Stereolab

There does seem to be an understandable divide between fans over preference of their newer vs. their older work, the division occurring around 1996 with Emperor Tomato Ketchup. I prefer the more varied, later stuff, especially 1997-2004 - . I enjoy the production quality, the old-school synthesizers, horn/string arrangements, and references to various musical styles of the past from fusion jazz, early rock, and contemporary/avant-garde classical styles. They manage to be so funky and so European at the same time. For my personal taste their earlier albums are really boring and monotonous in comparison. It is good to see an artist/collective evolve and change their styles over time. While it is unfortunate that they went on hiatus, possibly never to return again, it seems appropriate as after Mary Hansen's death they really seemed to stagnate. MY OPINIONS LOL

EDIT: i would like to add that this is one of the most beautiful songs I know.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dJpdGE4dfE