Premature Evaluation: Radiohead - In Rainbows
OK! You guys didn't sleep? Neither did we. Just got the magic link in an email from W.A.S.T.E. Zip is downloading. We'll post our thoughts here throughout the day, as well as the best of your comments. And let's make it fun: sign-off your post with how much you paid -- and how much you think it was worth. Early buzz says In Rainbows is ... well, actually you're gonna help dictate that early buzz right now.
Ready?
Let's do this.
Posted at 2:52 AM in Premature Evaluation
Tags: Radiohead
First! Mega thread!
Holy shit, 15 step sounds awesome. They better not screw up "Big Ideas (Don't Get Any)" (yeah, yeah, Nude, whatever)
Score = 0
I payed zero nothing nada for the album. Sounds like Radiohead. But 160 kbps, that's not good enough. They are actually forcing us to buy the cd, when it comes out.
Score = 0
my ears are very very pleased.
Score = 0
8 us dollars.
its stunning. i am overwhelmed. nude is better than i ever thought it would be. the constant strings throughout the album are incredible. reckoner is incredible. best thing since ok computer?
Score = 0
I proudly went $5.00, which in American was closer to $10. Those of you who paid nothing-you are assholes and are killing the whole experiment. You are supposed to really love music right? Anyway, I couldn't be happier, I'm four songs deep and feel a part of something. This is pretty great.
Score = 0
Its cool so far, breaking what every one thought they would do yet again, very simplistic musically... i have always wanted another fake plastic trees and have always known i wont get it... i paid two pounds fifty for it. I love 'all i need' the most so far on first listen.
Score = 0
so far so good, but how people can be comparing this to anything else radiohead has done after one listen (or fuckin' 1/2 a listen at this point) is beyond me.
that being said... bodysnatchers slays me.
Score = 0
Incredible. Radiohead is taking us to our salvation.
Score = 0
This album resparks my interest in Radiohead. I haven't been a fan since Ok Computer, but now I'm tempted to get all of the post OK's just to see if I'd like em. I downloaded it from OINK. My email never came!
Score = 0
it doesn't waste any time, and it seems like they're genuinely not trying to prove anything with this album. i've only listened to the whole thing once, but it's pretty tight. i paid about $5, and british pounds are highly confusing, though i'll pay whatever some label coerces me into paying when it's released physically. word.
Score = 0
What exactly is everyone freaking out about? Is this a new Rainbow album... so the first since 1983? GOD I hope so, I'm a fan of pretty much anything Ronnie James Dio puts his name on.
Score = 0
discbox, so the download was free.
I think it's a pretty fantastic album. Nude has long been a radiohead classic and this version blows the earlier ones away. Possibly in my top 5-10 radiohead songs from the entire catalogue.
It also blows my mind that they could take two of their worst songs ever (Reckoner and Open Pick) and make them so great in the studio.
Videotape should've had the buildup...the first live version is unbelievable.
Score = 0
Incredible, but was there any doubt?
I've been dying to hear the studio version of 15 step since last June and it was worth the wait, but the real winner so far is 'All I Need'.
Score = 0
Just finished my second time through. This is definitely their most "rocking" release since '97 (as rocking as Radiohead can be). "15 Step" is a killer opening and I love, love, love "Weird Fishes/Arpeggi." "Videotape" is one of the most beautifully haunting tracks they've ever written. I paid 6 U.S. dollars but "In Rainbows" is worth much, much more. I'll be buying the CD when it's released early next year.
Score = 0
I dig. I paid 3 pounds. Not done listening. Doubt I'll be done listening any time soon also.
Score = 0
Listened to it twice through already... it's my birthday today, and I was looking forward to this more than anything.
Nude is haunting... it's beautiful, and reckoner is probably tied for my favorite track on the album.
I agree totally, the strings really unify the album, I can't complain about a single track, quite possibly my favorite radiohead album to date.
THIS is what happens when an album has 100% creative control over the process from start to finish, and doesn't have to worry about making a single ready track. Amazing. Bet you it'll be all over satellite radio in the coming days.
Score = 0
"I payed zero nothing nada for the album. Sounds like Radiohead. But 160 kbps, that's not good enough. They are actually forcing us to buy the cd, when it comes out."
Do not buy the record then. Was that not the point? Don't go around complaining like they did you a disservice by making an album available. Your choice to become involved wasn't it? As if you wouldn't have downloaded the leak. Would you complain if you got the album for free and actually listened to the music instead of focusing on 160kbps? Maybe you'd actually remember what music appreciation was and be forced to buy the album based on that notion instead.
Moving on to more constructive conversation...
This album is unreal. No one writes songs like this group of five do. To be honest at first I was skeptical at how seemingly disconnected In Rainbows felt as a whole, but upon further listens, I am now starting to realize this is the sound of a band truly letting go of all the hype and mystique plaguing them for years. No concepts or hype, they are making an uncompromisingly unique album full of songs that only Radiohead could create.
My favorite band for ten years and counting...
Score = 0
2.45 pounds ($5) ; I plan on buying the disc box at a later date.
Is anyone else excited that we no longer need to listen to awful live recordings of these tracks?
Score = 0
Definitely more OK Computer than Kid A, the thing is still painfully gorgeous. They're exploring new territory as always, but the great thing about Radiohead is how well they incorporate their vast and often intentionally esoteric and obscure influences into what they already do. No matter how hard they try not to, they always sound like Radiohead. And that sound is pretty god damn beautiful.
I'm sure there are poignant, contemporary themes and deep, insightful lyrics in this record, but like with OK Computer, it's first and foremost about the melodies. These songs just SOUND wonderful, they connect with the listener by virtue of their composition and delivery. What Thom Yorke is actually singing about, while worth looking at closely in its own right, is not integral to enjoying the songs.
This is the band in top form, as usual. Our expectations of them are obscenely high and yet they manage to surpass them at every turn, to our surprise and delight. They're truly the best band since The Beatles (not to draw comparisons).
I paid 1 pound (so, $2.03) for the download, but I'm getting the discbox. It's fucking Radiohead, man: you've got to shell out.
Score = 1
BEST EVER!
Score = 0
it explodes with brilliance in parts and on further listens it's all unified as one big document of a band making music in a room. it's definitely more immediate in it's feel yet has evidence of many many layers beneath which are screaming out as i keep listening. it's lush and alive
its like they recorded it all in one take but it still has the details and depth that an album would have when it's been recorded over the past four years.
Score = 0
thom wasn't kidding when he said it was almost embarassingly minimal. "all i need" is awesome the rest...well i'll give it some time
Score = 0
oh yeah and i paid for the discbox two seconds after i saw it was announced 10 days ago
Score = 0
I went with the discbox. Just had to, since it's Radiohead and all. And on first listen, this shit is the fire. Just saw Paste has a poll up as well:
http://www.pastemagazine.com/action/article/5447/news/music/poll_radioheads_in_rainbows_what_did_you_pay
Fun stuff...
Score = 0
anyone in love with the drums on these tracks? god dam! jigsaw!
Score = 0
I paid £0.95, which, given the current strength of the US dollar, is about twenty bucks.
but I'm very very happy about this album right now
Score = 0
You got your guys' email already?!
Mine hasnt come yet!
Panic!
Score = 0
Hate to bring up the negatives, as I am liking what I'm hearing, but Videotape was my most anticipated track and they ruined it with this bullshit falling percussion that gets in the way of the piano. Looks like I'll have to see them live to hear the proper non-fucked with version.
Score = 0
I keep coming back to 15 Step, I wasn't too big on the live version from Chicago but the studio recording is incredible.
I gave ~$17, and I'm impressed.
I figured it was the least I could do to repay Radiohead for the years of joy (and record label releases they didn't get paid enough for) they've brought me.
Score = 0
Whoever said this record was rockin' was high. This is the mellowest Radiohead record yet. The last 2 songs are the only ones that could be considered rockin', which leads me to believe this is a true double album and the uptempo stuff is on the second disc. Still annoys me that they wouldn't let the download only people in on that.
That said, it is a WONDERFUL recording. The sounds are familiar, but again they are breaking ground. A lot of acoustic guitars in there and some great drum sounds. My favorite track is the last one, so I guess all of the groundwork they laid with Kid A and Amnesiac must have done the trick. I look forward to listening to the second disc and going to see the supporting tour.
P.S. Thom once said he wanted to make a Radiohead record that he could imagine having sex to... this must have been what he meant.
Score = 0
best. album. ever
Score = 0
Ten dollars. It's beautiful.
Score = 0
I paid nothing (only 'cause I have no credit card) but I'm definitely picking up the CD when it's out.
Absolutely awesome album. The only downer for me was the echoey vocals on House of Cards. Would have been better without that effect.
Score = 0
Only three songs in, but it sounds to me like they've married the scratchy experimentalism of Kid A with their always present/latent rock elements - which is basically what Hail to the Thief was - but as well as this newfound cleaniness/clarity - everything announces itself instantly, like someone said "it doesn't waste any time". I love also how listening to them now you're constantly reminded of other parts of their discography and sound, they're really dynamic like that.
But all this is really just an initial reaction.
Score = 0
I'd like this album better if it had less guitar and a less harsh-sounding hihat. But they really can't get out of it: Radiohead sounds really 90's and I think they will forever probably. Kid A and Amnesiac don't really have that 90's sound. They live in the world of the new millenium for me. But this album takes me back to the 90s.
Score = 0
Sounds like Radiohead just being a band that plays songs for the first time in a while. No overriding theme (OK Computer, Hail) just solid songs. It is the classic rock Radiohead. ? I need to sleep badly.
Paid $2. Worth $20. Will most likely buy the vinyl when avaliable.
Score = 0
Isn't it stunning how this band just never stops growing?
Score = 0
DRUMSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!
Score = 0
$0. Not because of audio quality or anything like that. I just refuse to pay any money for a digital version when I will for sure be buying the physical CD when its finally released. So those of you having kittens because I didn't initially pay for the music, I'll probably be shelling out $15 for the CD, while I imagine many of you will just stick to the download and your $5 investment or whatever.
I would MUCH rather see CDs go to a cheap flat rate (like $8) than any other music pricing "experiment." Digital is only my secondary interest, as I WANT the physical media. I will never pay for digital alone.
Score = 0
the songs on the record are incredible.
however the sound quality does kill me.
i'm a huge fan of the detail obsessed kid a/amnesiac radiohead.
arpeggi would have sounded amazing on those sessions (the clicks at the beginning followed by really naked drumset)
also the beginning of nude is incredible... but then it just fades out.... as if they didn't know where to go with it.
still fucking amazing... but the minimal approach will take some getting used to.
2nd listen already sounds better than the 1st.
so that's a good sign
Score = 0
Not crazy about what they did to Videotape. That said, how awesome is it to wait up for an album? Haven't done it for an album since college since everything leaked.
Score = 0
tears are welling up in the back of my eyes as i listen through this album and i can't help it or fight it. its just too perfect on so many levels. do you think they KNOW what they do to us as they put these songs together?
one word: ARPEGGI.
and 15 step is funky as hell.
and bodysnatchers couldnt be better.
i have a giant editorial in my college paper tomorrow on the release of "in rainbows" and i fully intend to share the link here...
Score = 0
OUTSTANDING.
I really like that percussion on "Videotape", makes the piano seem more urgent. Does that make sense? Shit, I need to sleep.
Score = 0
Sloan: agreed! I've been refreshing my inbox all day... it's so exciting!
Score = 0
In Rainbows is so two hours ago. I've already moved on to Hole's Live Through This. Paid $9. Worth $10.
Score = 0
on first listen, very displeased with what they did with Videotape. All the emotion seems to have evaporated from it.
But... Arpeggi. Wow. Also loving what they did with reckoner.
Score = 0
I bought the discbox.
Wow. The most melancholy album they've done - beautiful. The rock always gives way to the mid-tempo. They've definatly boiled this album down like a nice reduction sauce. Very mature and lush.
Can't wait to hear this album on vinyl.....
I have a feeling the whiners about the 160kbps quality didn't pay more then $3.
Score = 0
I paid 6 pounds which was like, 9-10 Canadian. Even though I'm disappointed in 160kbs, and you can really hear it at times on this album, I'll pick up the box set down the road, so I'll have my pristine lp/cd's then, and all will be wonderful.
This album is pretty incredible. I'm just wrapping up Videotape now, (No band on earth comes close to Radiohead's ability to close out albums) and I feel this will rank up with one of my favorites of theirs. It's a much better album than Hail, and more fluid than Amnesiac and Kid A. Love it to pieces.
And the way in which it came out... just amazing. What a brilliant group of musicians.
Score = 0
didn't drop a dime. my bank account doesn't have anything in it till friday! i plan to re purchase with another email address then.
nude is so good. also liking faust arp
Score = 0
OMG reckoner just started on.
omggg reckoner.....jesus. i need some good headphones dammmmmit
Score = 0
Just gorgeous. They're best since Kid A, without a doubt. That's about the most restrained way I can talk about this album. Read my total first impressions here:
http://speedinguptostop.blogspot.com/2007/10/day-0-followed-yellow-brick-road-now.html
Score = 0
The process, the excitement, the event nature of the thing -- this is one of the best listening experiences I've ever had. Oh and every. single. song. has blown me away. The very definition of at once meeting and defying expectations. That I will have this album to enjoy as the season changes and the nights get colder makes me want to hug a stranger.
8 pounds, but I'll be paying for the discbox in due time.
Score = 0
I love the new album. Definitely on the O.K. Computer and Kid A level. When I listened to Videotape for the first time, I wanted to cry. It's just so beautiful. I paid for the complete set and cannot wait to hear it on vinyl.
Score = 0
discbox
first impressions:
better than pablo honey, amnesiac, and hail to the thief
probably better than the bends
not as good as kid a or ok computer
a very well constructed album.
a self-contained vision in the radiohead canon.
(it doesn't retread. anyone.)
more emotionally available that any of their albums since the bends
string section definitely more of a foreground element
while balancing the more live, fast and loose quality from the last album
largely successful, occasionally overpowering
teeters on redundancy/overproduction toward the end?
electronic elements pushed to the back frequently
discreet and slightly more indistinct
benefits the fresh, tight and snappy drumming
first 4 are a knockout
all i need meanders before a climax that puts all my doubts in question
faust arp. big surprise. john lennon and elliott smith just shared a glance in heaven.
reckoner. another big surprise. i honestly didn't recognize it. less venomous, more evocative. cloudy. whatever the fuck that means.
house of cards in not a terrible song. at. all. this just hasn't been on my top shelf ever. it's not personal.
jigsaw is a great final snarl. rises to some of the same heights wolf at the door was reaching for.
videotape...a probable disappointment. which makes it a big one, honestly. i guess. doesn't kill the album. almost kills the song. it'll be just fine for anyone that hasn't heard the older versions, i guess. three words:
ending peters out.
as a whole though: magnificent. a brand new suit. a great fall soundtrack. songs you'll love and listen to and make new favorites with. just a bit too much letting go and holding back in some places.
worth:
every. fucking. penny.
