By Erin White
Millions of fans were greeted on the morning of Feb. 18 to an event that came one day early: Radiohead’s newest album, “The King of Limbs.” Their first since 2007, Radiohead has once again managed to draw massive media attention. Though the small number of tracks was disappointing at a measly eight, the band does not fail to deliver a solid album.
“The King of Limbs” begins on a basic piano loop foundation that gradually grows into layers of bleeps, simple drumbeats and otherworldly tones. Yorke announces himself after the melody settles. By the second song, Yorke has transformed his voice into a seductive, smooth croon that eases us through the album. But their instrumentation is less electronic and almost funky. While listening, one might question what instrument Johnny Greenwood is riding and would then be surprised to realize that it is the voice of Yorke, transforming right before us.
Many of the songs possess a delicate, optimistic quality. In the song “Codex,” Yorke promises that, “No one will get hurt.” This wave of optimism is a stark contrast from messages of inadequacy promoted on their last album. The song “Nude” from “In Rainbows” suggests that the listener, “[Not] get any big ideas/ They’re not gonna happen.” This change fits their contemporary sound perfectly. “The King of Limbs” plays out in a subdued controlled fashion. An earthy quality surrounds the tracks and presents itself in lyrics that evoke nature. “The water is clear and innocent,” Yorke continues in “Codex.”
This album wasn’t particularly shocking or revolutionary. Is it progressive? No. It’s more like a continuation of what they started with “In Rainbows.” By no means is that a bad thing. “The King of Limbs” seems to be its predecessor’s Chai tea-drinking, slightly effeminate older brother. Though more mature, the album is not a complete evolution. The tracks are consistently strong and virtually seamless. Typical for a Radiohead album, it cannot be listened to and fully appreciated hastily, but considered and absorbed in full, over time. And even then, it will continue to grow.