For more than two decades Radiohead have reinvented new forms of their
art without losing their identity. It’s hard to put the label “alternative” on
them, since they are not an alternative to anything. They are the pioneers,
making a unique fusion of classic, latin, jazz, folk, rock; painting pictures with
every sound and breath. The strings become the drums or the guns. Or the
chanting bells, or the rain. All the songs share new energy and inspiration. Their
credibility is huge when they address to all of ordinary us reminding of the
fears and wars, but offering comfort and love the same time.
Decks Darks infinite, death-calling lyrics reminds of the fears of war.
Daydreaming could be a Buddhist chant, and the line “Just happy to serve” could
be from any Vipassanacenter. But in the context it actually throws me to Hotel
California. The white room – are we not there all of us these crazy times? Or
Identikit that is a critic of the surface we so much adore in our “pieces of
ragdoll mankind”.
But this ninth album has a shiny side and offers comfort in the chaos
and war. It takes us to the heavy existential questions, but in a grown-up and mature
way, not screaming out loud as a teenager banging doors. It is rather the spouse
that has been there all those good and bad times, and still sees you. Fights, panic
but also love, relive. Not alone. Like in Present Tense or in Desert Island
Disk. Or even in the hit warning Ful Stop.
The Creep has grown up
The Creep has grown up
All together the album has a light and intimate touch. I feel hope and beloved,
and accepted as I am.