Score = 0
At a little over halfway through, I'm quite impressed. I'll have to give it a couple of more listens before I pronounce it their best album since OK Computer.
Score = 0
shit you guys are efficient
Score = 0
so glad thom let ed do the howls on "arpeggi". spine-tingling.
Score = 0
paid zilch. will be listening over and over. will give them all my money for the discbox and proceed to sleep with it under my pillow.
Score = 0
paid nothing for it but ordering the discbox when i get paid. of course it's fucking good. it's radiohead. yeah it's 160kbps but radiohead at 160kbps is still radiohead. and radiohead are always fucking good.
Score = 0
I bought the Discbox, and this was awesome. I'm so glad that I purchased the box up front, because it will be well worth it to have a physical copy. Another great album.
Score = 0
I don't understand how people say there is no theme to this album - pretty much every song is about being in a relationship. Where I end and you begin, if you will....
oh and i got the discbox
Score = 0
oh,
and does anyone think "Videotape" sounds a little bit like Blur's "Battery in Your Leg"?
Please don't kill me for throwing that out there!
Score = 0
This is so fucking good. The mixing on the drums are incredible on this record...!!! OMG!
Score = 0
I agree with the statement it's more okc than kid a, but i feel it shares alot in common with kid a too. It flows exceptionally well, similar to kid a I feel. And also i feel like the extra disc in the disc box is gonna be the amnesiac equivalent. Im guessing they had all these songs and chose 10 that fit very well, and then still wanted to get the others out there. Maybe like amnesiac the hilights of the bonus disc will be as good as anything on in rainbows, just overall it wont be as cohesive. But so far after 3 listens its at worst on par with hail to the thief. I'd rate it an 8.5/10 with chance to be 9.5+
Score = 0
ROCK 'N FUCKIN ROLL!!
Epic, outstanding, brilliant, polished, superb, sublime, percussive, inspiring, dreamy, visceral, the bee's knees, the dog's bollocks, the ostrich's orbs, the gnu's nads!
Who's bigger than the Beatles?
Lennon has his feet up, a cheroot in one hand and a beer in the other, and he is smilin'!
Top. Class.
Score = 0
"But this album takes me back to the 90s."
Don't really see that connection, to be honest. The pronounced hi-hats don't sound old, just different. Flat, electronic ones wouldn't have worked as well with this return to organic warmness that is this album.
I'm glad I stayed virgin of all these songs beforehand, I will not be disappointed by live versions being more awesome ever again. (that means you "True Love Waits")
Beauful. Warm. Surprising. I did not expect these sounds or colors to the songs.
They seem happy, no?
Score = 0
I paid 1 of your finest sterling.
Half way through first listen. Very moody, very good. Well worth the wait. Looking forward for the DiscBox, might have to buy a record player just just to play the vinyl.
Why does everyone love to say its there best or worst or not as good as..... wouf wouf wouf. Can't you just experience it as piece of art. Above mere comparison, or Who's better Who's best mentalities
Score = 0
I know how significant "OK Computer" has been and nothing will likely top that; however, this is probably the best Radiohead album I've heard. This is after being a fan for fourteen years. The changes on these songs are mind-blowing. I don't think an album like this would get the recognition I anticipate it receiving had they released it the old fashioned way. Truly genius album, statement and marketing approach.
And if Stereogum doesn't put this up in the updated post, then... well, I now own "In Rainbows", nothing else matters.
jar
paid: $20
worth: priceless
Score = 0
a fucking great cd. and a fucking great way to "sell" it.
i hope all artists start doing this. it'd be one way to get me to pay for music if i know it all goes to the artist and if it's a fair price
Score = 0
FUCKIN INCREDIBLE ALBUM. Album of the year bar none. I'll go ahead and jump the gun and say best since OK. Idioteque's great, but it's no All I Need. It's the first time I've really paid attention to the drums on a Radiohead album. I'm going to listen to it all night. I eagerly await PFork's 8.8 out of 10.
Score = 0
I was terrified of this album, figuring they couldn't possibly nail those live tracks as well as they did, well, live. I was a fucking idiot.
I did a live review at www.headexploder.com. If you're interested.
Score = 0
at first I thought videotape was a disappointment compared to the live versions I've heard but I've dropped that stance. The live version had that cool little guitar part towards the end, this one kinda just seems to fade away which is more fitting to end the album.
Score = 0
Ordered the discbox.
Not thrilled about the bit rate, but with the number of people opting to pay nothing and the fact it will be freely available everywhere on the net (if it isn't already) I am not surprised they kept it at 160. I can wait until December!
As for the album, it's beautiful. I'm very happy. It's so good to have them back.
Glad I stayed up late for this (it's 2am in Seattle). I wish there were more shared music experiences like this!
Score = 0
Paid nothing for the download... but I'm ordering the discbox as soon as I'm done writing this.
I'm somewhere over the rainbow right now. Definitely their best album since Kid A. I cried listening to "Nude" for the first time; it's achingly beautiful (as is most everything else on here).
Score = 0
9 Euros / 12 dollars.
amazing album !!!
Score = 0
Just finished an incredible listening experience in my car stereo.
Standouts are very blurry. I hope I won't forget what the best moments were.
My cheeks hurt from smiling so much. It was an extremely warm album. Jazzy. French. GUITAR...BASS!!! It was almost like Thom was indulging every guilty pleasure I've ever had for a band like Radiohead.
Lyrics usually don't make an impression on me until the fifth listen or so, but "All I Need"...."I'm in the middle of your photographs.".....AAaaaahhhh....melted my heart the instant I heard it.
There was soul, there was groove, there was crunch and punk and dirt, but not too much schizophrenia. No one-two freakout punches....which is unexpected......and utterly Radiohead.
From the moment I saw the artwork...I knew I could not expect a thing. Just accept.
It seems, with this album, they took the longest, most arduous path to creating some of their most embracing and inviting music. Not to demean it or the quality in any manner, because I hear the toil in every note and arrangement, but it is very warm music. A Radiohead tea-party.
This is pop-music at it's supreme manifestation.
Love.
Score = 0
I wonder what Jonny did on this album besides arranging? I can't really hear any of his guitar or odnes martenot on any tracks.
But really, who cares I guess. What a hauntingly beautiful album.
Score = 0
Paid $9 NZ
Downloading. I have dialup. Am actually getting it through demonoid as a torrent is more secure to download in my situation. Ironic?
Score = 0
I am hovering! This album is INCREDIBLE. Yorke FTW!
Score = 0
im surprised everyone likes it so much - must just be the hardcores that stayed up late. it generally sounds pretty, but thom, as a songwriter, is pretty irrelevant now. I suspect most people like this because its a radiohead album, and not because its a good album. none of these songs grabs me emotionally except nude, which is a song ive known and loved for so long now that, while having a new recording is nice, its almost like hearing a remix of an old favorite song. i read someone said its a relationship album, which may be the best way to describe this. but thom's not the guy for relationship music - his persona, brain, and voice are way too abstract and left of center to be able to make songs titled 'all i need'. 'nude' for example is quite an anti-love song - its dark and lonely which makes it good radiohead material.
Score = 0
3 pounds. Buying the super edition that comes out next year, not the discbox.
It's not OKC or KA as some have said, but it's a fascinating little record. Videotape is growing, but is there any chance we get a release of that god-like version they were doing live?
Bring on disc 2!
Score = 0
Paid 15 pounds, or about 30 dollars... really blown away on third listen. I think so far it's their best next to OkC or KidA.
Score = 0
I just wrote my thoughts down here: http://threepints.blogspot.com/2007/10/radiohead-in-rainbows-first-impressions.html
Would be far too large a post to copy and paste.
Keep posting your thoughts! It's very cool to see this unfold as we all listen, at the same time, for the very first time.
Score = 0
My cousin got me the discbox as a late birthday present so I got the download for free. The album's quite amazing, judging from the 15 Step and Bodysnatchers.
Score = 0
holy shit this is good.
and of course i went with the discbox
Score = 0
5 euros. i'm listening to the album now. it sounds good.
Score = 0
I paid $7.77 pounds and about $20 Australian dollars in honour of LP7.
Fuck, this is a great album. Especially reckoner.
Score = 0
Cover art! (sorry for the double post and link spam)
http://threepints.blogspot.com/2007/10/radiohead-in-rainbows-cover-art.html
Score = 0
No Spooks? That makes me a sad panda.
I'll be listening to this soon, burning it was I speak!
Score = 0
Listened to it once. On second listen. First thoughts: the drums are crazy, from the first seconds of 15 steps it's like a junglerythm, a little bit of electronic drum box stuff, a little bit of human stuff, the guitars are very layered, there are some strings, you can understand yorkes lyrics a bit better then on recent albums. The album feels very cohesive, something that hail to the thief didn't. Theres a lot of stuff going on and yet it feels sparse and minimalistic the drum beats are complicated yet it feels instinctual since sometimes theres barely anything else, it's like the beating of a heart.
Early favorates: 15 step, nude, weird fishes/arpeggi, house of cards...if you compare this to pablo honey it's like a totally different band...and thats whats cool, about radiohaed.
Score = 0
just about to go for a walk with it - the sky is foggy and just about perfect. beautiful
paid 0.00 (insert broke student excuse here)
Score = 0
Hi!
The album is spectacular!!!
Melancolic, radiohead unique style!
Reckoner, nude, bodysnatchers, house of cards my favorites.
Paid £1 for the mp3 and I'm going to buy the discbox!
Score = 0
Wow. Not a single average track throughout...
Reckoner and Jigsaw were two really big surprises.
The percussion throughout is amazing (the drums on 15 step totally took me by surprise), as is the bass and of course Jonny's amazing strings. I loved the new style videotape; both preferable to retreading familiar Pyramid Song ground and engenius and moody in it's own right.
Arpeggi wasn't how I was hoping and on first listen left me a little disappointed, however after subsequent listens I'm obsessed with it.
Faust Arp was another pleasant surprise, eat that Elliot Smith. :)
Definitely best album of the year.
Bought the discbox
Score = 0
Wow. Not a single average track throughout...
Reckoner and Jigsaw were two really big surprises.
The percussion throughout is amazing (the drums on 15 step totally took me by surprise), as is the bass and of course Jonny's amazing strings. I loved the new style videotape; both preferable to retreading familiar Pyramid Song ground and engenius and moody in it's own right.
Arpeggi wasn't how I was hoping and on first listen left me a little disappointed, however after subsequent listens I'm obsessed with it.
Faust Arp was another pleasant surprise, eat that Elliot Smith. :)
Definitely best album of the year.
Ps: Bought the discbox
Score = 0
Best album of the last 2,000 years.
It's a bit strange to have known the lyrics word-for-word to half of these songs for the last year, but the transition from live to recorded is incredible.
Score = 0
really? no one is going to say it?
this album isn't that great. some of the songs are pretty great, but the fact that they RUINED "videotape" sours the entire listening experience for me.
so, for those counting, they recorded "motion picture soundtrack" and "videotape" both completely wrong compared to live versions, and both were the final track. i'm hoping they don't mess up "4 minute warning," since that's the closing track of the 2nd disc of in rainbows.
also, this came out a lot more mellow than i thought the CD would be. "reckoner" used to be a giant rock song, and while the revision is still good, it doesn't rock like i expected. "jigsaws" and "all i need" are probably my favs on the disc.
i'm now hoping that the second disc will be a bit more aggressive....bangers n mash, etc. but all in all, this first CD has too many slow songs and sounds more like demos than final versions.
and man, i hate "house of cards."
Score = 0
Nude makes me shiver.
What an unexpected and delightful event they sprung on us, here.
I paid $8 US.
I will buy this on vinyl.
I will listen to this at least five times all the way through today.
Score = 0
5 poounds (cos I know I'll be buying the discbox, too!) But my download shat itself and now I have to wait for them to send me a new link. Very frustrating! Tempted to try a torrent it in the meanwhile. I paid for the thing and now have to wait ... Argh, dang!
Score = 0
Seriously, a massive virtual head-thwok to everyone bitching about 160kbps vs 192/320/x-to-the-n kbps - you knew that was what you were getting, if that wasn't good enough for you then you shouldn't have downloaded... or be upfront about the fact that you're a music thief - heck, i've got plenty of illegit music, but I'm not proud of it, and I certainly wouldn't come around bitching about how the artists were trying to screw me out of my constitutional right to 320kbps FLAC files! Get a frakkin' life!
The album? Well, I had some pretty high expectations, and it's exceeded those.
My price: 7.32 (pounds)
Worth: every penny, and then some... and I'll probably pay that "then some" when the CD comes out, though I might wait for it to get to the bargain bins!
Score = 0
Very bland album. This is just a rehash of the last two Radiohead albums. There's no real distinct music here, just a kind of wallpaper. There's no great songs, no great lyrics, just muzak. They have been heading down this slope since Amnesiac.
Nothing left in the tank.
Score = 0
Radiohead have done it again. I have listened to the album three times already.
Score = 0
5 pounds / 8 euros.
So far, loving it. All I need truly made me cry. The first half is awesome.
Score = 0
Great album, they did really well. What a great listening experience.
But yes they screwed up Videotape, they always screw up one song, it's like a tradition: I Might Be Wrong on Amnesiac for example... Grrr. Why?
But Faust Arp and Reckoner are amazing surprises so it balances really. Plus all the classic songs.
(It's funny how the non-Radiohead fans like "All I need"??)
Score = 0
Oh yes Bodysnatcher kills. Perfect.
(got the discbox... you knew we would!)
Score = 0
didn't pay. downloaded the torrent.
trying to pay $10 right now, but the site is getting hammered. will try again later today.
the music...
wow.
wow.
wow.
Score = 0
Fantastic. A classic. Incredibly pleased.
Score = 0
I gave them $15,000.00 US, because the poor guys are without a label and they obviously need the cash.
Score = 0
Incredible.
Somehow they've managed to exceed my expecations. Perhaps the hardest task is picking a stand out track, as to my ears there is about 5 or 6 outstanding songs.
It never fails to amaze me how Radiohead consistanty kick all other bands to the curb. I think we can rest assurred this will be taking number one spot in all of the end of year album poles...
Best album since Kid A.
Bought the discbox. Can't wait...
Score = 0
ordered the discbox but my dload link did not work!!! did anyone post the mp3s online? HELP!
