So, by now, you’ll no doubt have received that very special email from W.A.S.T.E with your own, very special link, to download one of the most anticipated albums of the year: Radiohead’s In Rainbows.
The question is though, was it worth the wait?
I’ve been through it once now and I’ve been pleasently surprised. The style isn’t too dissimilar from their most recent efforts, but there’s an aggression and energy that has been lacking. The crunching noises behind “Bodysnatchers”, the clipped beats on opener “15 Step” all pound along. Sure, the haunting piano ballad of “Jigsaw” is a touch close to Coldplay territory, but Yorke’s voice, which is crystal clear throughout, drags it out of the dirge.
Look out for a full review on Friday, where a host of TLOBF writers will give their opinions… for now though, what’s your gut instinct? Was it worth how much you paid (or didn’t) for it?
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A few more listens now and I’m not sure about all this love for “Nude”. It’s ok, nicely heartfelt with some lush strings but it’s not all that.
“Bodysnatches” is my favourite so far…
After one listen on the train this morning, im suitably impressed by it.
I haven’t been blown away by a Radiohead album since Kid A, and wasn’t really fussed about this album to be honest. I’m pleased they have continued with using real instruments, lots of Jonny Greenwoods guitar which can only be a good thing. A nice progression from Hail To The Thief.
Superb analysis from the expert at the BBC desk here:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/7037194.stm
As for me, in my opinion two songs are among the best Radiohead have ever done, three-four are pretty good, a couple are ok and one is a stinker. Not a bad effort and I prefer it to HTTT (not that there is particularly much wrong with that either). So despite what the BBC twonk says, I’d rather not go back to the Pablo Honey days.