Electronic Butterflies

Electronic Butterflies: Skylab

In 1977, the project Electronic Butterflies, led by Belgian electronic music pioneer Dan Lacksman, released the album Skylab through Hansa International. This vinyl LP features a blend of electronic sounds, drawing on the capabilities of analog synthesizers. Lacksman, a co-founder of the influential synth-pop group Telex and creator of Electronic System, brings his expertise to the forefront in this release.

Musical Composition and Production

Skylab showcases Lacksman's skillful use of modular Moog synthesizers, analog step-sequencers, and early vocoder technology. The album combines playful electronic pop elements with expansive ambient textures. It consists of eight tracks that span two sides, with the lengthy and atmospheric centerpiece suite titled "Skylab" occupying Side B. This track, running 12:50, serves as a cosmic synth odyssey, drawing comparisons to works by Jean-Michel Jarre, Space, Kraftwerk, and Giorgio Moroder.

Track Highlights

Among the tracks, "Tchip Tchip" and "Stay With Me" present lively, catchy melodies. In contrast, pieces like "In The Woods" and "Funny Kuly" explore more atmospheric soundscapes. The variety across the album allows for a diverse listening experience, appealing to fans of both electronic pop and ambient music. Lacksman's production techniques highlight the capabilities of the technology of the time while pushing the boundaries of electronic music.

Release Context

Released in Germany, Skylab reflects the innovative spirit of the late 1970s electronic music scene. The album captures the essence of the era's fascination with space and technology. It also marks a key moment in Lacksman's career as he continued to explore and expand the possibilities of electronic sound. The album's catalog number is 28 471 OT.