Score = 0
How fantastic to listen to an album that has not leaked and in which there were no reviews. I love love love it. Radiohead do it again. This is my album of the year.
Score = 0
funny to think that at 26 I actually subconsciously awoke at 7 am and finding I couldn't fall back asleep, went and checked my email for the info, downloaded the album, and listened to the whole thing. Some great, some a little flat, overall like the density and detail, gotta dig a bit to get through some of the more opaque passages. Anyways, had a little bit of a christmas morn feel to it. Love how bold the beginning of the album is, feel like the end could have taken a lesson from the first half. Back to sleep now.
Score = 0
I've been waiting since Oct. 1....3 min left in download.....arghgharghgargh!
Score = 0
what assholes! ohhh, i didn't pay anything, but the sound quality is 160 kbps....go pound sand!
Score = 0
I paid fuck all.
I love the album, especially Jigsaw Falling Into Place.
I want the actual cd. I'll get it as soon as it's released.
Score = 0
well I'm 31 and I was like a little kid at christmas at about 4am, but I feel asleep, woke again around 6am and downloaded it,,I actually thought about calling into work, just so I could listen to it over and over without being disturbed, but my other half wouldn't be to happy about that...nude is just a wonderful track, goose bumps!!!!!!!!!
Score = 0
Songs like House Of Cards and Nude are what 40-something Radiohead will have to be making. There are already enough 40 year olds axing their way through bars and grills with strats-- I'm more than willing to listen to Radiohead chill out for the rest of my life.
Score = 0
I paid $5 us dollars. I will buy the cd when it comes out.
Score = 0
Thanks to the stellar website, I paid $5.00 US...twice. No luck in getting that rectified, so I just forwarded the second email to a friend who is far too lazy to actually go through buying it on his own. I'll probably shell out for the discbox at some point also.
So far, it's possibly my favorite since "OK Computer" and definitely my favorite since "Kid A." I was always hoping they would at some point find a balance between the more straightforward work of their early stuff and the more experimental stuff that came later. I think they've done it here. Fantastic.
Score = 0
Matthew in London said "It's funny how the non-Radiohead fans like "All I need"??"
What rubbish! I think this is the best album since OK Computer. The soundscapes are breathtaking at times. For the record, the first time I saw Radiohead live was early 1994, and I have been a loyal fan of all their albums and seen them live 30+ times on four different continents.
I think 'All I Need' is a beautiful song. I've been looking forward to it since I saw it live last year. Just because people actually like it, doesn't mean it's not good. That's an uninformed and elitist attitude.
Oh, and I bought the discbox
Score = 0
trying to download it now with little success, but even if it takes all day, i'm so excited i could piss myself.
Score = 0
Someone, help! The repeat function on my iTunes is broken, I can only seem to listen to Radiohead over and over.
Score = 0
i can't believe that people are saying that "as a writer, thom is irrelevant." are you fucking kidding me? yeah, radiohead just turned the fucking music industry on its head and released this beautiful album, and people still think they have to be too cool for radiohead. if you think that the lyrics on this album are irrelevant, you're illiterate and have no sense of subtlety.
Score = 0
15 pounds, by the way.
Score = 0
I have only listened to 15 step but it is better than I expected.
This was an amazing experiment, hopefully one of the final nails in the current record industry model.
Score = 0
I appear to be in the minority, but I'm pretty disappointed by the album.
Having listened to the live versions of the new tracks quite a bit, I was very eager to hear what would happen in the studio to Bodysnatchers, Open Pick, Arpeggi, and Videotape. As far as Bodysnatchers goes, they got it right. Arpeggi and Open Pick=>Jigsaw, on the other hand, feel neutered. These songs in concert had a combination of subtle beauty and rumbling energy. On the album, the beauty's still there, but a lot of the energy seems gone (particularly in Arpeggi).
The studio version of Videotape makes me angry. I adore the original version of this song. The gradual percussion build makes it feel heartbreakingly beautiful and inspiring. The weird tumbling studio drums feel like a failed experiment, and as another commenter said, they distract from the song itself. Major missed opportunity here.
Overall the album feels very intimate, and maybe if I'd never heard any of the songs before I'd be more satisfied. But in several instances it feels like they tried to cram a big song into a small room, and the album suffers for it. I respect the band for trying out a new sound, and I need to listen a few more times, but right now for me this is a grade-B album, B+ at best. Which isn't bad in general, but I expect a lot more from RH. Curious to hear the B-sides.
Score = 0
On a first listen I am only impressed with 15 Step. I haven't seen Radiohead live. Seems to me people were predisposed to like the album, because they've heard most of the songs live.
Score = 0
I paid $2.95. I only paid so little because I plan on buying the cd when it is released. I have to have that physical product. I love the idea of a pre-release and that we were able to pick our price. I don't agree with those that paid nothing. I felt bad paying 1 pound. But like I said, I will buy the cd the day it comes out. I can't wait to download it and hear it!
Score = 0
On the first few listens I'd say songs 1-4 are the strongest.
Score = 0
Does Radiohead have a paypal account for fuckers like me who feel guilty for paying £0.00 for this album?
Score = 0
I got it for free, but also paid the 40 pounds to have the box set.
It's amazing, Audio quality is not good (obvioulsy), but I like a lot the course the album takes.
And I really love that scream on Nude!
Score = 0
I was bummed that the download didn't have cover art. I luckily found some on wikipedia this morning, but it seems to have been removed now.
Score = 0
seems like the only people that don't thoroughly enjoy the album are the ones that heard the songs live....i have never listened to the tracks live...so i had no idea what i was going to be getting myself into. and i'm glad i didn't because it was an amazing listen the entire way through. no disappointments at all....maybe now i will check ou the live tracks and see all the fuss about the ending of videotape...but even when i do. i won't be disappointed. because i'm already crazy about the record as it is.
Score = 0
I paid the 40 quid...can't wait for the LP to come.
Having listened to the bootlegs a ton of times since last years tours I was wondering how I would feel about the studio versions. For the most part I'm very happy (They could write shit and I'd still be happy). I'm most impressed by Reckoner. After the first listen through, that one stands out the most. I've always loved Nude/Big Ideas and I really like what they ended up with here. 15 Step has always been a fav and I guess we now know where they put that class of kids they were recording with (no clapping...but they got to cheer). I was disappointed a bit in Videotape...the live version is similar but by far better. My favorite live version was House of Cards which is duplicated here nicely...just missing the live ambiance that I got used to. I suppose it just reminded me of listening to it outside at the Marina in San Diego, which was lovely.
Score = 0
Apparently the American dollar is worse off than I thought. I paid 10 pounds thinking it would be about $15 and change. So...I paid $22 for the new Radiohead. I'm not complaining. The first two tracks are fantastic.
Colin Greenwood is so great.
Score = 0
I paid 7 Lbs. And sorta regretted it right afterwards. (only b/c im broke and could have just gotten it for the free free)
so far, (after first full listen).. it seems like 15-step really sets the bar for the album, and that it never really gets anywhere near that (As far as intensity and energy)... but there are some nice ballads, and Thom's voice is sounding amazing.. i like that they are experimenting with their drumming styles (or so it seemed to me)
Score = 0
I just started and I'm liking what I'm hearing.
As for the download experiement I would like to see more artists go this route. I paid 7 pounds so, roughly 15 bucks. I figured it's about the price of a cd and I barely buy cd's these days so, it was worth it.
This does open the debate about how in the long run artists will get paid. Traditionally it's a percentage of the albums but, mainly through touring where it happens. Will this lead to more of a push for artists to go into marketing and advertising? How many more Gene Simmons are going to pop up so, artist get paid? We'll see what happens with this first step. I guess Trent will be the next person to give this a shot.
Three songs in and I'm thinking it was well worth what I paid. Will this be the best album of 2007???
Any thoughts???
Score = 0
As usual, they tear down everything and build it back up again. I really like how minimal this record is. This is easily their most accessible album. Great variety and few if any weaknesses. The guitar and drum work really stands out to me on this album.
Score = 0
Ordered the discbox. As someone who was MASSIVELY disappointed by HTTF, I think they've redeemed themselves. Is it as good as OK Computer or Kid A? I don't know yet, but the fact that we're even having that discussion speaks volumes about the album's quality.
Score = 0
Paid $9 US.
This is going to be the soundtrack to my autumn and winter. I absolutely love it. The drum and percussion elements are really creative. Can't wait for the B-Sides.
Score = 0
http://www.gelfmagazine.com/gelflog/archives/radiohead_spreads_the_word.php
Score = 0
Finally Bellflur is better than Radiohead.
Score = 0
Just into the second listen and I have to say...everyone gets so pumped that the first listen is intense, and it's radiohead so you have to get adjusted to where the music is taking you...but already the second listen is soooo much better. Some are complaining about the sound quality...I didn't even notice until people mentioned it, and now I think I'm just being neurotic...
Score = 0
The last time I saw Radiohead was Bonnaroo '06 and I am blown away by how much better these songs came out in the studio.
I just want to say that I am more impressed than anything that people want to pay despite initially getting the album for free. It's just incredible, and yet another indication of Radiohead shutting down the system with such artful and credible command. I wrote about this today and hopefully it will reach a lot of people: http://media.www.redandblack.com/media/storage/paper871/news/2007/10/10/Variety/Radiohead.Experience.Surpasses.All.Wishes-3022139.shtml
I'm also about to order the discbox.
Everyone seems to be up in arms about Videotape - where could I possibly experience said original version??
Radiohead: blowing minds by turning the world backwards... always.
Score = 0
I purchased the discbox.
I've only listened to it twice through, but I'm really enjoying this album. I think it's their best album since Kid A. It feels cohesive and focused and lean, and yet really lush and deep.
BEN - Couldn't agree more that this album sounds like a band playing together in a room. These 5 guys are so in sync with each other now, it's ridiculous.
GABE - I love the drums too! Real jazzy and organic. They keep the album going forward from start to finish. Phil Selway is HUGELY underrated and overlooked, but his skills are undeniable on this album.
Score = 0
finally got it downloaded, and just finished the first listen. definitely good stuff. i had decided to take a "try before i buy" approach to it. if i decide i really like it, i'll be buying the discset before the week's over.
Score = 0
Listened as I went walking in the forest behind my house this morning - thought it was STUNNING
So good.
highlights were 'All I Need' (i'm an animal in your hot car"), Faust Arp, Open Pick, and everything else..
As for 'Reckoner' - is this the same song they used to play live? It sounds COMPLETELY DIFFERENT - wasn't there lyrics such as 'feeling pulled apart by horses' etc
i was waiting for RECKONER! PA! PA! PA!
But I digress and God bless the Radioheads
Score = 0
I paid $81.65 for the discbox :D
The album is very good. I don't think I would relate it to any other album they have put out thus far.The only song I am having a hard time liking is bodysnatchers.
Standouts thus far: Weirdfish/Arpeggi, Faust Arp, House of Cards, Kigsaw Falling into Place
Very good. I'm on my third listen.
Score = 0
I got the discbox
Videotape is brilliant. It is one of the more emotional songs on this record and I founded it to be extremely moving, that might just be from sleep deprivation though
Score = 0
One More Thing:
Is it just me, does anyone really like the fact that this way of releasing an album makes the whole listening experience much more communal and egalitarian?
We've got no reviews from elite publications to go on, and at this point early in the game everyone's take on the album matters and is interesting to read. I don't know if releasing it the traditional method would've garnered such a lively discussion.
Anyway, today is a great day for music lovers and people who like talking about music.
Score = 0
Amazing album so far... loving it. We paid 5 pounds for it ($11.00 us), and it's worth every penny and then some!
Score = 0
> Everyone seems to be up in arms about Videotape -
> where could I possibly experience said original
> version??
This is a very good recording (with strange visuals, but you can ignore them):
http://youtube.com/watch?v=o-eRM3_r1TI
Score = 0
woke up at 6a and haven't turned it off. am i the only one who thinks that the kids cheering in '15 step' sounds kinda cheesy? i was a bit skeptical when i read about their presence in the studio.
i'm sorry, that's my fault for not liking that single element. not radiohead's. i feel similarly to everyone else about 'videotape', my most anticipated song.
the track i was least excited about was 'reckoner' based on it's live cuts, but it may turn out to be my favorite on this album!
Score = 0
we got radiohead .15 seconds ago and here's our review, NOW!
Score = 0
VIDEOTAPE IS SUBTLE AND REWARDING ON REPEAT LISTENS. thom said they wanted it to be a repetative loop type feel and you can totally hear that. its emotional in it's restraint. i love it. i didnt like the build ups heard in the live bootlegs; i just liked the pretty beginning. this is like that but better.
Score = 0
Sadly I only got a partial listen in the car on the way to work this morning. Luckily, traffic was bad so I did get a few extra moments. Upon pressing play I got chills. 15 seconds later they were gone. (Although they did return for the track "nude", which is an initial favorite). I guess I am not sure yet about this album, which from my listening history is a good thing. The albums that take several listens to before figuring out are usually the best in my experience. The only thing I am sure of at this point is my disappointment with the lack of drums. The beats sounded flat and unimaginative (or maybe that was my Ford Contour’s speaker system, time will tell).
Score = 0
to the dan: thank ye kindly, sir!
Score = 0
i wanted hail to the thief and eraser beats and i got eraser esque lyrics and rainbow music, not at all dissapointed and somewhat in love
Score = 0
Goddamnit, my spam filter put the download email into my junk folder and took away precious hours I could have been using to listen to this album - to everyone else who "hasn't gotten the email yet," just check the Junk Mail...
Score = 0
Welcome back Radiohead! I've missed you since 1997 and after listening to the entire album, In Rainbows is the true follow up to OK Computer.
