A Moon Shaped Pool
by Radiohead
  • Record Label: XL
  • Release Date: May 8, 2016
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 1525 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,393 out of 1525
  2. Mixed: 41 out of 1525
  3. Negative: 91 out of 1525
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  1. andreydelorenzo
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Best album since OK Computer. (Review in portuguese)

    Radiohead se reinventa a cada álbum. Isso é fato. Desde Pablo Honey, seus álbuns posteriores costumam sempre ser uma espécie de borboleta libertada do casulo do álbum anterior. Se com "The Bends" tivemos a evolução da guitarra nervosa de Jonny Greenwood em relação ao seu álbum de estreia, em "OK Computer" tivemos a quintessência do    Best album since OK Computer. (Review in portuguese)

    Radiohead se reinventa a cada álbum. Isso é fato. Desde Pablo Honey, seus álbuns posteriores costumam sempre ser uma espécie de borboleta libertada do casulo do álbum anterior. Se com "The Bends" tivemos a evolução da guitarra nervosa de Jonny Greenwood em relação ao seu álbum de estreia, em "OK Computer" tivemos a quintessência do grupo, um álbum tão impactante para os anos 90, como Dark Side of the Moon foi nos anos 70. Porém, ao término da "trinca" inicial de álbuns, em que o falsete de Thom Yorke se aventurava dentre as guitarras poderosas do grupo e por um belo casamento da "cozinha" da banda (baixo e bateria), temos a releitura mais radical do grupo com "Kid A", álbum que foi um divisor de águas no cenário musical, algo que se seguiu até "In Rainbows". Claro, tivemos flertes com o antigo e bom rock "sujo" presente no Radiohead dos anos 90. Porém, nunca tão efervescente como nesse registro aqui. Se em "The King of Limbs" tivemos uma predominância quase que total de elementos eletrônicos experimentais, (algo que enjoava em certas partes), aqui em "A Moon Shaped Pool" temos uma bela mescla de todos os gêneros que já se tiveram presentes ao longo da jornada da banda. É provavelmente o álbum mais eficiente em sua proposta, mais ainda que "Hail to the Thief". E o mais consistente desde OK Computer. Pra muitos vai ser o "bom e velho" Radiohead flertando com o "Radiohead do século 21", mas não existe "Radiohead daqui" ou "Radiohead dali", essa é a mesma banda que iniciou sua jornada em 1993, e que a cada novo registro se reinventa de forma satisfatória, e que hoje revela seu disco mais revolucionário desde OK Computer, e que provavelmente se tornará um marco para a música.
    Continue assim Radiohead, sendo um dos últimos fornecedores de frescor musical, em meio a esse circo de horrores que se tornou a indústria.    … Expand
  2. answers2no1
    Jun 24, 2016
    4
    I'm a massive radiohead fan, and I always have been. I gotta be honest, though: this album does nothing for me... and it's not because I lack the sophistication to appreciate the ambiance, layering, subtlety, and textural aspects. Those elements are there, and I dig it…but there is precious little else to applaud. It's a wandering piece, with no statement, emphasis, drama, or any of theI'm a massive radiohead fan, and I always have been. I gotta be honest, though: this album does nothing for me... and it's not because I lack the sophistication to appreciate the ambiance, layering, subtlety, and textural aspects. Those elements are there, and I dig it…but there is precious little else to applaud. It's a wandering piece, with no statement, emphasis, drama, or any of the brilliance that made us fall in love with Radiohead years ago. The band has given us lots of indirect music, and other wandering albums before, but this one lacks passion. It sounds like previously discarded tracks were re-worked out of pity.,,and then a huge knob twisting studio session gave them just enough of an artsy feel so the non-critical fans would eat it up. It comes off too formulaic, but it seems to have worked. I guess if I'm convinced, or desperate enough, I could fall in love with a railroad tie- and I think that's what some (not all) of the fans are doing. They're gonna pile on and praise anything the band does as high art- even a trip to the loo. Look at the Atoms for Peace tour. Yorke was having a blast, and the music was great. Where did all that energy go? I was expecting something more. Those who are loving this one would be better served listening to their neighbor's TV with the tone backed off. Subtlety and mood music is ubiquitous. This sounds like the Johnny Greenwood exit music band.… Expand
