IN RAINBOWS

A very controversial addition to the prog world, Radiohead are mostly known as a popular British rock band that is very effective at reaching out to teenagers and have nothing to do with art among those who have not actually heard any of their albums. With all the hype around them, it's hard not to believe that, especially as a person who has lost faith in our music industry as I have. This, on the other hand, is a rare gem that has managed to break into the mainstream very well... one that may be skipped over by many hardcore proggers out there. Don't make this mistake.

However, I will warn you: Do NOT expect traditional prog. Open-minded ears are necessary for purchase of this release.

Released in 2007, this album is also quite well known for Radiohead's break from their previous main record label in an attempt to give themselves more freedom in the releasing process. The album was released on their website as a download when it was first finished and the buyer could choose how much they wanted to pay for the album! For early 2008, there were planned sells for a special discbox edition (with a bonus CD 2) and for a vinyl edition. To say the least... even only looking at their downloadable sales, the method proved to be quite effective.

Now onto the music itself: 1. 15 Step- Starting with an interestingly generated drum beat and Yorke's typical voice (however not whining), this song is actually starting out pretty upbeat for Radiohead's standards. It immediately draws you into the song by building on top of this, particularly when a very neat guitar part comes in. This song continues to build perfectly throughout its duration, being very expressive and peaking when the children's choir comes in during that middle segment. Gives me goosebumps every time. Fantastic song, only truly understood by hearing it. 10/10 2. Bodysnatchers- More upbeat than the first song (which was mainly more so upbeat in the beginning part) and effective. Typical Radiohead here, great and emotional vocals by Yorke, and good structure. 8/10 3. Nude- Only word to describe this song. Beautiful. You must hear it. Yorke's vocals are at its best here, the atmosphere is PERFECT, and I actually have trouble describing this song because it's so good. I love it so much, especially when the ghostly vocals break out about 3 minutes in. Masterpiece song. 10+/10 4. Weird Fishes/Arpeggi- Arguably the most progressive track on this album, it is the longest in length and also features some very interesting guitar and structure for a seemingly mainstream band. The part when the guitar breaks, the atmosphere climaxes, and Yorke's vocals are accompanied by very interesting keyboard experimentation... easily the best part. Very good. The drums are also of notice here for helping to drive the song along effectively. 9/10 5. All I Need- Emotional song similar to Nude, except with its own feel and style. More of a romantic/ballad type song, except with a typical depressive Yorke spin on it. It works pretty well, especially the drawn out chorus that showcases Yorke's more famous singing style. 9/10 6. Faust Arp- Minimalistic, avant-ish guitar/vocal interlude. Pretty good, but probably the weakest song on the album. 8/10 7. Reckoner- Here we are. Even with the competition of Nude on this album, I still firmly believe that this is Radiohead's best track ever. It is perfect, with Yorke's vocals again up to top notch, the drummer turning out a very groove-laden repetitive drum pattern that I could NEVER get sick of... add in an absolutely flawless structure, guitar skills, orchestral parts, and atmosphere... This song is what Radiohead is all about. 10+/10 8. House of Cards- Following Reckoner, this song is the most effective that it could be. It is continuing the overall atmosphere of this album quite well, a really personal, moody song, well-structured and full of addictive Radiohead musical style. 10/10 9. Jigsaw Falling into Place- Another good song here, continuing on a slightly more upbeat note. Good guitars, drums, and structure as with the rest of the songs. Not perfect, but still very enjoyable. 9/10 10. Videotape- Extremely minimalistic and emotional piano ballad, the chords and minimalism are efficient and work as a good closer. 9/10

Alright. So, down to the basics here. What does all of this mean?

At least hear this album if you haven't. It definitely won't be to everyone's taste, but it is a masterpiece of music that people should at least give a chance (or a few) if they're looking for something truly expressive that has managed to create a unique world for discovery.

Accessible minimalistic/avant modern prog with some mainstream qualities. This is the best album you could pick.

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