Score = 0
upon first listen this album feels like easy listening lazy radiohead, im a HARDCORE fan, like ive been checking the fan sites almost daily for years. how they have choosen to release this album is clearly stunning, i ran home from my girlfriends house this morning and was jumping up and down as my roommate unlocked the front door,upstairs in my room, this was it! 10 new studio tracks from fucking RADIOHEAD
,the first track feels loose, did anyone catch the "HEY!" childrens sample, nice touch. the second track bodysnatchers is also nice, the tones on SOME of the guitars sounds a bit to straight forward, like to edgy 90s. but thats a solid song....as for nude, i mean we've all heard this one a trillion times, i mean this song is on meeting people is easy, with tons of live versions floating around, im starting to see why they are giving this album away for free. nude feels to minimal and to over indulgent at the same time.arpeggi, i really like but sometimes the soaring back up vocals sound to new agey or musey,all i need feels similiar to nude, minimal but over indulgent, like thom yorke blowing a huge load on everyone, but in a way everyone is familiar with,faust arp took me by surprize, this track took me there, where ever there is, this sounds like new exciting radiohead to me,infact im listening to it right now, and its giving me chills,the vocals DONT cum in your face and i really like that.reckoner - damn it i just think of muse, how this song could (oh shit your gonna hate me) kinda sound like muse on a really really good day, okay house of cards, this is a huge huge let down, i used to dig up the youtube videos of thom playing this at the make trade fair demostrations,just to revel at how it could be done on recording, and they cheesed the fuck out of it man, the drowning in reverb vocals, jesus that song should be so much more clear and more straight forward... anyway huge let down there.i dont know how to feel about jigsaw falling into place yet, um i really like the bridge, it opens up there for me, but the melody that comes in just feels contrived. some of the singing feels cheesey to me, which is weird cause i used to be into the overindulgent vocal,but sometimes i feel cheesey muse in there and it scares me ....as for videotape,ill take the demo versions of that song,which are amazing works alone.dont hate me, im probley more of a HARDCORE radiohead fan than you, so dont give me that shit,i feel like my last hero is falling in some of these songs, this album CANNOT stand up and face a work like hail to the thief, no way, sail to the moon? go to sleep? are you kidding. scatterbrain, there there!? 2+2=5!!? in rainbows is not as good as hail to the thief and is DEFINATELY no OK computer,maybe you dont have a sence for what is actually good,and your just spreading it cause you heard radiohead was a good fuck,and maybe your listening to the album and didnt hear anything you DIDNT like and its radiohead so its fine, well , my friend thats not fucking good enough!!!!! everything is changing, like HAL from 2001 "i can feel it"
Score = 0
I paid nothing b/c as one poster pointed out, "they are actually forcing us to buy the CD when it comes out." Why should I buy it twice?
Score = 0
I also want to point out how refreshing it sounds not to have a shitload of digital artifacts left over from auto-tune. Young singers, take note.
Score = 0
After two listens (one at some godawful hour last night, and one just now) I'm happy with it. I had high expectations and I haven't been disappointed. 15 Step and House of Cards are my initial standout favorites. I bought to discbox and I can't wait to hear this on vinyl.
Score = 0
inoffensive, pretty, kind of boring but not bad.
i paid $0.00. a fair price, i think.
Score = 0
Overall, I think it is phenomenal, as expected. Great great great. It's been said already over and over, but it's just right out of the park.
As for Videotape: Does anyone else think it sounds somewhat reminiscent of Arcade Fire?
Score = 0
It's quite good. I paid $0, because mp3's aren't good enough to pay for. Ever. But I eagerly await the release of the physical CD -- one that doesn't come with an $80 price tag and a bunch of crap I don't want.
Score = 0
@Sean I definitely got the feeling that this album would play nicely with Neon Bible. I'm going to listen to Videotape again now.
Score = 0
I paid $1,000,000.00 for the new album. Cuz i'm like rich n stuff. I'm from SoCal . Aren't i cool? What's radioheads?
Score = 0
Reading through these posts, I can only think of one thing: All you people need to go to sleep.
Score = 0
Favorite song so far is "jigsaw falling into place". Really mellow so far.. I'm thinking this album will be a grower not a shower. I'm please on first listens, but not blown away. It is simplistic, but like most radiohead, I think depth is to be found here. Plus it was fucking free.
Score = 0
I listened to a lot of the live versions beforehand and I'm bummed Bangers didn't make it, but I'm that much more excited for the b-sides album. It's like getting a new Radiohead album in only a few months!
In Rainbows on the otherhand is so far so good (at Faust Arp). Little disappointed in the lack of energy on the harder songs - perhaps because of audio quality?
Paid nothing - getting discbox.
Score = 0
For everyone that paid 0 dollars... I don't know if I agree that MP3s aren't good enough to pay for, especially since Radiohead are obviously investing in the server capacity for all this.
I paid 10 bucks which I think is a fair pop for the right to listen to the songs at all.
Score = 0
I'm really liking it on my 4th listen through. I didn't hear the live recordings and I made my own cover art out of the inrainbows.com splash page, but I wished it would have come with some too.
It reminds me of 'Wolf At The Door' sometimes (and that song is freakin awesome, btw.) Basically, despite not getting enough sleep, I'm not disappointed in the least.
I paid 5 pounds. I'm not if I would have if I knew it would only be in 160kbps though. Worth paying something for definitely...
Score = 0
They really Amneisacked Videotape. The song is still beautiful but yeah I think Phil should have handled the drum part differently.
Score = 0
Well, after a 4 years waiting, I have to confess that I was way excited to listen to "In Rainbows". I had a lot of live tracks, so I had an idea of what was coming from The Radio Heads. So I came to work, thinking about the new album, got here, downloaded the stuff and......wow!
I´m still listening to it, for the second time already. And it´s incredibly amazing. I´m really sorry to say that I didn´t pay a buck, but thats because I live in Brazil and it´s totally crazy to buy stuff using my credicard from here. But anyways, I´m glad to listen to it on the exactly date it was released. Keep going Radiohead and Thom!
Score = 0
First of all, I downloaded it this morning before I left home. I am very excited for a new Radiohead album. Opening with “15 Step”, I realize, wait I have heard this before, Duh…Having a best friend consistently on top of all thing Radiohead is a definite benefit. In addition, we got to see them in concert recently. Over a year ago? Wow. I figured I would to my own evaluation song-by-song so here we go.
15 Step 7/10: I might be wrong…hehehe…but do I hear a bit of allusion to “Knives Out” here. Not being one of my favs and just a so-so choice for an opener, it does however set the tone for the album. The step drums are enticing and subtle background effects protest “Radiohead is back”. But wait, 2.45 in, crazy partial electronics jump in and I am liking the first track more in the last half.
Bodysnatchers 6/10: This is the most “raw” Radiohead song I have heard in awhile (Pablo?) A very simple yet intriguing riff accompanied by the always welcome Thom’s wail. I don’t really know how I feel about the song, it just seems like a sincere blast from the past. Like “15 Step” I find myself really getting into this one towards the end when Thom begins ranting. Much better here than live.
Nude 10/10: The long-awaited “Big Ideas” finally comes to album, and boy the wait has been worth it. Both Enchanting and Excellent …ALL OF IT!!!
Weird Fishes/Arpeggi 8/10: Love the build to an all out jam climax. If Orbital were a rock band, and that rock band was Radiohead, this would be their song. There is so much going on here yet it is still so minimal. “Weird Fishes” is appropriate with the feeling, wait I can see the video now…a stop and go flight through the sea…underwater adventure.
All I Need 10/10: Oh man… The first keyboard tone sets the mood for this whole track. Beautiful Dark Lovely…A love song for the night.
Faust Arp 7/10: Hmmm…interlude is what I get. Like the symphonic element. As simple as it gets. Seems like Thom just told the band to leave for two minutes then come back. It is a nice pause from the album.
Reckoner 10/10: THEIR BEST SONG IN YEARS…From music, orchestration, vocals, will never get tired of this one…a most pleasant surprise. Thanks guys ;)
House of Cards 6/10: Ehh…echo echo…hmmm…yeah…very chill, but I find myself yawning…but wait, strings again, I am liking it more, but am still waiting…forgetful house of cards…ouch was that harsh…did not mean to be.
Jigsaw Falling Into Place 7/10: Thom gets into this one…I think this one could grow on me. Could have easily fit onto “Hail to the Thief”. Nicely fits in with the rest of the album as a whole.
Videotape 9/10: When I first heard this song, I immediately fell in love with it. One of the most sad, beautiful, and yet uplifting Radiohead songs ever recorded. Will be a classic alongside the likes of “Street Spirit”. However, I may like the live version better. The drum machine seems a bit off. A perfect closer to a mostly seamless album…
In sum, Radiohead’s new album “In Rainbows” is a ten track, somewhat minimalistic studio effort. The production seems simplistic and effective. My only complaint is that I feel like I am not listening to a new album. These songs (most of them) I have heard either at the show I went to, or through the numerous live recordings I have come across. Yes, this is a NEW album. Am I excited? Yes. Do I like it? Yes. Is it new to me? No. Can I wait for the next eight tracks? No. I think as a whole, once all 18 tracks are assembled, this will be considered another Radiohead album that will go down in the history books. One that broke new boundaries in terms of merchandising, and tore down all previous notions of who Radiohead actually symbolize, in terms of a rock band, one that consistently can redefine themselves over and over to an extent very few bands can do, and do it well. Overall album review: 7/10
Score = 0
I like it enough that it makes me feel like a protective mother bear around it. Anytime I hear some criticism (especially the 160K one, enough already...), my back goes up and I am ready to fight.
Score = 0
Has anyone noticed differences in the track "15 step?" My buddy and I both have the cd, and when we played our tracks at the same time we noticed several major differences in the last 30 seconds. If you have access to multiple copies, please test and reply if you noticed the same thing.
Score = 0
$10 USD
It's incredibly beautiful. I'm in the middle of my second listen and have yet to listen with headphones. Love the strings throughout. Very pleased with Arpeggi. This is the perfect album to take me through Fall.
Score = 0
i got it for nothing, but im going to buy it when it comes out next year.
EPIC. OH GOSH. the drums are amazing.
im preticularly digging "bodysnatchers"
of course im only like 3 songs into the album, but so far so good.
Score = 0
I am pissed. I never have received my email today. I have been waiting. I have a confirmation code that I received when I bought it. But no link email today at all. And no way to follow up on it? Am I screwed? I paid $8 american.
Score = 0
Nice.
Uh still waiting to pay....but just downloaded what I could find on the net until then.. I plan on giving them like 5 bucks or so.
I really like the opening two tracks 15 and bodysnatchers (I kinda wish there were MORE body snatcher types on this album, because I love it). I really like the album, and the only track I can say I don't really care for is Nude. It's just not very interesting....maybe it will grow on me.....or maybe I'm just not in a quiet song space today.
The whole bs. about it being only 160 kbs thing is silly...it sounds great to me.
There is a bit of "wolf at the door" to the album.......which is not bad either.
Overall....really great.....and I love the way they decided to handle releasing it. It's SO hard to suprise an audience these days and they pulled it off.....plus I really bet they will make decent money doing it this way.
Score = 0
radiohead managed to bring back the excitement of listening to a new album. i'm 37 years old, it was around 10:30 p.m., and I was setting my alarm for 2 a.m. (to check e-mail) when i saw the light on my phone telling me i had a new e-mail. i checked it, and voila...NEW RADIOHEAD!!!
i felt like i was 8 years old xmas morning, except it was better. i transferred the files to my ipod, threw on some headphones, crawled into my warm bed, listened to it straight through twice, and then fell asleep with a smile on my face (sounds kinky, huh?...ha!). i didn't think that i would ever have that energy and excitement about a release again since i usually hear stuff a month before it's released anyways.
is the album good? great? average? bad? it's very simple to me, but also very lush and deep. it's great to hear thom's actual voice. it sounds very live. overproduced a bit? maybe, but definitely radiohead and not anyone else. i think we've come to expect too much from them and it's hard to reach these expectations. this album, released by anyone else, would easily be one of the best ever, but, it's radiohead. i just appreciate the trip back down memory lane that was given to me. thanks.
p.s. i bought discbox
Score = 0
Let me preface that I've listened to Radiohead for years. I've listened to this a couple times. All I can say is "Meh". I honestly think it's their worst yet. Completely boring.
Score = 0
BARRETT....quick smoking the weeds.
Score = 0
uh, what the fuck happened to 'reckoner?' it used to be a snarling rock song. now, it's just this enya-esque knockaround. i wipe my ass with enya guys, c'mon!
Score = 0
Bought the discbox. Absolutely amazing. It def. is a "rocking" RH album.
I couldn't wait to hear the studio version of ALL I NEED and I am def. happy with it. The album as a whole is def. one you can listen to from start to finish EVERY time.
It is a very simple yet effective album. A+++
Pay at least SOMETHING people. We trust them so let them trust us.
The 160 kbps is killing me though. I'll just have to wait till Dec. when my set comes. Until then, I be grateful for what I have now.
Score = 0
I paid $80 for the box - waiting to hear once I get home after the PJ Harvey show tonight... oh what a day.
Score = 0
From two listens, it sounds like Radiohead finally made a hangover album. It's largely mellow, almost delicate, surely a disappointment to all the kids out there who were too young for the releases of the Bends and OK Computer. Not exactly bringing the rawk. But I'm old and the baby was up again in the middle of the night and this fits me perfectly. Maybe not a hangover record so much as a teething record. HHTF was a bit of disappointment, but through two listens this one is coming in just shy of Holy Jeebus! awesome. Too soon to pick favorites -- I like them all. Hooray for Radiohead! Now if only I can get the kid to sleep through the night.
Score = 0
Again, whomever says this is "rocking" needs to go listen to some rock, and then check back in.
No...it's not. At all.
Score = 0
I've already heard most of these songs from the live bootlegs I downloaded a couple summers ago, but it's interesting to hear how they sound in the studio.
I paid $2, becasue I'll be waiting for an actual CD I can buy next year.
Score = 0
Again, this is not about rock in the sense of Rock n Roll. It's a kick ass album that has a great "rock" feel for what RH is. Is it Dollars and Cents? No. It has more of an edge to it (the majority of the songs that is) is all that I meant by it.
Score = 0
Ryan, it's Chuck Berry's birthday next week! Chuck Berry is rocking.
"Milo Venus was a beautiful lass
She had the world in the palm of her hand
But she lost both her arms in a wrestling match
To get brown eyed handsome man"
Score = 0
You guys are seriously approaching Harry Potter/Star Wars/Trekkie dorkitory....
Score = 0
Hmmm? It sucks, I think. 160kbp is a scam.
Score = 0
I like the first song and I'll likely enjoy the rest. I am glad this is a 10 track album. Hail to the Thief is a bit long in the tooth. I bought the 40 lb deluxe edition or whatever.
Score = 0
paid nothing. have most of radiohead's discography, don't listen to it very often. after one listen, i imagine i'll file this one in that category as well.
Score = 0
I haven't really heard any haters ...
I am stunned by this album, it kept me up all night and I haven't stopped listening yet.
I paid 10USD
Score = 0
A very subdued, yet very intense listening experience after twice through. Don't really care to compare to the rest of their catalogue, seems unjust. The layers are definitely there on most tracks, and should expose themselves on further listening. Beautiful music once again by one of the most intriguing artists out there.
Bought the discbox.
Score = 0
Nude is astounding. this album is without a doubt my favorite one yet. I paid $20 US dollars for it but it is absolutly priceless. I can't wait until the disc box is out. If Radiohead started a cult, i would join.
Score = 0
199 comments! it would rule if this was the biggest thread ever. 300! go for 300!
also: love the album so far, downloaded it like a scamp, but i think i'll plump for it anyway...10 lbs at current exchange rates sounds about right.
