Radiohead

Editor's Review:

Coming off the monumental success of the legendary OK Computer, high expectations were levied against the British rock outfit for their follow-up record. Now, with the final release of Kid A, not only has Radiohead managed to present fans and critics with something substantial to chew on, but they've managed to sidestep expectations completely and leave the masses scratching their heads in reverent bewilderment. Kid A is a further departure from the classic tenets of pop-influenced rock, and when you think about it, the next logical step for a band like Radiohead. Coming off the solid and slightly ethereal OK Computer, this offering is really spaced out, employing lots of synth and canned beats to create dreamy soundscapes that accentuate the disturbingly delicate crooning of Thom York. The rock is almost non-existent, save for songs like the intensely anthemic "Optimistic" and "National Anthem," a head-nodding little ditty anchored by a strong, rolling and brooding bass line over which York's slightly off-key gossamer serenades trade the spotlight with liberal echo-y synth passages and calmly chaotic horn blasts.

Mostly, Kid A is sonically rich, reveling in big, wide open spaces, all awash in the stark, hazy aural gauze of lush - though seemingly bleak, if not outright dark at times - instrumentation and a heady unspoken emotional edge that speaks nearly as loudly as the music itself.

- Max Sidman


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Record Label Capitol Records Released October 2000

Tracks 1. Everything In Its Right Place 2. Kid A 3. The National Anthem 4. How To Disappear Completely 5. Treefingers 6. Optimistic 7. In Limbo 8. Idioteque 9. Morning Bell 10. Motion Picture Soundtrack