diverse playlist of tracks that he’s been bumping. Listen to them all and read Tim’s commentary below.
Cabaret Voltaire “Nag Nag Nag” (1979)
Tim Says: “This totally changed the way I listened to music. I [transcended] into this whole world of electronics that saved me.
Krzysztof Komeda “The Fearless Vampire Killers Theme” (1967)
Tim Says: When I was writing this LP, I had a song that I really liked but I couldn't find a rhythm or any kind of progression. I went down to watch the [Fearless Vampire Killers] film and it was exactly what I needed to hear for the track. It's a super strange chord. It's over-powering but gentle at the same time.
Public Image Ltd. “Death Disco” (1979)
Tim Says: Metal Box by Public Image Ltd. is my favorite LP'it's the most powerful piece of music that came out during the punk era. It's a super strange, over the top record.
Lupe Fiasco “Go Go Gadget Flow” (2007)
Tim Says: It has melancholy, it’s upbeat, and it has a great rap on it. A great pop song I can play 20 times a day.
Clyde Alexander “Got To Get Your Love” (2005)
Tim Says: That’s the record that you play to people who say “Oh, I don't like disco records.” Put this record on they don't know that it's a disco at all. Everything starts off straight and then skews. It sounds like a super messed-up record.
Stereolab “Neon Beanbag” (2008)
Tim Says: Every little note works. It’s the kind of code that makes writing music worth it. It’s not difficult, it’s enjoyable.
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