Score = 0
dang, my credit won't accept the transaction=== i dont think its over and all the info is right//////// anyone have any conversion issues?
i was tryin to give 10 us dollars -- 7.11 lbs or something... i guess i will just havta wait until they make a little white casette tape.
Score = 0
Bought the discbox...
It's been on repeat for a few hours now...
I love new Radiohead album days...
It's like Christmas...
PS - Stop complaining about 160kbs, like most of you even notice the difference...
Score = 0
i paid 5 gbp which is 10 US dollars. worth every penny on principle alone.
i'm loving the tracks, too! i'm not familiar with any of the live versions, but i love how it turned out in the studio.
staying up late last night to listen to it, knowing that there were thousands more around the world listening at the same time. genius!
Score = 0
Well after listening to it once i thought i wasn't too impressed, but now the third time around I've realised its awesome. It's like Radiohead doing lounge music or something, and it's NOT tacky like that might sound.
Score = 0
Weird Fishes!! and videotape is killer -- that drum clang is gut-wrenching.
Really looking forward to the discbox.
Score = 0
i'm a casual radiohead fan (hopped on with OK computer, went back and enjoyed the bends, liked Kid A, fizzled after that...), but haven't listened too much to these boys since then. wooo boy. the walk to and from class this morning was intense. 15 Step, Bodysnatchers, Weird Fishes/Arpeggi and especially Reckoner are the highlights for me after 1.5 listens. i can tell already that Reckoner is going to be on heavy rotation for quite some time for me...
paid about 3.5 quid/ $5ish
Score = 0
i paid $8.
i almost pooped myself when i heard the intro to "bodysnatchers".
best album of 2007.
Score = 0
I downloaded it this morning and listened to it on my iPod on the way to work. My initial impressions are very positive. It has a much more accessible sound than "Hail to the Thief," yet still retains the Radiohead vibe. Very good stuff.
Score = 0
i have more to say about this album,i want to say faust arp is a masterpeice, this song is nearly as good as nick drakes river man, thats saying alot, nick drake breathes the breath of a million or more souls in that song, also lyrics like "In the deepest ocean,The bottom of the sea,Your eyes,They turn me"
lyrics like that make me want to put money basicaly directly into there account, which is what it has come to. but after kid a and amnesiac, radiohead came to be known as the band that could break rules and do it well. trudge through the ice and brave the snowstorms and cold to stick a radiohead flag somewhere dark and deep and beautiful, i myself was convinced they were true pioneers,and they were musically. but the rules they are breaking now are different,i mean it feels pretty amazing to think that everyone on this blog has just heard it for the first time,with no blog writers shaking there fists or pitchfork weilding there blessings around beforehand.i can hear my roommate below me playing the album over and over aswell.its amazing to think of all the places and rooms that are buzzing with all this new music on oct 10th,that feels different, that feels ground breaking that feels new, that almost redeems the fact that its not up to my previous radiohead standards.so radiohead are still pioneers than but in a different way. im not sure they are still the pioneers or groundbreakers they once were musically,no one is who they used to be, these new songs have there moments for sure, but alot of obvious radiohead kinda tricks are applyed and it doesnt feel as deep and convincing as most of there previous works.i mean it has moments that are deep and convincing but i kinda feel insulted in a way that they think they can pass some of these ideas off as the real gold, i mean alot of people consider radiohead the real gold, but with this new album they might have dropped a few karets-MUSICALLY, they also gained a few with regards to letting people pay what you want as well,im started to realize some of the overindulgent qualities of this album like - why cant arpeggi just float along in an ambient vain instead of forcing the drums down my throat, it would have been just as strong a song without drums ,"all i need" feels like limp radiohead, and the singing in reckoner feels so new age cheesey to me, i cant get over how great a song house of cards is and how horrible they recorded it,i wanna slap radiohead on the wrist and say NO MORE REVERB,
Score = 0
It feels like everything else in the world at the moment is just a distraction from this album.
Score = 0
When TV on the Radio's "Return to Cookie Mountain" came out, I predicted that the new Radiohead would sound pretty similar. I guess in some ways I'm not that far off, it sounds like a jazzier take on it. "15 Steps" could be right alongside "I Was a Lover." That said, I'm a little disappointed the album's not really bigger, in a way. You know, Kid A had all those trumpets and distortion and whatnot. This is the most traditional thing I've heard from them in a while. This is, of course, based on 9 tracks on my morning commute and a couple of half-assed listens with the volume down at work. And I absolutely love "All I Need." Do you think we can say Radiohead sounds like Muse now, instead of the other way around?
Score = 0
am crazy excited. been waiting and waitin' was getting angry. then realized that my bastard email sent it to bulk folder. ecstasy awaits
Score = 0
I went to bed on Christmas eve hoping for new Superman pajamas.
I awoke to find a working Superman suit that would allow me to stop bullets, use x-ray vision, and fly.
Hyperbole?
Not in the least.
Truly beautiful music.
Thank you Radiohead.
Score = 0
Is anyone else waiting to hear it on vinyl first?
Score = 0
Keeps telling me my bank won't approve purchase! two pounds, fifty?!! I'm rich, Bitch! Dying out here in Encinitas, CA!
Score = 0
paid roughly $3.00/USD.
i can't stop listening to it.
will buy the vinyl/cd when it comes out.
plz plz plz let some U.S. tour dates come soon.
Score = 0
6 pounds = $12
I am shocked by how good this album sounds, even with the 160 kbps. I will admit that my expectations were lower for this album than with past radiohead albums released since OK Computer, so that might have something to do with it. As I've grown older, my music tastes have changed, and I feared that Radiohead would not sound quite as good as they did to me 3, 5, 7, 10 years ago. However, this album destroyed that theory after the first 2 songs. It's the only thing that I want to hear right now. In Rainbows is intense, quiet, sinister, brooding, rocking, etc. Everything that I could have wanted it to be. I'm predicting it will be in heavy rotation for me for quite awhile.
Score = 0
oh yeah...and it's my birthday. best gift ever.
Score = 0
I paid 10 USD just for the novelty of the system. I've only been able to give the album a single listen, but so far worth every penny, if not more.
Score = 0
alright, fine I'll be the one to say it because you've all thought it. The end of Nude is a rip off of the Little Mermaid. Just sayin.
Score = 0
I only had time to listen to 'videotape' this morning.
I love it. It's crazy how some peopel can't stand the drums- it changes things up, gives it a whole differnt feel.
I think maybe though I just love the song so much I couldn't be dissapointed with it.
Score = 0
I remember first listening to the bends in 1995, and loving it because it was different from anything else music had to offer. ok computer was different, kid a was different...
kid a, amnesiac, and hail to the thief form a solid sonic trilogy, but i am pleased to say that with In Rainbows, radiohead has finally moved on from that sound, and that stripped down/minimalist doesn't mean moving backward.
i seem to see a lot of it's not "_____" enoughs floating around. statements of general dissappointment in the fact that old elements from the radiohead arsenal are missing, or that you can't liken this album to it's predecessors. well a band's sound should evolve, not devolve. your favorite radiohead album isn't re-visited here (if anything it reminds me of the airbag ep, somehow, ostensibly).
with that said, this album is excellent. it is open, not constrained by layers of digital ticks and distortion. you will hear real drumming. you will hear thom breathing, and remark that he actually has space to do so. you will hear radiohead actually enjoying what they do.
yes this album is different, but isn't the variety what made you fall in love in the first place?
i bought the discbox.
Score = 0
$10.45 CDN
still listening, and will continue too, but the listening sounds good...
Score = 0
You hipsters are funny. It's just Radiohead. Give me a fucking break.
Score = 0
I paid $12 US and though my credit card has been charged I never received a confirmation email or downloading instructions. I've emailed the folks at InRainbows and so far, nada. Thanks, Radiohead.
Score = 0
Oh my god, this is something epic right here.
Bodysnatchers took me by surprise, easily my favourite track.
God I can't even decide anymore.
Score = 0
where do you download it i cant find it on their website
Score = 0
paid 10 pounds. 15 Steps my favorite. Can safely say best album of the year. Go cry about that Kanye West.
Score = 0
This is, in all seriousness, many shades of awesome. Thom York's lyrics are some of the most beautiful around today. The arrangements are amazing. On my third listen, and i'm gonna be listening all day.
I paid five pounds, and i gotta say, it is worth the eighty bucks the discbox costs, not the ten i put down.
Score = 0
So this morning I totally felt like Kelly from the Office in the "Business School" episode where Michael gets mad at Ryan and banishes him to the corner with Kelly and Toby and Kelly is just going "ohmygodohmygodohmygod" over and over and can't stand still.
That's all I wanted to share. The album is fucking beautiful.
Score = 0
If that damn website would have let me pay for the album, I was going to pay about $10 for it. The problem could have been my bank, as I was using a debit card, but still. Sometimes the Pre-order buttons weren't even available for like a minute. Options, man. Usability trumps "cool" sites.
So, I'm listening to a copy a friend gave me (he ordered the discbox), and I don't feel bad about it at all. I'll buy it when it's in the stores. Or wherever CDs will be sold in 2008.
Score = 0
What's everyone's timestamp for the email arrival? Mine came at 10:31pm, West Coast. I paid around $15 USD for the album. This may sound retarded, but I wonder if there is some connection between how much was paid and how soon you received the link. BTW - shame on all of you no-payers.
Score = 0
I think it's phenomenal and already my album of the year. I never thought that they'd be able to improve on the version of Nude that appears in MPIE but this version is unreal. My only complaint is Videotape, which is an amazing song but far better without the drums (i.e. the From the basement recording.)
Score = 0
Nude and Videotape are perfect. Who cares about the rest.
Score = 0
$10 US
Brilliant. Just going through the first few tracks and I love.
Score = 0
4.50 British Pounds.
Score = 0
I can only describe this album with hugs at this point...mmmmmmmm. Wow
Score = 0
Why shame on all us no-payers, Louie? Weren't we given the option to not pay? Are we stealing? Should we be sued? Do you want a cookie for paying $15? I know people who paid more. So shame on you, douchebag. I will buy a tangible copy of this album upon its physical release, but even if I didn't, why should people care? It's being offered for free.
Score = 0
Obsessive fan since OK Computer, now in my mid 20s and they can still do this to me. I went through some major shit this year (death) and this record made me curl up and cry like a baby during at least 5 songs (even bodysnatchers!). That's never happened with any other record on first listen, ever.
1 15 STEP really does sound like Peaches (listen to this and "Fuck the Pain Away"), and that's what Thom was going for. Plus the slinky spy guitar. Comes out of the gate dancing and twitching, like Airbag and Planet Telex before it.
2 BODYSNATCHERS. Seems like every record has one consummate Radiohead rock song, with the DNA passed on from Paranoid Android -> Optimistic -> There There -> Bodysnatchers. So much snarl to this one, and Thom screaming "I SEEN IT COMING I SEEN IT COMING" to end it is awesome in the studio.
3 NUDE is aching and gentle and timeless, like it always deserved to be. The little bit of Beach Boys shine to it is probably the contrast that was missing from earlier versions.
4 WEIRD FISHES/ARPEGGI. Nigel Godrich pulls his weight with those extremely natural-sounding arpeggios that he sprinkles all over his work with Air. Jonny on Rhodes for the buildup is ridiculous.
5 ALL I NEED. All religions are a form of sun worship, right? Joseph Campbell and Carl Jung talk about the sun being the ultimate universal symbol of life and creation. So they end this one with Thom singing "The sun The sun The sun" with glockenspiels climbing higher and higher.
6 FAUST ARP. Ha, "Wakey wakey." Nice little White Album-ish breather, starts the 3 song happy run that they've never tried before. Really captures the woodsy acoustic thing I got out of the Trade Justice rally bootlegs.
7 RECKONER. Bait and switch, motherfuckers. I wanted skull-crushing apocalyptic guitars and... is this the same song, really? But it keeps growing on me and that sunny-but-minor thing reminds me of 60s "Time of the Season" or "California Dreamin'," which is pretty great.
8 HOUSE OF CARDS. My only complaint is that the three pretty/happy songs in a row chips away at the energy that they've built up by this point. But like somebody said, I could listen to blissed-out aging Radiohead forever.
9 JIGSAW FALLING INTO PLACE really takes the song out of the "Trickster" space it occupied live and carves out a real identity for it. Deserving of the penultimate Lucky/Morning Bell spot, but does anybody else wish it was longer?
10 VIDEOTAPE made me feel betrayed on first listen and almost ruined the whole thing for me because all of my favorite parts have been gutted. But that's my fault for coming in with expectations - we have to assume they tried that "godlike" version and it just didn't pan out in context. I hated what they did to Motion Picture Soundtrack at first, too, but now I'd never trade it for the guitar version. And this one sounds better every time I hear it, so...
Yes, In Rainbows has things about it that disappoint me, but so did Kid A at first. And I haven't liked any of their records so much on first listen since OK Computer. Give the newer stuff some time to grow on us and it's probably another classic. It really feels like the White Album to me because it strips everything down but swaggers more than ever at the same time. Now watch Pitchfork shit all over it just because they can.
Score = 0
so apart from faust harp, 15 step, bodysnatchers and videotape (minus the trying to hard to be weird drums) this album is thom and the gang blowing a load in everyones faces and yawning at the sametime,you probley just think im some dumb lamen trying to pick a fight in the lions den but infact ive been an extremely obssesive fan in the past.... i really feel they should have went with a REALLY solid EP instead of all the filler of all i need(got the point thru all the youtube videos), nude(same as all i need),reckoner(nearly muse),and the bombed take of house of cards(actually a really great song), ..i suppose its nearly illegal to speak out against radiohead, i wonder about the people who heard it and denied there REAL feelings cause its RADIOHEAD. no one has a strong opinion anymore. nearly everyone lays on the bed and gets beaten up, im more excited about the music that deerhunter is making than i am about most of this new album
Score = 0
oh: paid what, $80 for the discbox? worth it, even for my broke ass.
Score = 0
Pablo Honey - one great song
The Bends - "is the same band? wow...who would have guessed?"
OK Computer - terrifying, shocking, absolutely mind-warpingly good
Kid A - officially this generation's Beatles. no one can touch these guys
Amnesiac - only radiohead could scrape together such a great record out of leftovers and experiments.
..Thief - a little long, but great songs and arrangements.
In Rainbows - it's certainly good, but if I'm honest I find it a little boring. sort of sounds like any band could have put this together, and doesn't seem all that special to me. I feel like the tracking is wrong or something....the arrangements feel flat, and I'm just left with a feeling of "OK, that was good but let's find something else to hear".
