The Bends (1995)
I never thought they’d do it, but they did. They actually came back with an album that wasn’t horrid after the one-shot “Creep”. Soft, melodic, and pretty at its high points, this album may take a while to kick in, but it’s not bad if you give it half a chance. Don’t get excited or anything, but maybe crack a LITTLE smile.
Grade: C+
OK Computer (1997)
First half is worthy of an A. Second half has to scratch and claw to achieve mediocrity. It’s supposedly a breakthrough, hands-down classic according to some. It’s a good album, and it’s worth buying. But it’s not going to change your life or change music as a whole.
(“Karma Police”)
Grade: B
Kid A (2000)
Very atmospheric. But the atmosphere is rarely backed up by good music.
Grade: C-
2010: Kid Average.
Grade: C
Amnesiac (2001)
Them boys do enjoy indulging themselves, don’t they?
Grade: D-
Hail To The Thief (2003)
“Sail To The Moon” is a beautiful song that represents their peak in that area. “Myxomatosis” is some good solid noise-plus-vocals music, perfect for when you just want to listen and not have to think. A couple other songs are pretty good. There is no big deal with this band. It’s fair quality (art?) rock, nothing more. A few good songs don’t make a great album, let alone a great career.
(“Myxomatosis”, “Sail To The Moon”)
Grade: B-