When a number of Stereolab fans mysteriously received a package stamped ‘unsolicited Stereolab material’ earlier this month, the return of the English-French outfit perhaps appeared more imminent than previously considered. Yet the band’s return was confirmed on the 8th of April 2025, with the official release of their newest single, ‘Aerial Troubles. ’ Coupled with an accompanying album, ‘Instant Holograms on Metal Film’, released on 23rd May via Duophonic UHF Disks/ Warp, Stereolab also announced an extensive international tour. Following this three-part announcement, it is safe to say that Stereolab have returned, with ‘Aerial Troubles’ being swiftly christened as a swirling, spring-time soundtrack.
Despite it being a decade and a half since the release of their last studio album, the release of ‘Aerial Troubles’ proves that Stereolab are still at their art-pop best. Promptly picking up where they left off, ‘Aerial Troubles’ naturally features the characteristic cooing, caressing vocals of Laetitia Sadier, along with Tim Gane’s groove-laced guitar. In true Stereolab fashion, the band employs whirring, celestial synths and honey-laced backing vocals, successfully making even the most surreal of lyrics into a curving, catchy number. The single opens with brooding piano notes and Sadier’s ominously dreamlike vocals, then swiftly shifts into the melodically synthesised playfulness that Stereolab fans know and love. Even though the single is undoubtedly reminiscent of vintage Stereolab sound, ‘Aerial Troubles’ is by no means a stagnant nor a repetitive release. After decades of honing their creative craft, it is a marker of a band confident and anchored in their abilities.
‘Aerial Troubles’ features all the ingredients for a successful Stereolab single and proves that time has not blighted Stereolab, nor their creative output. If ‘Aerial Troubles’ is anything to go by, then 23rd May should be marked on all Stereolab fans’ calendars with a large, red circle, as the release of ‘Instant Holograms on Metal Film’ certainly promises to be a similar, ethereal effort.
The thirteen track ‘Instant Holograms on Metal Film’ will be available on double vinyl LP, in both standard and colour variants, along with compact disc and digital formats. The band begin in undertaking their global tour in late May, with Stereolab playing dates across the UK in December 2025.