  3. AnalyDewa
    Jan 5, 2017
    10
    A Moon Shaped Pool é um disco rico em detalhes intencionalmente colocados, possui composições com significados além dos imagináveis. O que antecedeu o lançamento do álbum, foi um sumiço da banda da internet, onde em um marketing muito inteligente, eles se apagaram da internet e logo depois mandaram por e-mail uma carta aos fãs. O tema do disco também se remete a isso, sobre estar emA Moon Shaped Pool é um disco rico em detalhes intencionalmente colocados, possui composições com significados além dos imagináveis. O que antecedeu o lançamento do álbum, foi um sumiço da banda da internet, onde em um marketing muito inteligente, eles se apagaram da internet e logo depois mandaram por e-mail uma carta aos fãs. O tema do disco também se remete a isso, sobre estar em lugares e sobre o sumiço digital de forma a se associar com os estados de exceção. O disco foi apresentado pelo carro chefe "Burn the Witch" que fala sobre perseguir todos aqueles não estão dentro da norma padrão. As faixas aqui, em maioria, já eram conhecidas dos fãs e já tinham sido apresentadas ao vivo em ocasiões passadas, mas o resgate vai além, com a banda voltando a sua sonoridade orgânica que os consagrou quase 2 décadas antes e deixando as experimentações eletrônicas do último trabalho de lado. O álbum ainda nos surpreende com canções orquestradas, desacelerações e inversões vocais. Mais que um resgate, a banda aqui tem a oportunidade de reviver o passado na sua memória (mais uma vez dentro do conceito do álbum), juntando peças que ficaram para trás e de se atualizar de forma inteligente. Sem dúvidas, um dos melhores trabalhos de 2016.… Expand
  4. Carburateur77
    Jul 2, 2019
    9
    All the songs seem infused with both hyper sensibility and grounded bass lines. Hope and distress. Even if it gets high in ethereal propositions, it never fails to stay connected emotionally. Can't get enough, it's addictive.
  5. tino_bandito
    Jan 23, 2017
    10
    This is an absolute ingenious masterpiece of an album made by none-other than one of the best to ever sing his crazy falsetto into a microphone and mess with a synthesizer. This should be Album of the Year, but it probably won't.
  6. greekmatthew
    Apr 11, 2017
    10
    Immaculately produced and somberly performed, this album will go down as an all-time classic in the discography of Radiohead. From the sharp orchestal strings in 'Burn the Witch' to the psychedelic and tender feelings of 'Daydreaming' and then to Thom Yorke's piercing words in 'True Love Waits', a Moon Shaped Pool never falls short.
  7. EdenIsNotHere
    Feb 2, 2018
    10
    In 2018, this album crushes and destroys my soul every time I listen to it. Every song here it's naturally textured and detailed, unilaterally keeping this easy-listening and calm vibe to the record. Elegant, beautifully written and stripped-down but harmonius, Radiohead continues demostrating that are one of the most creative, mysterious and haunting bands of the history. All of the songIn 2018, this album crushes and destroys my soul every time I listen to it. Every song here it's naturally textured and detailed, unilaterally keeping this easy-listening and calm vibe to the record. Elegant, beautifully written and stripped-down but harmonius, Radiohead continues demostrating that are one of the most creative, mysterious and haunting bands of the history. All of the song here are simply just perfect, one of the best albums of this decade, period.

    FAV TRACKS: ALL OF THEM.