I have the discbox on order, so here's hoping the second set of songs moves me more.
Score = 0
I can't get the fucking website to work. I didn't preorder and I can't get in to order now. Fuck. FUCK. I'm going to try to get it off Soulseek, but I'll be paying four pounds, or $8, when I'm able. FUCK. I need to hear this now.
Score = 0
OMGOMg is that Justin Kelly?!!
Justin Kelly the deerhunter fan??
Score = 0
The best way to release an album. No crap media reviews to mull over, etc.
Loving the crap out of this on the 3rd-4th spin now.
Paid 5 US.
Will end up picking up the box as well.
Score = 0
Has anyone else had trouble buying the album right now? Radiohead's server keeps "updating my basket" without letting me pay. Argh! The pain. And I thought there was no need to pre-order it...
Score = 0
My birthday is tomorrow and I feel like Radiohead sent me a present early. "All I need" is something special and the whole album is really strong. I paid $0.00 and kind of feel guilty, but will pick up the CD whenever it comes out to make amends. Now if only Radiohead would come to North Carolina.
Score = 0
didn't pay intitally, thinking i would pay after listening if i liked it, which i think is fair. didn't dig it. don't know what all the indie rock kids like so much about radiohead. kid a was pretty great, admittedly, but the rest of their catalog is pretty mediocre i feel, and kind of commercial sounding at that. and i don't mean that in a 'i won't buy it if it's not on an indie or sounds raw' kinda way. i mean it as in the sort of formulaic cues and choices similarly found in hollywood movies. i know i'm being vague with that description, but maybe you get the gist?
too much pitchforkey fuss, people. btw, did you hear sufjan and girl talk and deehunter probably ate lunch today? more later as news develops...
Score = 0
when was the last time there was a communal listening experience as vast as this? i'm gonna take a stab and say it was the day the beatles released "sgt. pepper" over 40 years ago.
brilliant move by a brilliant band. oh, and of course the album's brilliant as well. certainly worth the 2 pounds i contributed (knowing full well that i would be contributing more when the hard copy comes out).
Score = 0
i paid the 40 pounds for the discbox.
my premature evaluation is that it's a solid radiohead record, concise (was "hail" too long for anybody else? even if it wasn't, 42 minutes is a pretty perfect album length) and beautifully recorded.
we'll see if it holds up - i suspect it will, this band's got a few growers under its belt - and i'm sure there'll be naysayers (many just reacting largely to the hype on the method of release, etc.), but right now it's a pleasure to listen to.
Score = 0
So... we've decided it's better than the new Bloc Party?
Score = 0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9UUEpgdkgw
Score = 0
First of all, the email never came...after I paid $80 for the discbox. I went ahead and paid 3 pounds plus tax for the download which I'm guessing rounds out to $6 US dollars. Not too happy with their customer support but very satisfied with the album.
I like every track except for bodysnatchers (because I can barely hear Thom's melodic voice), Reckoner is just not the rocker I was expecting and it sort of melds into the songs around it. As for House of Cards, I just never liked it.
Now on to what I blew me away: All I Need, Nude, and Arpeggi. These songs made me feel like I was watching the sea burn as the sun went down from a safe distance yet close enough to hear the glorious waves. Oh so lovely and surreal. As to Videotape, up there with the best Thom's ever written, sure it's not as good as the From The Basement session but haunting none the less. I need to hear it more to get an idea for the whole album.
Score = 0
i think people who are skeptics just don't get this album or like the band...
if you like OK Computer, Kid A, The Eraser, this album will fully satisfy you
I got the box set because i'm an obsessive fan and a completist but bias opinions aside, i'm still confident in saying if you like those 3 albums, this one is like a hybrid of the 3 and is comparatively enjoyable, plain and simple if you don't like it you dont truly like the band to begin with,
best album of year so far, i like it more than person pitch, S.J, Battles, SO FAR, we'll see....
Score = 0
The website/checkout page is definitely not working right now. I had to find a zip file elsewhere, even though I was willing to pay 15$ for it.
Score = 0
Fucking SHITE! Eez fucking nipples aren't a band. My band is far superior!!!
Score = 0
Oh dear. I certainly hope this is a grower, as nothing has really stunned me as of yet - that's after repeated listening since last night. :sigh:
I acknowledge that it may be my fault rather than the album's =..[
Score = 0
$20.00 USD- met my wife at a Radiohead show years ago. They've enhanced my life since pablo honey and I feel like I owe them. I respect the experiment as Radiohead will continue making industry altering music. In Rainbows- cohesive and beautiful.
Score = 0
Back to bed Liam!! Wanker. What's this? Fuck Radiohead. Fucking bullocks, man.
Score = 0
15step-8/10 bodysnatchers-7/10 nude-8/10 apreggi-8/10 allineed-9/10 faustarp-9/10 reckoner-8/10 houseocards-5/10 jigsawfalling-8/10 videotape-7/10----4minutewarning-9/10???? downisthenewup-10/10????-------inrainbows-8/10
It's pretty damn good, and it sure is better than I thought it would be based on the live versions. Better than Hail To The Theif, but still not quite as amazing as OK Computer/Kid A, but rarely is anything ever that good.
Score = 0
Tight. Upfront. Modern. Best vocal performance as yet by all parties involved. Fantastic showing by the rhythm section. I paid $81 for the discbox and Amen. Nevermind the fact it's the gift that keeps on giving. Can't wait for the vinyl and the donwood and the additional tracks. Bravo.
Score = 0
Loving it...
Now give me the other eight songs! :)
Score = 0
streaming: http://ethanzimman.blogspot.com/
Score = 0
bought the box...
i was afraid the album wasn't going to be very good...i was let down by HTTT - loved the live recordings before the record came out, but the album just didnt do it for me. my least fav radiohead album.
and i didn't really like the live recordings for in rainbows aside from a few songs - but the songs turned out really great on the record! much better than i anticipated. actually brought me nearly to tears on a few songs.
not as good as ok computer/kid a - but really really great nonetheless.
too early to say for sure...but i think this is how it goes for me:
1. okcomputer
2. kid a
3. thebends
4. in rainbows
5. amnesiac
6. pablohoney
7. hail to the thief
Score = 0
So, so good. Woke up early to download it before heading to the office this morning and it was definitely worth it. I've listened three times now, and it just keeps getting better. Bodysnatchers - WOW!
Score = 0
http://rapidshare.com/files/61633167/Radiohead_-_In_Rainbows.zip
Score = 0
I bought the discbox for about $80, with free download.
I think the album is amazing. Read my full review:
http://theskyreport.blogspot.com/2007/10/radiohead-in-rainbows_10.html
Score = 0
They call it minimalism I call it “organic.”
That was the first word to come to mind after my first listen through at 1:30 AM. I was happy to see I’m not the only one to use the word. (And even happier I’m not the only one who stayed up all night.)
As someone who saw and heard bootlegs of the new material live. I wasn’t at all disappointed, there were still surprise.
Faust was a immense surprise. Thanks Brian for the Elliot Smith and John Lennon comparison. I hadn’t thought of Smith, but you’re right. My thought was that it could have been white album track.
I was hoping they’d go the “ether” route for Arpeggi, but I’m still not disappointed.
I love the percussion on Videotape; I was surprised to read that I’m a minority on that one.
Reckoner was a huge surprise, too. It’s not at all the same, but it’s definitely growing on me. I really like that the words are almost secondary to the notes. Yorke’s voice is defiantly a unique instrument, and this track is a great example of it. (I don’t care if he doesn’t like his voice, I think it’s brilliant.)
And the strings … Jonny Greenwood is a genius.
I’m very happy. I’ve never worked the “repeat” button so hard…
(for the sake of those keeping track, I bought the discbox and have no regrets.)
Score = 0
i love it... after living with last year's boots only videotape is falling short of what i expected. i miss its catharsis. this version seems much more resigned.
faust arp and reckoner were huge surprises. right now reckoner is my favorite track. like brian i hear elliott smith in farp. reckoner reminds me of U2's please (which thom sang at some show awhile back). guess he's a Pop fan.
no matter how old i get new radiohead makes me turn into a little kid on xmas morning.
discbox
Score = 0
again I ask.. is the album version of RECKONER the same song they played live here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc_3R2-TIJk
>>>>>>> ??????????
PA PA PA?
Score = 0
Paid 2 pounds, but then again I'm ordering the discbox soon.
This album is every bit of perfect. Just fucking amazing in every sense. If you want to hear OK Computer, go fucking listen to it. Radiohead has progressed their sound perfectly and have created a beautiful and cohesive album that is every bit as good as OKC and Kid A.
Videotape is stunning. Possibly the best Radiohead song I've ever heard. The staggered percussion is genius. All I Need and Faust Arp are brilliant too. And I'll take kids clapping and yelling any day. Makes 15 Step even better.
And to the person who said they'd rather hear Deerhunter: you're functionally retarded. I heard and saw them live years before the hype-fest that Pitchfork created, and they have always been terrible. But liking them explains your taste in music.
Score = 0
Absolutely amazing. Hell, it's one of the best albums ever, right next to OK and Kid A. 10/10
Shame on anyone who's whining because most of the songs have been around the web for a year. Since when is it a bad thing for bands to play "new" songs on tour? That's the whole point, they're "new" and will probably appear on the next release.
My one complaint concerns Videotape. It's an incredible song, but the version they played on tour last year is even better. Here's a recording of it from Boston on 6/4/06: http://www.mediafire.com/?2dgrgmhdvlr
I bought the discbox and can't wait for it to ship. It's Radiohead and a special event of sorts so those reasons justified spending $80 on an album.
Score = 0
this is the best performance of "videotape" -
http://youtube.com/watch?v=So_JEs2FVeA
the quality of the recording is iffy, but i think the drums kick in at a better spot than on later performances.
7 listens in, enjoying it but still hating on "videotape."
Score = 0
£5 beautiful album... let the dinosaur be crushed!
Score = 0
I don't believe I've ever had such a touching, breathtaking experience musically as when I first listened to the album version of "Nude." I just sat there, mouth agape, staring through my laptop's screen. That song alone is worth whatever price I'll pay. (As I said earlier, I can't get the site to work, so I temporarily downloaded it off Soulseek.)
It's an excellent album, probably at least a 9/10. I feel as though they dropped the ball on a couple of songs, though. Bodysnatchers, 15 Step, and Videotape really had better live/demo versions, but the final recordings are still great.
Score = 0
2 pounds 45 pence aka 5 American dollars
I can't comment definitively because I think it takes at least a year for me to get over new Radiohead albums.
I totally stayed away from the live stuff and am not disappointed by the album. It may need to grow on me to rank with/surpass the classics, though.
They sound relaxed. Somewhat happy. Like they're done with everything experimental they've wanted to "try out" and are now settling into doing whatever the fuck they like, whether it be guitar rock, big drums, or drum n bass.
We need to take a collective deep breath and let it sit in our gullets awhile.
Score = 0
Not the biggest Radiohead fan here but I have most of their albums on good ol' fashioned records anyway; I think this is a pretty solid album right here. The first five songs are a terrific run, and "15 Step," and "Bodysnatcher" are particularly great. I'm not a fan of "House of Cards" and I wish "Videotape"'s percussion 'unwinding' had gone a little more ... something. But definitely better than the underwhelming and badly titled HTTT.
But I'm writing mostly to say that if you think this is the best album of 2007, you haven't heard Dirty Projectors' "Rise Above" LP. There seems to be this weird myopia among Radiohead fans that thinks they're the best band in the world simply because they're the most famous band that is actually great. Anyway,
"Rise Above" came out on a small indie label, Dead Oceans ... amazing, and it's been totally ignored/underappreciated by the music press. Go find the first song, "What I See" on SoulSeek or get the whole thing as a torrent; you will love the first song, and you will keep listening, and you will think, "I'm glad I followed the advice of that random Stereogum poster that wrote a message about this record that read like spam."
Score = 0
actually nfaderman, i learned about them and the song "no more" through stereogum already
http://www.stereogum.com/archives/tour-dates/dirty-projectors-played-mercury-lounge-we-secondha.html
and i totally fucking agree -- they are amazing
Score = 0
sounds like rather ripped. doesn't mean it's bad though.
Score = 0
no tommy im not functionally retarded, im a huge radiohead fan thats the thing, some of the tracks just dont measure up to what a normal radiohead album studio track offers, a song like backdrifts jolted me into a fantasy world of where they might go next, nude,all i need,reckoner,jigsaw falling into place,these all sound like radiohead b sides, in fact i like some of there b sides better ....keep in mind that , Polyethylene,cuttooth,worrywart,a reminder,true love waits,and how i made my millions are all radiohead b sides...if your a really serious radiohead fan you will know this....tommy, this new album is NOTHING like OK computer, reckoner sounds like moby did the beat.,do you remember ok computer tommy? the sound they got with that album seemed to be based around live band takes, these songs feel very protools to me, its so funny to see everyone on here like bobble heads,i mean its radiohead, kinda like this safe bet for novice hipsters, i mean they heard so many times that they are amazing so . ...they must be, and they are,im less convinced they are the gold with this record.something went wrong somewhere, go to pitchfork right now and watch the take of arpeggi.its far superior to the album version . speaking of pitchfork it will also be interesting to see how they react, it seems in there interest that this album "works".
Score = 0
Justin Kelly...
Funny you should say..."some of the tracks just dont measure up to what a normal radiohead album studio track offers".
What the f is that? Who are you? Radiohead?
Accept the album for what it is, not on what you "think" it should be.
My god...
Score = 0
I'm rather pissed off at those people who were boasting about getting the download by offering $0.00, and now they're complaining about the bitrate being less that CD quality.
Here's an idea: buy the damn record.
For cryin' out loud, illegal downloading has turned people into friggin' idiots.
DwD
Score = 0
Please do not download IN RAINBOWS from rouge links. This is a RADIOHEAD experiment - participate! Contribute! Eliminate the suits!
Use the website.
Sounds lovely so far. I paid $9 US.
To the people who didn't get the email - it's in your junk mail!
Enjoy,
D
Score = 0
I like it. I don't care about the bitrate because I plan on buying the CD when it comes out. I just didn't have the scrilla to shell out 40 quid (which is $80 US), so I paid 10 quid for the download. Anything to support my most favorite band.
Score = 0
After Radiohead's shock-and-awe approach to album release, it's kind of surprising how conventionally "pretty" In Rainbows is. The guitars are largely acoustic, or warm, jazzy electrics. The rhythms are mostly straight-forward. There are electronics, but mostly in the form of pleasant synth washes. The album is definately good, but time will tell if it's really going to get under my skin. There are occasional moments of take-notice experimentation, but for the most part, Radiohead are working within their comfort zone.
