O(utstanding) K(arma) Computer Aug 15, 2008
Radiohead came on the scene behind the power of Thom Yorke's voice and lyrics and Jonny Greenwood's guitar mastery, and then in the early part of this decade delved fully into electronic compositions. OK Computer is the apex of their electronic soundscapes mixed with the six-string virtuosity that earned them popularity. Yorke's vocals careen from muted palour to growling angst to soaring falsetto. "Paranoid Android" is a schizophrenic piece that stands as OK Computer-in-a-thimble, musically visiting all the themes that appear elsewhere on the record. "Karma Police" was closest thing to a hit single, but then, a popular album is not what Radiohead had in mind. They did earn critical acclaim and the record's influence is heard in alt rock today. Particular stand outs are "No Excuses" "Lucky" and "Let Down."