CD REVIEW: ‘In Rainbows’ delivers simplicity, style and sensuality

Radiohead’s seventh studio album, “In Rainbows,”
is finally available in stores, and like a fine red
wine, the band only seems to be getting better
with age.

Harder and reminiscent of their younger days
are songs like “Bodysnatchers” and “Jigsaw Falling
Into Place” (think: The Bends).

The constantly driving sound of Phil Selway’s
drum beats lends itself to minimalism, electronica
and modern rock and perfectly complements the
soothing synth and guitar sounds throughout.

Particularly indicative of the direction Radiohead
is going is the song “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi.” With
chorus, strings and reverb layered on top of one
another, the song is an epic story in itself, complete
with a less-than-positive message of
hitting the bottom and escaping.

The album opens with an oddmetered
song in five-four called “15
Step.” Gorgeous effects include the
dry tightness of the snare, sensual
phasers, key modulation, cheering
children and one bad bass line.

“Reckoner” is a song dedicated
to all human beings and features
startlingly beautiful vocal and orchestral
harmonies. Simplicity wins
out and teaches a valuable lesson to
the timbre-happy producers of the
music industry.

The overall feel of the album is
very dark and pensive, typical of the
band and what the fans have come to
love and respect. The sophistication
of the group emerges throughout
the music with the use of strings,
electronic elements, odd meters and
the always inspiringly melancholy
sound of Thom Yorke’s voice.

“In Rainbows” is another album
that will keep Radiohead elevated to
their superstar status, which is exactly
what the fans want.

Grade: A+

Download (don’t steal): “Bodysnatchers”
by Radiohead