Stereolab Returns with New Album in 15 Years, Announces World Tour

Stereolab, the influential Anglo-French band, has announced their first studio album in 15 years. Titled ‘Instant Holograms on Metal Film’, the record is set for release on May 23rd, 2025, via Duophonic UHF Disks and Warp Records. Accompanying the announcement is the release of their new single, “Aerial Troubles“, which offers a glimpse into the band’s creative evolution.

“Aerial Troubles” exemplifies Stereolab‘s ability to merge philosophical lyricism with intricate musical arrangements. The track features Tim Gane’s dynamic guitar work, layered harmonies by Gane and Lætitia Sadier, and Andy Ramsay’s steady motorik drumming. The song’s production incorporates phaser effects and a rhythmic interplay that evokes both nostalgia and innovation. Its accompanying video, directed by French artist Laurent Askienazy, employs surreal visuals to complement the track’s themes of abstraction and transformation.

“Aerial Troubles” keeps Stereolab’s style and reflects subtle shifts in their approach. The song avoids overt complexity in favour of a more refined interplay between melody and rhythm. This choice may divide listeners who expect the dense arrangements of earlier works like Emperor Tomato Ketchup.

The upcoming album promises a diverse sonic palette across its 13 tracks. Titles such as “Mystical Plosives” and “Esemplastic Creeping Eruption” suggest explorations into themes of materiality and perception—concepts central to Stereolab’s artistic identity. The inclusion of multi-part compositions like “If You Remember I Forgot How to Dream Pt. 1 & Pt. 2” hints at ambitious storytelling through sound.

To coincide with the album release, Stereolab will embark on an extensive world tour beginning May 25th in Brussels. The European leg will include stops in Berlin, Amsterdam, and Paris before transitioning to North America in September through November. Cities such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Mexico City are among the highlights of the itinerary. The tour will conclude with performances in England and Scotland in December.