10/10/2007
New Radiohead Album: First Impressions
This morning, as expected, I checked my inbox and saw a message from Radiohead's Waste.uk store. Inside was a link to download their new album, In Rainbows, which I am happy to say, I did not pay much money for.
I have listened to the album and here is a quick run-down of my first impressions, track-by-track:
15 Step:
The album opens with this electronic percussion free-for-all. Not much different then the live version, just a better recording and some nice vocal effects. This would not be out of place on Amnesiac
Body Snatchers:
Now this is what I am talking about. Old-school Radiohead. Well, as old-school as they get these days. This is a furious, paranoid song that has a unrelenting fuzzed-out guitar groove. If this song doesnt get you psyched about the band again, not sure what will. Best song on the album.
Nude:
Awesome. Think "How to Disappear Completely" R&B style. Thom's still got the chops!
Weird Fishes/Arpeggi:
Nothing special here, just a cool Radiohead song...in the vein of OK Computer
All I Need:
Now this song is absolutely amazing. Huge pianos, synthesizers and Thom's voice about to be consumed by reverb, swelling strings and Phil's epic drumming.
Faust Arp:
Whoa. This one wouldn't be out of place on The Beatles White Album. A slow number with gorgeous guitar picking, elegant strings, and Thom's voice double-tracked. Perfect.
Reckoner:
Long-time live favorite and every fanboy's hope for inclusion on some album, this one relies heavily on layered percussion and Thom's voice.
House of Cards:
Some bizarre mix of Krautrock and R&B. It's Radiohead in lullaby mode. Not my favorite track on the album.
Jigsaw Falling into Place:
Now we return to your previously scheduled program, "OK Computer 2." Acoustic guitar grooves and an angsty, saucey Yorke eventually wind up in a small frenzy. Cool, but nothing new.
Videotape:
The closing track is a somber song (big surprise) with off-kilter drums and a ghostly choir. It's a good song with good lyrics, but it's VERY anti-climactic.
Overall, the album is a nice mix of Radiohead's past with a peak into a possible future. Nothing here breaks new ground, just another collection of solid songs..well worth the 5 bucks.
Below you can download what I think is the best song on the album. I'm pretty sure the full album is still available as a download for however much you want at The Radiohead Website.
MP3
Download 'Radiohead - Body Snatchers'4:02 | 4.62MB
Posted by Michael on 10/10/2007 10:06 AM in Electronic, Rock
- Post To:
Digg
del.icio.us
Send to Friend
Be Our Friend
MySpace
FaceBook