Mandela Hall

Stereolab are a British-French band formed in London in 1990. The group was led by the songwriting duo of Tim Gane and Lætitia Sadier, who were the only consistent members throughout the band's history. Gane played guitar and keyboards, while Sadier contributed vocals, keyboards, and guitar. The band incorporated vintage electronic keyboards and repetitive motorik beats, drawing influence from styles such as krautrock, lounge music, jazz, and 1960s French pop. Their lyrics often contained political and philosophical themes influenced by Surrealist and Situationist art movements. Stereolab was formed following the breakup of the band McCarthy. Mary Hansen, who joined in 1992, provided backing vocals, keyboards, and guitar until her death in 2002. Andy Ramsay, who joined in 1993, played drums. Sean O'Hagan of The High Llamas was a member from 1993 to 1994 and made occasional guest appearances on later records. The band achieved moderate commercial success and was released from their contract with Elektra Records. They operated their own label, Duophonic, which signed distribution deals with Too Pure and later Warp Records.