RADIOHEAD –The King of Limbs, album review.
Who would have noticed, that it’s been 18 years since Radiohead released their first debut, Pablo Honey. It's even harder to believe that after such a long and successful career (artistically and commercially), Radiohead is still trying to make a breakthrough in the music industry of 2011. Radiohead has created an album possibly more experimental and adventurous than anything they have done before.
The King of Limbs, their latest album shows almost no traces of the grunge sound and alternative rock that Radiohead became known for. This album sounds so experimental with electronic element that can easily confuse their very first fan base. This can be a difficult album to get into, but if you keep an open mind and willing to give it a try, the listening experience can be very rewarding. In fact, The King of Limbs might be their finest album after OK Computer.
The King of Limbs may not be the most original album that ever been created. Yet, it is a very unique album. It can not be said as your typical “rock” act anymore. The album filled with haunting electronic beats, the consistency of Thom Yorke’s melancholic vocals, and almost psychedelic atmospheres. It will take a while before you could really appreciate this unconventional and experimental work of art.
The single “Lotus Flower” is a very good representation of The King of Limbs, as it really captured the emotion of the whole album. The first track “Bloom” really set the tone for the rest of the album. It has intricate polyrhythm and unusual signature. We can hear the monotonous piano paired with great vocals that create hypnotic, yet it is beautiful. While “Morning Mr. Magpie” is one of the most accessible tune and simplicity is genius! And in “Little by Little” it is a nostalgic of the old Radiohead that we love so much. The simple song structure fits Thom Yorke’s melancholy voice.
Overall, the technical aspects of The King of Limbs are quite strong. The musicianship is excellent as always, especially Thom Yorke's fantastic vocal. The aim is not on showmanship, but it’s actually relies on how to create a decent music. The production is top-notch, and sonically good. This experimental masterwork is very refreshing and there is even more reason to savor it.
No comments:
Post a Comment