    WORST TRACKS: HAHA YOU THOUGHT    … Expand
  8. RPF
    Dec 17, 2020
    9
    This album, like nearly all Radiohead albums, is an incredible creation. It creates a very sonic/filmic landscape with the sounds and melodies. The songs have this calming and mesmerising quality. Personal favourites include ‘ Burn the Witch’, ‘Decks dark’ and ‘Present Tense’. I really enjoy how Radiohead have once again found a different sound to master. Great work.
  9. diegokobe
    May 9, 2016
    10
    A Moon Shaped Pool is a celebration of subtlety. In it, Radiohead have not only mastered songgwriting, production and arrengement, they have reached maturity. It is the sound of a band that constantly reinvent themselves, but this time they take a strong step towards beauty. A haunting beauty which shows itself through the calm responses of broad strokes in a clean canvas. An inspirationalA Moon Shaped Pool is a celebration of subtlety. In it, Radiohead have not only mastered songgwriting, production and arrengement, they have reached maturity. It is the sound of a band that constantly reinvent themselves, but this time they take a strong step towards beauty. A haunting beauty which shows itself through the calm responses of broad strokes in a clean canvas. An inspirational journey that breathes emotion and suspense and reaches that through unseen resources. This band knows what they are doing, they have understood the complexity of "less is more" and used it together to craft something wonderful. This is no Yorke or Greenwood album, it is a collectively done masterpiece that will live through the ages.… Expand
  10. FrostAtronach
    May 8, 2016
    10
    This album is awesome. I read something saying that this is the Kid A of the 2010s, and I agree completely. It evokes the same feeling and is hauntingly beautiful, kind of making me feel like I'm on a space journey. There is one flaw however, I'm not completely in love with Desert Island Disk, but it doesn't keep this from getting a 10 in my books.
  11. HurDurImADragon
    May 8, 2016
    10
    The tone this album took was quite unexpected. After the stressed out, urgent strings of Burn The Witch, I expected a album that was much more in your face than what we got. The Radiohead of A Moon Shaped Pool take a more subdued tone. It didn't matter. Like all other Radiohead albums, the rest of the after the album after the aforementioned opener carved out its own sonic space.The tone this album took was quite unexpected. After the stressed out, urgent strings of Burn The Witch, I expected a album that was much more in your face than what we got. The Radiohead of A Moon Shaped Pool take a more subdued tone. It didn't matter. Like all other Radiohead albums, the rest of the after the album after the aforementioned opener carved out its own sonic space. Radiohead take the weightless, somewhat minimalist Daydreaming and run with it throughout a really, really good album. It might just fall short of In Rainbows, at least after the first 4 or 5 listens, but it's a big deal that this Radiohead album has topped it's predecessor in A King of Limbs.… Expand
  12. cwongx
    May 9, 2016
    10
    It's so beautifully subtle. I love the pizzicatos at the beginning giving that strange sense of foreboding. The chord progressions and the ambience are so uniquely Radiohead's, yet it is obvious they've got a new sound. It's an elegantly-composed album, so full of small details that add greatly to the entire listening experience. Thom's voice sounds just like it was 15 years ago. It's goodIt's so beautifully subtle. I love the pizzicatos at the beginning giving that strange sense of foreboding. The chord progressions and the ambience are so uniquely Radiohead's, yet it is obvious they've got a new sound. It's an elegantly-composed album, so full of small details that add greatly to the entire listening experience. Thom's voice sounds just like it was 15 years ago. It's good to have you back, Radiohead.… Expand
  13. madnessssss
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Wow. I thought I was finally over Radiohead. I wasn't a big fan of King of Limbs, and hadn't been paying attention to what they were working on. I wasn't expecting a new album.

    This is one of their best albums, period. Present Tense is already one of my favorite Radiohead songs. Ful Stop is incredible. Theres really a ton of top notch Radiohead songs here. Great melodies, beautiful,    Wow. I thought I was finally over Radiohead. I wasn't a big fan of King of Limbs, and hadn't been paying attention to what they were working on. I wasn't expecting a new album.

    This is one of their best albums, period. Present Tense is already one of my favorite Radiohead songs. Ful Stop is incredible. Theres really a ton of top notch Radiohead songs here. Great melodies, beautiful, dense, imaginative and unique layers/arrangements. Its just a beautiful album.

    You either love Radiohead or hate them. Ive never understood the latter group. I'd like to think this album could win some of then over, but the reality is Radiohead just doesn't "click" with a lot of people. I've never understood why.

