Today, Radiohead released a new album and the sounds of Thom Yorke’s voice could be heard echoing throughout our office. In Rainbows made a splash because the band self-released the new songs from their website, letting fans (and the anyone else) name their own price. Reaction at The Vanguard was mixed, but here is what various members of our staff had to say on the subject.
Radiohead – Reviewing In Rainbows
Today, Radiohead released a new album and the sounds of Thom Yorke’s voice could be heard echoing throughout our office. In Rainbows made a splash because the band self-released the new songs from their website, letting fans (and the anyone else) name their own price. Reaction at The Vanguard was mixed, but here is what various members of our staff had to say on the subject.
Ed Johnson, managing editor
Initial thoughts: In Rainbows is a very solid effort, and almost every song is a winner. BUT, it lacks the cohesive quality that makes earlier work, like Kid A, transcendent. Favorite track: “Bodysnatchers”How much did you pay? Nothing.How much would you pay after hearing it? If it’s free, it’s free.
David Holley, editor-in-chief
Initial thoughts: I can’t argue with Radiohead’s progression toward electronic instrumentation. In Rainbows may seem less cohesive, but it’s still a story. And, like almost all Radiohead, it’s a beautiful story of melancholy and love.Favorite track: “Jigsaw Falling Into Place”How much did you pay? Nothing…yet.How much would you pay after hearing it? A billion-kajillion-zillion dollars.
Stover E. Harger III, online editor/writer
Initial thoughts: Boring and uneven. Radiohead, even at their moodiest, usually give their listeners something, anything, to grasp onto. Whether it’s the glorious pop hooks of The Bends or the ambient urgency of Kid A, Radiohead has always been one of the most fascinating modern bands, until now.Favorite track: “Jigsaw Falling Into Place”How much did you pay? NadaHow much would you pay after hearing it? Music costs money?
Owen Smith, copy editor/writer
Initial thoughts: Radiohead’s last studio release, Hail to the Thief, was a criminally boring album. In Rainbows is a pleasant and surprising return to form for the venerable band. It’s just good, thoughtful and thankfully un-ironic rock music. Favorite track: “Bodysnatchers” How much did you pay? Nothing.How much would you pay after hearing it? I’m cheap. What do you think?
Steve Haske, news editor
Initial Thoughts: In Rainbows is more like a story (or less like a poem) than the band’s last couple of albums, for better or worse. Tracks range from brooding to whimsical, giving its overall sound an occasionally uneven feel. However, this newest evolution of Radiohead is good, if a bit unexpected.Favorite Track: “Reckoner”How much did you pay? Nothing. Thom and company knew full well that no one was going to pay for this album.How much would you pay after hearing it? If they’re offering the album for nothing I’m not going to say no, but I’ll still support the band…under different circumstances.
