Radiohead’s side project shines through
Radiohead’s Thom Yorke has been an iconic musical figure for decades. Besides his work in one of the most well-known alternative rock bands in history, Yorke has had a flourishing solo career since his debut record The Eraser in 2006. In 2009 Yorke formed the band Atoms for Peace, which included several musicians from other famous bands, as well as Nigel Godrich—Radiohead’s producer. The Smile is Yorke’s newest group, which includes Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood and Sons of Kemet’s drummer Tom Skinner. Their debut album, produced by Godrich, emulates the best of Radiohead’s work.
The first two tracks in the album are cheekily titled “The Same” and “The Opposite.” Both feature the classic Radiohead composition of intense synths, eerie vocal manipulation and ambiguous lyricism. Yorke’s vocal performance is dripping with an intense feeling of yearning. His sharp and melodic “Please, we all want the same / Please, we are all the same,” makes you feel his desperation. The beat tightens into a groove with the second track on the record. A distinct melody takes shape through the song as Yorke sings “Opposites attract.”
“You Will Never Work In Television Again” has the angst and energy of The Bends, with the lyricism of OK Computer. Guitar, drums and other miscellaneous instruments are in full effect as Yorke strains “All those beautiful young hopes and dreams / Devoured by those evil eyes and those piggy limbs.” This spirit is quickly diminished with the next track, “Pana-vision” which is highlighted by Yorke’s ghostly falsetto and the unsettling piano arpeggios.
“Free In The Knowledge” is a poignant and introspective track, recognizing the finiteness of existence and making peace with change. The band can’t help but make the listener ache as Yorke wistfully sings “I talk to the face in the mirror / Now he can’t get through / Turns out we’re in this together.”
The final track, “Skrting On the Surface” ends on a rather depressing note. Over somber woodwinds and hushed guitar, Yorke sings “When we realize that we are broke and nothing mends / We can drop under the surface.” These haunting words fade into the lush instrumentation that swells, accompanied by Yorke’s melismatic falsetto.
A Light for Attracting Attention is a brilliant album, one which shows the artistic genius of Yorke and Greenwood. After a nearly thirty-year-long career, it is remarkable that these musicians can maintain a keen sense of ingenuity. The Smile’s debut album is a cohesive and impressive project that radiates confidence and creativity.
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