Two
years back, Radiohead's Thom Yorke released his solo
album “Tomorrow's Modern Boxes” and it was quickly
forgotten, leading some to think the Band's tank was empty. Not to
fear, Thom, and friends are back with an outstanding new album of
albeit not all new material.
Rest
assured that the Radiohead of today are still as depressing as they
were from any other period of their lengthy career. Thom Yorke's
lyrics cover Radiohead's all too familiar, and expected, depressing
stomping ground, cloaked in a newer musical direction. New territory
gets explored here.
This
odd assortment of new and old songs could be considered rekindled
burnt offerings, as half of these songs are not new at all, only
reworked, rearranged, and re-recorded. When in fact, some of the
songs are not new they are presented as new because they have been
improved to the point of meeting Radiohead's satisfaction. Fans will
agree. The songs in question are all better and with the new tracks
all of these work well together and make this their 9th album more than
worthwhile.
This
almost super-group of the 1990's, the very, very, very over-hyped
heralded prophets of acceptable eccentricity always at the
forefront of the underground's vanguard on the outskirt's of the mainstream have maintained its reputation for musical innovation. The
obvious sophistication of Radiohead's sound on this album indicates their progression, maturing and this is heavily influenced by Jonny
Greenwood's classical music experience. Greenwood's recent film score
credits include:“There Will be Blood”, “The Master”, and
“Inherent Vice.” His classical music influence dominates “A
Moon Shaped Pool.” This album is full of little nuances and little
quirks and surprises that will keep fans talking for a long time to
come. What is most noticeable is that the all of the guitar work is
subtle and subdued, making way for the smooth production work that
polishes up this almost masterpiece.
Overall,
the arrangement, production, musicianship are top-notch. I still
don't care for Thom Yorke's lyrics, but they're what makes Radiohead
who they are. The new A Moon Shaped Pool is outstanding and will
be highly regarded by fans of old. As for new fans about to discover
Radiohead, they may wonder what's all the fuss?
Rate
this 4 Stars
The
best tracks are “Burn The Witch” - "Identikit" - "The
Numbers" - "True Love Waits" "Ful Stop"
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