Score = 0
this is to the guy who can't read and thought i said i'd rather listen to deerhunter. i was talking about how pitchfork hypes truly horrid bands, speaking about how hype makes taste for some. radiohead is a fairly interesting radio band who for some reason a certain contingent of hipsters think are immensely innovative and interesting.
and to that guy, don't call people retarded. are you 9 years old?
Score = 0
Bought the discbox. I'm not sure about this album...I've been listening to it all day, and honestly it seems a little dreary to me.
Score = 0
I just gave it my first listen I payed 10 Us dollars, and really think it is worth every penny. Radiohead always seems to always be one that continues to amaze me. So far I really love the songs " Bodysnatchers" and "House of Cards"
-Justin
Score = 0
Um, maybe it's me, but I can't get onto the site to download the album. :( I just get a blank white page at inrainbows.com. Or is there some other trick to getting it that I am totally ignorant of??
I'm also torn because payday isn't until Monday, but I am DYING to hear this album!! So I'm not sure how much I should pay for it, but I'm glad everyone thinks it's awesome.
Score = 0
just got home from work...finally downloaded....appregi is awesome.
Score = 0
Downloaded my copy on a torrent! Ha ha! Well at least some of the tracks are good. The rock-ish ones anyways.
Score = 0
Radiohead finally got the balance between live and canned instruments right. "In Rainbows"is like Kid A with a pulse. Simple jazzy guitar parts ("15 Step") make the listen more interesting for the display of technique and the odd musician's choice ("What do we play Here?") than overall great song-writing. Steve Albini put it best when he called Radiohead "tinkering millionaires," & the production bears that out. The sound-scape should have a greater sense of space (perhaps a more extreme stereo mix) with more defined attacks on the synthesizers. Sharper vocalizations by Thom could carry the songs, rather than bobbing him along like a bouncing beach-ball. Some arrangements are weak, don't move organically enough & get repetitious. As a musician I like it, but I'm a sucker for catchy songs, which they aren't (by my fourth listen). My review sounds critical, but only because I favor succinctness in arrangement & editing, & clarity in production. Bottom line: I like it "In Rainbows," worth the 5 Pounds I plunked down to stick it to the man!
Score = 0
Beautiful, full, orchestral sound. Paid 0, but I will buy the CD. Of course, with Radiohead, i need to listen about 30 more times to develope an opinion as to how this album stacks up with other albums, but so far I like it more than any album since ok computer! Finally, some serious music for the earbuds!
Score = 0
heavenly.
Score = 0
i think i am dead inside =\
i still cant find much joy in any of this after 10 listens or so
someone shoot me
Score = 0
Hey to Erin having trouble with the d/l of In Rainbows,
Check your default download folder or do a general search on your computer for the inrainbows.zip file. If you don't turn anything up, give the service team at -
downloadinrainbows@waste.uk.com
They were genuinely helpful and efficient when dealing with my issues canceling the download order and re-ordering the discbox.
Cheers!
Rob
Score = 0
absolutely gorgeous. thom's voice is ethereal, the arrangements are lush, and everything else is simply sublime. definitely on par with OKC.
Score = 0
it sounds like radiohead. it sounds like the eraser. nothing too exciting. nothing anthemic. only a sparse few even stuck with me. i paid $0 and i wouldn't pay more now.
Score = 0
I have to say I like this less and less as time goes on. At first it was really "WOW" but now some of the longer songs are getting annoying with repeated melodies that really aren't that great... Some of these songs stack up with their best ("Nude", "Reckoner", hell even "Faust Arp") but "Bodysnatchers", "Arpeggi", and "House of Cards" aren't really melodic enough to carry the same tune for 4+ minutes. Radiohead's bridges and transitions have always amazed me (ie. practically all of the songs in "OK Computer") but there aren't many of those moments on this album.
Score = 0
I paid like $1.50 and I would have paid the full price, but I am curious and wanted to test this experiment. I definitely will see them on tour when they come around. And it will be the most amazing night of my life.
And also, for all of you who are saying: "YOU GUYS SHOULD HAVE PAID MORE! WHAT KIND OF FAN ARE YOU? IT ISN'T RIGHT!" . . .Why do you care so much?
Album is pretty darn amazing. Nothing groundbreaking, but very pleasing to my ears.
Score = 0
I downloaded it using bittorrent because I was expecting Radiohead's servers to slow to a crawl. The fact that the site stopped responding when I went to pay makes it look like a pretty good choice...
I've listened to it a few times now and it's a pleasant surprise. I haven't really listened to them since Kid A but this is one of the best albums I've heard this year.
Shame it's only 160Kb MP3. VBR would have been a better choice since it gives you higher quality at the same file size. Having said that it doesn't sound bad to me. They're using a decent encoder (LAME) so it sounds a lot better than some 192Kb+ files I've found online. People should at least give it a listen before complaining.
It's definitely worth a few $ for the music, and to give the music industry some sleepless nights...
Score = 0
So, am I more computer-illiterate than I thought, or is the site down?
Score = 0
I've listened to it four or five times now, and I just have no idea what to make of it, except...
http://contempblog.blogspot.com/2007/10/before-night-owl.html
Score = 0
let me preface this with the fact that i have been ardently following radiohead since 1996 at roseland... i think in rainbows is their best work since kid a (as an album). there were some better tracks on httt and maybe on amnesiac, but this is the best album. i too am disappointed by the new videotape - but you have to admit- it is pretty darn good. don't love reckoner and house of cards (think they didn't do that one justice). do love nude - not as good as it was a long time ago but better than on the last tour. if this was anyone else we would all be going nuts about this album but because we always compare it to the iconic okc and kid a we are always left to want a little more. i for one am happy. and i think the second disc will be just as good - wish down is the new up made the album. this album is simpler, more direct and more genuine than any other in their canon and those facts set it apart. it doesn't need to be another okc or kid a. in rainbows is pretty damn great by itself.
Score = 0
After a couple of listens I realise this album will become a definite favourite. It took several listens to realise how brilliant HTTT really was, whose name was as equally brilliant. I can't understand those people who are complaining about the bitrate but downloading it for free, or even using a torrent. What is the point?
As for 'in rainbows' there are a couple of standouts for me, arpeggi and nude (studio recorded), reckoner and videotape. Videotape to me has a 'street spirit - esque' to it as it finishes off this ethereal album. A welcome surprise.
A lot more vocals than I had expected. I just wish all these arrogant, Radiohead fanatics can realise everyone is entitled to their own individual opinion. Who cares how many B-sides you have compared to the next? Get over yourselves!
in rainbows - a wonderful listen
Score = 0
I'd feel bad if I didn't add to this massive thread like everyone else.
so...... it's bloody brilliant. the whole thing.
Score = 0
Seems that the high pitch part (Jonny on the Ondes Martenot again?) in bodysnatchers is a reference back to The National Anthem
Score = 0
Not an obsessive fan;
I know their albums but never heard any of these songs before.
Bodysnatchers is really excellent; it goes on my iPod.
The rest, I'll listen to a few times, but likely won't obsess over.
Looking forward to hearing what's on the second disc, though.
Score = 0
Fucking amazing. I can't believe this, it meshes together so unbelievably well. The strings are amazing, the drums are amazing, the bass is amazing, the lyrics are amazing, Thom's voice is amazing. Eat some porridge and punch my grandmother, album of the year.
($5 CDN, btw, after trying to download it all day)
Score = 0
It is immediate, I thought, to the core. I don't know how anyone could guage where this stands in their overall catalogue this early on. Like the with the Beatles, fanatics and followers develop attatchments to different albums at different eras of their affection for this band. It's usually a very personal affair. I think this record will have a healthy impact on this era of my life and interest in radiohead.
Score = 0
I loved whoever asked if this was better than the new Bloc Party record.
I bought the discbox and I really love the album.
Score = 0
It is immediate, I thought, to the core. I don't know how anyone could guage where this stands in their overall catalogue this early on. Like the with the Beatles, fanatics and followers develop attatchments to different albums at different eras of their affection for this band. It's usually a very personal affair. I think this record will have a healthy impact on this era of my life and interest in radiohead.
Score = 0
Awesome!!! Another new direction for Radiohead. My mind get all bent up just trying to process it. These five guys are so damn good it pisses me off. I can't wait to hear this thing on wax!!!
Score = 0
Radiohead has now crafted the best album ever. All other bands should officially drop the guitars and drumsticks and quit touring. Just got done listening to it for the 9nth time today. Seriously, this is pure musical genius. In Rainbows will definitely not be forgotten in a week after all this name-your-price-download thing is over. No way, this album is neither depressing or boring. No siree. OMG I want to have RH's kid, and I'm a straight dude. Crap... Reckoner is on again, time to change the shorts, I think I just cummed in em again.
ps. I payed $5 u.s. and consider it payment directly to the band for the money I never payed for Kid A.
Score = 0
It is just ok.
Honestly, it's not a big deal album at all. In fact, it's kind of lackluster. Amnesiac is better. This just sounds like a denser, more organic version of the Eraser. The production feels like a rainy, dull day, and all the reverb gets old pretty fast. There are some decent songs but nothing that blows my mind (15 step is pretty excellent, though). There are some moments of beauty, but they're swimming in a sea of some mostly boring music (which, perhaps, is subtle, but feels altogether uninspired). The lyrics seem, from what i can gather, overly sentimental. There is nothing new or groundbreaking about this.
Score = 0
Incredible piece of work. It'd be better if they didn't use echo effects for every other song, but it's still a piece of fried gold. Looking forward to getting the discbox.
Paid $0. Worth $80.
Score = 0
I hereby retract what I said about Videotape-after about 10 or so listens the falling percussion doesn't bother me as much as make the denouement more interesting and urgent.
Paid: $0
Sense of entitlement: Priceless
Score = 0
Recent Radiohead listener. 42. When I say recent I mean, like in the last month. Have fallen in love with everything.
In Rainbows is beautiful. Gorgeous. Faust Arp to Reckoner to House of Cards, right through to the last moments of Videotape. This album gets more and more beautiful as I listen and as it builds.
Paid $!0 American. Perfect price. Only hope we get to find out the purchase numbers.
Score = 0
Hmmmm...so far I'm having difficulty latching onto any one song in particular. It's good background music. There's nothing that I like as much as say, "Optimistic" or "Paranoid Android," but the fact that I paid $9 to give a big F-YOU to the record companies makes it well worth it.
Score = 0
I'm late at joining in on this comment fest, but, better late than never, right?
When I clicked the link in my email for the zip file of the album, it said that my activation code had already been used. Needless to say, I was upset. So, later yesterday evening, I just grabbed it from my roommate, and listened to it twice while on a walk.
Oh, and I payed $2.69 (American) for it.
It is definitely the first Radiohead album since "OK Computer" that I can say I absolutely love every single song. So yeah, I'd go ahead and say that "In Rainbows" is perfect.
Score = 0
Among others, Faust ARP does it for me. $8.00
Score = 0
Very good album, I agree with the strings comment too, and it's probably a "grower" as well. Best songs so far: 15 steps, Bodysnatchers, All I need, Faust arp.
I paid 0 pounds because I don't have a credit card and my EFTPOS card didn't work. I live in Ecuador and having something released here it's impossible. No Radiohead album has ever been issued domestically so I usually wait for someone to travel overseas for me to get a physical copy, that's also why people download (and sometimes illegaly!).
If I ever get an international credit card (and money) I would pay those 40pounds. But I doubt the discbox would arrive here in Quito. Mmm. I really apreciate Radiohead/W.A.S.T.E. giving everyone a fair chance to listen to the new album so that EVERYWHERE (and there are many cities/places that don't) there is an intenet connection people can enjoy "In rainbows" music legally, with the rest of the people in other -more advantaged?- parts of the world, without having to pay exorbitant import prices, and most logically doing nothing against the best band in my lifetime.
Cheers indeed.
Juan Diego Santillana Ortiz.
Score = 0
Anyone who says they paid nothing, actually paid something since they paid the credit/debit charge. So everyone's invested at least $1. I paid 3 pounds which ended up being $7.03.
Score = 0
@johnnychicago
No, if you put in 0.00 pounds, they didn't ask for any credit card information. If you paid anything over 0.01 pounds, that's when the collected the .45 pound fee. So, no, it was actually completely free.
Score = 0
what a great band! inspiring !
check out one of the best radiohead cover i have seen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujzXRYK9vlE
Score = 0
I'm begining to wonder how much our enjoyment of the album is dependent on what we pay. Most everyone I see that paid more than 5 American Dollars seems to have enjoyed it a lot more than the majority of those who paid nothing.
I've noticed, I have experienced this in the past. Albums I purchass tend to get a lot more chances than those I download from soulseek or bittorrent.
I'm reminded of what Oscar Wilde said about sunsets, about how no body appreciates them because we have not purchassed them. (Of course I'm reminded of Chesterton's wise reply that man does pay for the sunset by not living like
Wilde. Funny man.)
Score = 0
Loving the album. The simplicity is wonderful. It makes it sound new and refreshing. I didn't need to be refreshed from Radiohead's sounds, but refreshing is how it feels.
Weird Fishes/Arpeggi, 15 Step and All I Need are tops for me so far.
Ordered the discbox. Had to, just had to.
Score = 0
Brilliant album!!! plain and simple.
Score = 0
stunning. LOVE it. paid $10 US.
Score = 0
Speechless, words only ruin the connection between the music and the feeling you have when the album begins. Best album of my life!
Score = 0
jesus christ. yes it's a good album, but if only other bands were afforded this level of intense scrutiny and grasp for meaning then you'd probably hear greatness in them too.
Score = 0
I paid nothing for it, figuring I'd give it a listen and then buy it for what I thought it was really worth. Instead, I want a refund. Yuck, what happened to this band? A few of the songs in the middle of the album were marginally okay, but the rest I could only listen to about half and then had to skip forward.
Now I know why they released it this way...they didn't want anybody to hear it on the radio before they had already purchased it.
Score = 0
Great! I can't express enough how much I appreciate when a band doesn't fall into some sort of box and continue to make the same album over and over.
Although you can listen and say that it is a Radiohead album, they continue to experiment with sound, timing, structure etc.
As for the bit rate...who cares...if people found out that one could get the album on limewire at 128 bits...and there was no actual album...how many people wouldn't download it. Besides, it sounds good enough in my I-pod so I'm not complaining.
Score = 0
For the bitrate whiners:
If Thom fucking Yorke thinks it sounds great, then why don't you just chill out and enjoy it?
Score = 0
I paid about $12 USD - worth every penny. I've listened to it about 15 times now. Yesterday the early standouts were Nude, Arpeggi, and Jigsaw Falling into Place. Today I really liked All I need, the Reckoner, and House of Cards. On the last run through Bodysnatchers finally started to grow on me but I'm still not super crazy about it.
