Never ones to let the grass grow under their feet, Radiohead unleashed their latest strategy by allowing buyers to name their own price for their latest album. In these cynical times it’s refreshing that they have apparently become financially better off by trying out this honesty tactic. Since their unremarkable first record though, their albums have never been a risky purchase quality-wise and it’s pleasing that Radiohead have pulled out another fine record and one which reveals a refreshing sense of humanity.
Initially, Radiohead seem to be embarking on awkward territory. Some complicated percussion and bluesy guitar characterise ‘15 Step’ and halfway through it enters a dreamy groove; essentially developing into a second song in the process. Likewise, ‘Bodysnatchers’ is confrontational and stylistically all over the place; its frantic instrumentation reminding me of dEUS. It’s an arresting beginning but, after that, something quite strange happens.
It is here where Radiohead reveal their soulful side. ‘Nude’ will be known to many as a live track. It has a sad vibe to it but think of it as a happier ‘Pyramid Song’. I prefer ‘Weird Fishes/Arpeggi’; despite its odd title, the insistent guitar rhythm and Thom Yorke’s yearning vocal make this track an understated but spine-tingling and highly emotive track. Likewise ‘All I Need’ isn’t musically complicated but it’s another beautiful song where the group prove they are romantic souls after all.
Thereafter Radiohead use strings, more bluesy guitar and what amounts to fairly conventional music, which is good but never outstanding. Neverthless I still enjoyed the album and quite like the fact that Radiohead are maturing and exploring their soulful side in a less experimental manner.
Web Sites:
Radiohead’s Dead Air Space
Radiohead MySpace
Further Listening:
Junior Boys, A Pacific Model
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