Issue date: 9/2/08 Section: Features

Likely the most innovative and well-known band of our generation, Radiohead, hardly disappointed their fans with the release of their latest album.

"In Rainbows" is a very strong collection of personal songs, beginning with a fast, engaging tempo and ending with a slow, bittersweet melody. It contains a variety of sounds, instruments and emotions, each track absorbing the listener with its ever-unique quality.

As the band has been notorious for their alternative style and computer-generated effects, "In Rainbows" is a brilliant blend of the electronic influences in "Kid A" with hard-rocking early guitar work of "The Bends."

With each new album, Radiohead seems to take their creativity to a new level, and "In Rainbows" is no exception. The first song, "15 Step" begins with a compelling beat, followed by Thom Yorke's always-creative lyrics. Although Yorke wanted the album to begin with the last song, "Videotape," it sounds more appropriate in its final order.

While the first two songs are rather fast -paced with tones and lyrics indicating frustration, a few slower songs with more moody lyrics and passionate singing follow, such as the acoustic ballad "Faust Arp."

"All I Need" is a track containing very interesting sounds and lyrics as well. After it starts with a few ominously synthesized piano notes, Yorke sings, "I'm an animal trapped in your hot car." As the chimes begin, he sings, "I am a moth, who just wants to share your light."

"Jigsaw Falling Into Place" begins with a portentous guitar melody, followed by ominous humming. This up-tempo track is one of the highlights of the album. "In Rainbows" ends with Yorke playing a melancholic, but pretty tune on piano.

The album contains a variety of different styles, but their music is unlike any that has ever been heard before. They are able to create music that is gentle and touching, while still falling under the genre of alternative rock. Since the band incorporates so many different influences into their sound, they are able to attract a very broad and diverse audience.

Radiohead is also known for their phenomenal live performances, especially as their popularity has grown in recent years. Almost as impressive as their music, they organize spectacular light shows using unbelievable technology.

On Aug. 1, they played for a sold out crowd of 80,000 at Lollapalooza in Grant Park, Chicago. Despite their highly acclaimed live performances, the band tries to keep their traveling to a minimum, as they are avid environmentalists and encourage their fans to utilize public transportation.

"In Rainbows" can currently be found in stores after its initial release from their website on Oct. 10, 2007, which allowed purchasers to choose any amount they wished to pay for it. The decision to release the album digitally came after their contract with EMI records ended. This is their seventh studio-recorded album, and it is not likely to be their last.

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