This is a solid album. I'm not sure if I can call this innovative, but I never expected it to be. One thing I've always appreciated about Radiohead is that they consistently release good albums, which is why I had no problem giving them money without ever having heard any of the songs.
Score = 0
i paid 0.00. i'd like to pay for it but i doubt i'll ever get around to it due to being a prick.
i just want to say i absolutely adore Reckoner. i would usually go on here with a bunch of metaphors and what i see in my head as i listen to it, but i don't want to alter anyone else's images from the song. it's a very nice song.
in all i love the album. it's everything i love about radiohead, except the depressing aspects seem to be glossed with a lighter touch, i guess that's where the title comes from.
only low points are All I Need (until it builds) and Videotape. mostly because they're very one-tone compared to the multi-color of the rest.
Score = 0
I paid 0 for the download but it's bands like Radiohead who I will forever support and still purchase the cd. This album is no less amazing than the others. And for everyone complaining about the sound quality on the FREE download...STFU! Seriously your like those little spoiled kids who get whatever toy they want so they don't cherish what they do have and break everything. I would expect more of Radiohead fans. Thanks guys.
Score = 0
I had looked forward to In Rainbows very much. Now I am enjoying 15 Step and Nude.
However, since I chose to pay $11 for a 160- album, I am now looking forward to 'stealing' the 320- album later through file-sharing.
Score = 0
I have NEVER liked Radiohead. I have tried to like them, but they lost me completely with Kid A. I heard about this experiment and I paid roughly ten bucks (US) for the album. This is starnge because I am not one to pay for music. But, I really want this to work out for them. I paid for it on principal, not necessarily because I expected great music.
That all being said, I have fallen in love with the album! It moves, it's melodic and it's caused me to relisten to the past work they have produced. I always know an album is great when the more listens you take in, the better it gets.
Well done gents.
Score = 0
you all need to stop whining abou the 160 thing. The difference between 160 and 320 is almost nothing to the average listner. 320 does not make a song better. And getting 160 does not make me throw the album out and wait for a CD or 320. Its just ridiculous. You guys are hilarious...
Score = 0
OK.
On first listen (I'll admit, I was tired and cranky) I wasn't a willing participant. Even so, "15 step" and "Videotape" were outstanding.
Fully rested, I can say that only one song hasn't revealed itself to me, yet. "Faust Arp"'s acoustic chord progression feels clunky and awkward; the strings, while melodic and sinous, are not so complimentary. Thankfully, its the shortest track.
I'm quite fond of the dub elements in "Reconker" and "House of Cards". They're expansive sounding, even considering the bit-rate, and remind me of most of "I'm Not" and the third/fourth of "Good Girl/Carrots"on Pitch Person.
Score = 0
Quote from an ungrateful person;
"I payed zero nothing nada for the album. Sounds like Radiohead. But 160 kbps, that's not good enough. They are actually forcing us to buy the cd, when it comes out."
You were presented with a perfectly listenable mp3 album at the price of your choice (in your case, nothing) and yet you still feel the need to complain ?
No one is forcing you to buy anything. You have a choice whether or not to buy the CD, as you had a choice regarding the price to pay for the mp3s.
It's sentiments like this that make me despair for the human race.
You were given something, for free, and it's still not good enough.
Priceless.
Literally, priceless.
Score = 0
So here to give my three quarters of a cent... this thread has grooooowwwn since I first read it!
I haven't been able to put this album down. As a hole, it flows pretty well, the general feel to me is that, as HTTT felt like the missing link between OK Computer and Kid A, this one feels like the missing link between The Bends and OK Computer. Probably has to do with the fact that most this songs have been around for a while.
The songs feel more melodic and vocal driven than later releases. I think that as a band Radiohead is done experimenting and is ready to embrace all they've been through musically.
As for individual tracks, Nude - listening at the moment - is just beautiful, the arrangements and everything from the subtle guitar to the vocalizing works perfectly.
Videotape, I understand why people might be upset, but it still is one of my favorites. I think the problem there is that the loops are well too loopy, too homogenous in the song, when I feel they should have been more second stage to the beautiful piano and vocals.
I see the scroll is growing too much, so to sum things up: All I Need (probably my favorite). Love Faust ARP and Jigsaw... well that's as pop as Radiohead can get, and they do it with class.
Failed: Bodysnatchers, feels awkward and out of place. Probably the only song I can say that for sure won't get into my normal music rotation. Maybe Radiohead is not suited to make this rocky tracks anymore, I don't know just doesn't work for me.
Score = 0
fyi, this thread was referenced in a mtv.com news article:
http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1571737/20071011/id_0.jhtml
Score = 0
I payed 12 quid for the download.
I love the album, but I'm so disappointed with the bitrate at 160kbps. It ruins the whole sales-concept they are trying to invent, as anyone can go snatch a pirate copy of the album at flac quality for free, and it undermines the trust between seller and buyer. it's like buying a 40x60 photography and receive a thumbnail photo instead. Those who say you can't hear a difference between 160 and 128 are so way off. Even I my Creative Zen and a pair of Koss headphones I can easily hear the difference.
Score = 0
You all say fucking too much...there's got to be a better word to describe this album.
But I agree...It's the shit.
Score = 0
basically i paid for a leaked (ie low quality) copy of the cd. they didn't do anything new except cleaver marketing. i feel cheated.
Score = 0
What part of name your own price did people not understand, and how can you thus feel cheated? Bunch of fucking babies around here. It is clever marketing, but it completely realizes the terrain of the music world right now, which is why it is so brilliant.
Paid 5 GBP, definitely worth it. Nude knocked me ass backwards and the rest of the album is pretty great, not their best but a big Hell Yeah to In Rainbows.
Score = 0
My reactions changed throughout the night with more listens talking to friends
1st: Wow, Awesome album, super minimalist, sounds almost kinda like a dub record. It's really beautiful, no crazy Jonny guitar freakouts cept for on Bodysnatchers but like on Kid A and Amnesiac it doesn't really matter. I need more time to fully wrap my head around it but it seems they've done it again.
2nd Reaction: can't say for sure yet but Kid and OK are my favorites and this enters as a 3rd. It's really different actually, it's lush and pretty. It's almost like MBV's Loveless except where they created a wall of sound it's very stripped down and minimalist. It's a really beautiful album, a mix of acoustic instruments, electronic, and lots of strings, and there is even one Jonny rock the **♫ guitar hit ♫** out song that manages to fit in with the very lush vibe without ruining it. I'm really loving it more with every listen.
By now: I've listened to it 34 times and I honestly believe it's my 2nd favorite Radiohead album to Kid A and my favorite album since. It's just absolutely beautiful and genius, it's a magnificent album and just the kind we needed.
Score = 0
Currently listing to the album for the 12th time since download. I have 3 worlds. Melancholic / Beautiful / Genius.
Simply a perfectly mastered album, every track as good as the other. Stand outs for me are Nude, All I Need, House of Cards and Videotape. I purchased the Disc Box, worth every cent just for the downloaded version. Waiting with baited breath for the box set to arrive.
Score = 0
I paid 5 British pounds, which equates to a little over $11... Well worth it, would've been the same if they had offered it on iTunes... Some people will download it for free, what a third maybe, according to some sites? Oh well, I guess I bought a few copies then...
Overall I like it:)
Score = 0
Am I the only person who thought it was boring and generic?
Do you really need another guitar-bass-drums-vocals record?
'Kid A' was beautiful and daring for what is essentially a 'Pop' band.
Score = 0
The experiment is flawed, and the results will mean nothing in the end. Which is unfortunate, because I really like the idea.
If you want me to pay what I think the music is worth, do not send me to a broken web store with no way to preview the songs, and no information about the format/quality of the downloads. Do not make me register if my username/password will not work shortly after I have downloaded the album. And please provide some sort of feedback mechanism.
If this is to become a new model, these issues need to be fixed. After having listened, I would gladly give them $5 for encouragement (if they were flac files, it would be more). But unfortunately, my initial payment of $0 will mess up whatever averages they might want to extract from this experiment and negatively offset whatever I go back and re-buy the download for.
Score = 0
After 5 listens, it's officiall a "grower." 15 Step and reckoner are the standouts. It took me a couple listens to get House of Cards.
Godspeed!
Score = 0
After 5 listens, it's officialy a "grower." 15 Step and Reckoner are the standouts. It took me a couple listens to get House of Cards.
Godspeed!
Score = 0
since everyone commented so far i thought i'd do it too. haha
but yeah apparently this sold over a million copies in three days.
suck on that kanye
Score = 0
Pitchfork has given it 9.3.
Sorry, but I think that score's too high.
Score = 0
It's the best Radiohead album since Kid A.
Score = 0
Going on more than a decade of fanfare following OK Computer one still finds it hard when writing about Radiohead to NOT make the inevitable comparison to OK Computer. Some had put aside Radiohead altogether remanding them as one of the great bands but one that would not again reach the height of OK Computer. Although critics and fans alike agree that Radiohead's post-OK Computer work is brilliant, few agreed that it was better. I will admit, as a decade+ fan, I was ready for a fall. With no label and Thom and Johnny's solo albums, it seemed Radiohead just might go In Limbo. But it seems Radiohead had something else in mind. Something big. Not just for the record labels, but also for the fans.
Radiohead's newest release, In Rainbows, presents itself as a perfect marriage of the two halves of Radiohead's musical philosophy. On the one hand are the guitars, firm melodies, clear vocals and warmth of their early albums. On the other hand are the electronics, fuzzy beats and atmospheric qualities of their later work. Radiohead succeed this time with a purer evolution of the band's sound than their previous album, Hail To The Thief. In Rainbows features not only a return to the warmer guitars and keyboards that dominated The Bends and OK Computer, but manages to marry it to the best atmospheric elements of Kid A and Amnesiac. The results are phenomenal. And to this fan, as good if not better than OK Computer. That's right. Better than. Nicolas, a Radiohead fan, put it best in his post to stereogum.com: "It was almost like Thom was indulging every guilty pleasure I've ever had for a band like Radiohead."
As with OK Computer the songs really do deserve to be heard as an album, making it difficult to pick stand-out tracks. This is perhaps the reason why Radiohead have long been hold outs against sales on the single-oriented iTunes. But despite the hype surrounding their all-digital, you-determine-the-price release of In Rainbows, it is the music that is platinum even if the charts won't count it. "Jigsaw Falling Into Place" is as good as Radiohead gets, an equal to "Paranoid Android" in every way. The achingly beautiful, "Nude" (AKA: "Big Ideas" to old B-sides fans) represents the evolution of the band unlike any song previously released. Guitar, lyrics and organ had been hashed out years ago and are largely in tact. But now with added orchestration, atmospherics and tempo like those from post-OK Computer albums, the song takes on new depth and meaning. The scales at the end of the song seem to me an homage to The Beatles "A Day In The Life". John Lennon is surely smiling down from strawberry fields upon Thom and co. "Bodysnatchers" and "Weird Fishes/Arpeggi" remind us that Johnny Greenwood was once heralded as "the most exciting electric guitarist of our generation." "All I Need" and "Videotape" explore Radiohead's minimalist side with haunting glory. Bittersweet and quiet, "Faust Arp" is reminiscent of The Bends' "Bulletproof" adding poignant orchestration to an otherwise sparse treatment of vocals with an acoustic guitar.
Lifting the burden of a record label off Radiohead's back certainly seems to have had the right effect. Although critics may continue to consider OK Computer's importance to the rock music canon, In Rainbows will surely give a few pause to consider it's inclusion. At the least, it may be deemed a personal triumph for the band and its' fans.
Score = 0
The web is saturated with articles and blogs about the death of the music industry & what Madonna, Radiohead and the like in collusion with web 2.0 digital models and P2P sites are doing to the industry ... "killing it"?
But this IS the new industry ... a place where the majority of content is created and consumed for free, where the creativity embodied on your musical content IS the value attributed to it.
True creativity will become a form of money; so you may download my music for free, but that creativity still has value – value enough for me to extract a service from you or your peers in exchange. A system where money becomes less important than trade.
A place where the merit in music conquers all. Or at least in the years to come it will.
It is my absolute belief that "where music leads all else will follow" .. that is the breakdown of the commercial music industry to elements of trade, file sharing, swapping & purchase will one day encompass our whole online commercial structure.
Merit and creative truth will rule, meaningless content (read “pop”) will simply become ignored meaninglessness, and it will struggle for any traction.
The sharing and spread across digital platforms of all online services and products will occur, with value being judged by merit. This will occur whether we are talking about a music track, a new product or a simple day to day service.
Advertisers will no longer be able to saturate our TV screens with useless products and thinly veiled lies about necessity - purchase value & immediacy will be decided by the purchaser.
ok, …. deeper : the human mind is a spark of the almighty consciousness of the creator, imagination and creativity are the doors from which this consciousness emerges.
As human minds develop further and become more fully tuned to the nature of spirit, by stopping thought, abandoning knowledge & trusting intuition, creativity also becomes more fully tuned to this truth. That is, music / knowledge / content / product is freed from the shackles of blind commercialism, prejudice or banality will simply cut through and gain traction by the simple fact of its creative merit.
The deeper the self realization of a person and his/her creativity, the more he/she influences the whole universe by subtle creative vibrations.
Silence is the potent carrier of the present tense. Every sound or action comes from silence & dies back into the ocean of silence.
You choose by your actions how you may disrupt this silence – choose wisely.
Death to the music industry, long live the industry of creativity.
Score = 0
Twelve bucks. Even if it turns out to suck after I listen to it, which I sincerely doubt, I've spent so much time listening to and enjoying these guys over the years that you can't put a price on it. I'm the proud owner of each of their CDs and wouldn't dream of paying zero zip nada (as the one fool above says proudly) for music of this quality, especially since the money will go directly to the artists for the most part (unlike the CDs that I've purchased). Long live Radiohead - the rumors of the band's demise after "Hail to the Thief" were most distressing.
Score = 0
I paid $3 which is about $3 more than it's actually worth, had I cared for it at all I would have gladly bought the cd when it comes out.
Score = 0
I'm really loving this album.
I'd never (prepare to cringe) actually heard (oh god, here it comes) Radiohead before. I'm way behind on essential records still. Have a bunch of current stuff and 60s and 70s albums but it takes time... and yeah. just hadn't gotten to them yet.
I really had no expectations going in so I paid the sad amount of $0.
I will, however, buy this album when it comes out on cd. Also, I think it's time to examine their back-catalog...
Good stuff.
Score = 0
This album just gets better and better with each listen. So many little things going on in each and every song that each song feels fresh even after repeated listens. Can't wait to hear the rest!
Score = 0