So I’ve spent most of my afternoon doing dissertation research and listening to In Rainbows by Radiohead. It’s a lot more mellow and less claustrophobic than previous albums (Hail to the Thief for example was a bit scary). It’s a lot more soulful, colourful, it flows like a Rainbow(!). The percussion is quite special to, reminiscent of ‘Idioteque’ on songs like “15 Step”, “Reckoner” and the end of “VideoTape”. The reworked version of “Nude” is amazing, Thom Yorke’s voice sounds like the grandpa paedophile from Family Guy, which is slightly off putting when you picture it. It is a really haunting song, but ends on a crescendo that is remarkably resolute and upbeat.
It’s a grower, but I think it might take a few more listens. So now I’m going to go do more work! Bah.
The free download is good because it is definitely better than selling albums today and being behind in sales. Now we can have websites debut albums and pay the costs of the recording process and get a million hits in a day. It really could be great. Plus, there is no decrease in quality. The album is great. There’s a great review in http://www.imposemagazine.com on the whole thing. It is good for the record industry and the band and esp. the fans.
It’s cool that fans basically all get the album at the same time. I don’t know if this could be a universal success though, it worked for Radiohead because they’ve had a successful past and a massive fan base. Oasis can do the same, but for smaller bands starting off, I think they’ll still need the backing of a record company at first. Shall just have to see what happens, who makes a similar decision.
Thanks for the link, that’s a good review. This one is good to; http://www.drownedinsound.com/articles/2485286.