[Photos] Stereloab @ 9:30 Club

I am a bit spoiled when it comes to Stereolab. When I lived in NYC from '97-'03 I must have seen them 10 times in that period and I never paid for a single show. My roommate and one of my best friends both worked for Elektra, so I could always find a free ticket when they came through. Looking back I don't think I realized that I was getting to see the band on a regular basis smack in the middle of their heyday. Much like Luna, I took these guys for granted because they were always around, always releasing records and always playing shows in the city.

Five or so years on and one amazing show in D.C. and I am falling back in love with the 'Lab. it certainly doesn't hurt that they are touring behind their supremely catchy new record Chemical Chords (pick it up if you haven't already). The set alternated between old faves ("Ping Pong", "Lo Boob Oscillator") and soon to be faves ("Neon Beanbag") and was totally enthralling. I am so mad that NPR wasn't there (are they out of money for the concert budget or something, they've been very silent in the last few months), but luckily NYC Taper was on the scene at Irving Plaza.

My only regrets were leaving before the band played "Cybele's Reverie" (I was exhausted) and not getting to hear the dearly departed Mary Hansen sing back up vocals on songs like "Lo Boob Oscillator." I am a sucker for backing vocals and Mary was one of the best. That was my first time seeing the band since her passing and she was definitely missed.

The band are on tour in the US and Canada until the end of the month. Go see 'em!

[Photo Gallery]
Stereloab @ 9:30 Club