Album Review: Radiohead – In Rainbows

The music industry has been in a transitional state over the last several years as distribution moved into a digital realm. Music giant iTunes has become the most popular choice for those who purchase albums and songs online, but its use of DRM gives many users a headache. What does this have to do with the latest album from Radiohead?

Radiohead decided to abandon their record label and any form of distributor and give out their album themselves. Currently the only way to get In Rainbows is through the In Rainbows website, though they plan on releasing it in CD form (under another label) later (source). The most intriguing part of this whole process is that the band elected to allow listeners to choose their own price for the album. If you do not want to pay, simply put in 0 euros as your price and download the DRM-free album with no strings attached. Of course the band is hoping that people will pay for the music, but they have not released any sales figures yet. There is plenty more to discuss on their pricing scheme, but this is primarily a review for the album itself.

In Rainbows is my first Radiohead album, and after years of ignoring friends who recommended them, I have finally given in to their wishes (how could I resist the price?). I found the album easily accessible and varied, both positive for a new listener. I would recommend everyone who is in my position just listen to the album straight through in one sitting when they first get it. I often use that technique when trying out new artists.

That also gives me a feel for the album as a whole. In Rainbows is cohesive while each track remains unique. Things start with with “15 Step,” a fast song with electronica influences. The first track is a perfect example of the unique sound that Radiohead can offer. “Bodysnatchers” has a more normal alternative sound, but continues the up-tempo speed.

Things slow down for the first time with “Nude.” The bare sound allows lead singer Thom Yorke’s vocals to wander, gaining more and more purpose as the song moves along. It demonstrates how talented a singer he truly is. “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” picks things up a bit before they slightly shift down into one of my favorites, “All I Need.” The track broadcasts a borderline hip-hop feel while York’s haunting vocals echo like distant thoughts. This illustrates the band’s diversity while providing one of the strongest offerings from In Rainbows.

The light “Faust Arp” provides a change of pace with its acoustic melody. This leads into the powerful falsetto journey that is “Reckoner.” The soft vocals run over the addictive ride cymbal melody (maybe I only hear that so prominently because of my percussion background). The next song, “House of Cards,” is slower and more mellow; overall it is among the weaker tracks.

The album closes with the excellent bass-driven “Jigsaw Falling Into Place,” and the piano march known as “Videotape.” I was impressed with the overall quality of the album, and I fell in love with several tracks. For potential fans like myself, I would definitely recommend checking In Rainbows out. I have enjoyed it so much that I am going to check out the band’s previous work in the very near future.

Top 3

• All I Need
• Reckoner
• 15 Step

8/10

Note: Though Radiohead does not provide any album art, there are plenty of alternatives. The one I have pictured in this review can be found here. There is an entire flickr pool that can be viewed here.