Radiohead - In Rainbows
Previous to my recent acquisition of “In Rainbows”, I had never owned a Radiohead CD, or for that matter even listened to any of their music. I had been warned that attempting to pass judgment on a band as experimental and indefinable as Radiohead would be difficult, perhaps impossible without the appropriate background. Maybe so. I believe, however, that my ability to assess any piece of music relies only on an open mind and an attentive ear. Armed only with these I delve into the masterpiece that is “In Rainbows”.
“In Rainbows” somehow manages to explore many styles and moods while nevertheless remaining a cohesive whole. From the rocky, and blood-pumping opening provided by “15 Step” and “Bodysnatchers”, the highest charted single from this record, the tone quickly swings towards the quiet and reflective mood which characterizes the meat of this album. Even though the mood shifts, elements of these early tracks can be found throughout the album, with masterful guitar licks and tantalizing drum lines expertly laced in and out of the industrial synthesized sounds that form the backbone of “In Rainbows” sound. Expressive string sections and quiet piano pieces give birth to impassioned cries and raspy feedback. It is a frenzied balance of sounds which escapes categorization.
One of the greatest strengths of “In Rainbows” is its composition. Every song is a fresh and unexpected exploration of the possibilities of the music. Their beauty lies in their subtlety, their intensity in their rawness. Cryptic yet expressive lyrics inspire contemplation. Comprehension of these songs lies not in placing them within the context of other music, but placing oneself within the context of the various modes and moods present on this album.
In the end “In Rainbows” will give to you what you give to it. In a bold challenge to its listeners, Radiohead originally released the CD online where customers were able to name their own price. Some people paid mere pennies, and yet ironically, Radiohead doesn’t give you anything for free on this CD. “In Rainbows” is beautiful, and yet demanding. Those who put in the time will find in this album a gripping exploration of alternative music. As I said before, “In Rainbows” is my first Radiohead CD, but after listening to this album, I’m sure it won’t be my last.
GT Wrobel
