The Info:
English alternative rock band Radiohead released its much-anticipated seventh studio album, “In Rainbows,” this month. The album is the first the band has released since the end of its contract with British record label EMI.
Though the album has been available for download from Radiohead’s website since Oct. 10, the actual CD was not released in North America until Jan. 1.
The online download received particular attention from fans and critics because supporters could choose the price they paid to download the album.
Additionally, for the diehard Radiohead fans among us, a “discbox” was released on the same date, complete with the album, a second disc of bonus tracks, two vinyl records, artwork and lyric booklets.
The Good:
After more than two years on hiatus, Radiohead has not let down their fans. “In Rainbows” is a substantial, meaningful album that is in keeping with the rest of the band’s work.
The 10-track album opens with beat-heavy “15 Step,” a catchy, electronic song that immediately reminds listeners of the band’s creativity.
“Bodysnatchers” then picks up with similar momentum, a noisy and fast-paced rock song that is sure to be a favorite among fans.
Another highlight of the album, “All I Need,” combines synthesizers, strings and the eerie vocals of lead singer Thom Yorke to create a Radiohead-style love song.
“In Rainbows” is also home to a few slower tracks, including “Faust Arp” and “Weird Fishes.” With heavy lyrics and smooth guitar, both songs truly showcase the talent of the band.
Above any of these though, two tracks that stood out to me were “Reckoner” and “Jigsaw Falling Into Place.” The guitar part in “Reckoner,” which bears resemblance to the style of Red Hot Chili Peppers, is accompanied by ambient drums and piano.
“Jigsaw Falling Into Place” is one of the few acoustic songs on the album and has a clean, down-to-earth sound.
Overall, it seemed that any of the songs from the album would be worth mentioning. The album is extremely well done and has secured Radiohead’s reputation as one of the most unique and talented bands in alternative music today.
The Bad:
Despite its strengths, Radiohead was definitely not trying to appeal to everyone when they wrote this album.
“In Rainbows” is strange (as Radiohead tends to be), and takes a particular taste in music to enjoy. That said, avid Fergie fans should probably opt out of this purchase.
Additionally, many of the slower songs in the album drag on, so much so that I began to feel like I was waiting for them to end. “In Rainbows” also fails to set any sort of tone.
After a gloomy five-minute ballad, the album will suddenly jump back into one of its more upbeat tracks. Clearly, the coherence of the album was one of its biggest downfalls.
The Rest:
With just over 42 minutes of music total, “In Rainbows” is relatively short for a CD.
On the other hand, what Radiohead can offer is that there are no filler tracks, no songs that seem incomplete or out of place.
The band spent their two years wisely and has produced an album that has earned praise from critics and fans alike.
In keeping with the band itself, “In Rainbows” will prove to be a hit or miss with most listeners. But, with the rare option of selecting your own price for the album, “In Rainbows” is definitely worth the download.