    But if you've ever been a Radiohead fan, I have no doubt youll find a lot to love here.

    Cant wait to see em at ACL.    … Expand
  14. Rijwan
    May 10, 2016
    10
    This album keeps getting better every time you listen. The less use of experimentation is clear but that doesn't count as 'lack of experimentation' .One the most down to earth and melodic Radiohead album.And the strings by LCO led by Johnny is Divine.From the energetic start with 'Burn the witch' followed by hauntingly beautiful 'Daydreaming' and the magnificent 'Full stop' with the bestThis album keeps getting better every time you listen. The less use of experimentation is clear but that doesn't count as 'lack of experimentation' .One the most down to earth and melodic Radiohead album.And the strings by LCO led by Johnny is Divine.From the energetic start with 'Burn the witch' followed by hauntingly beautiful 'Daydreaming' and the magnificent 'Full stop' with the best ever version of 'Identikit' and an ending by the love song we all heard before but still sounds new 'True love waits'...'.A Moon Shaped Pool' is definitely one of the Radiohead's best album… Expand
  15. Spillyd
    May 12, 2016
    10
    Masterpiece! It's absolutely insane that a band that has been around so long and reinvented themselves so many times could do it again. They have proven they are not only the most important band of our generation but of any generation. The Beatles, Zeppelin were productive for what 10 years each at best? And each album they produce just adds to their mastery, never redundant orMasterpiece! It's absolutely insane that a band that has been around so long and reinvented themselves so many times could do it again. They have proven they are not only the most important band of our generation but of any generation. The Beatles, Zeppelin were productive for what 10 years each at best? And each album they produce just adds to their mastery, never redundant or uninspired. This album draws on every preceding album and then adds beautiful strings and arrangements along with choirs. This is not an album of songs to be listened to separately. Although the videos for the first two songs are interesting on their own it's when you listen to the entire album as a single work of art that it melts the brain. Please do yourself the service of getting decent headphones to listen to this one. If ever there was an album that deserved to be listened to with headphones and in private this is it. Not just because of how insanely detailed it is but because it feels so personal. Pablo Honey came out when I was a senior in HS and every album since has felt like it fit perfectly for where I was in my life. Now at 40 the accumulated heartbreak, the underlying sense of dread and hopelessness feels so familiar. But you also learn that to keep from cracking up you need to find the beauty and value in these things, you need to embrace that darkness some times. This album should make you cry for both reasons and that's beautiful.… Expand
  16. turtleseyes
    May 9, 2016
    10
    This is Radiohead at their peak, again. Pursuing it since Kid A, they finally found the perfect balance between their sonic digital tapestry and the analog sound from their early years. Johnny's chord arrangements are simply amazing, groundbreaking work. So glad to hear a great Radiohead album yet again. This one is superb since first audition. I mean, you do not need to try to understandThis is Radiohead at their peak, again. Pursuing it since Kid A, they finally found the perfect balance between their sonic digital tapestry and the analog sound from their early years. Johnny's chord arrangements are simply amazing, groundbreaking work. So glad to hear a great Radiohead album yet again. This one is superb since first audition. I mean, you do not need to try to understand it to enjoy it. 10/10… Expand
  17. ungoodthinker
    May 8, 2016
    10
    At first listen, I am sure this is among their finest work. And Radiohead only gets better as you listen more. It was worth the wait.

    All songs are great, but I especially love Burn the Witch, Daydreaming, Identikit, The Numbers, and Present Tense. With the marvelous chorus in the background, Present Tense has become an amazingly beautiful.

    This is Radiohead at their best.
  18. claytongg
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Absolute masterpiece. From start to finish Radiohead deliver an absolutely splendid 11 track lineup featuring past and familiar sounds. Featuring tracks like "Identikit" and "True Love Waits" that have been in the making for years are an absolute joy for Radiohead fans to see on this album.
  19. Identity1051
    May 13, 2016
    10
    This is a perfect album which flows like a dream with every song deserving it's place. As with Radiohead's other masterpieces, they set clear boundaries around sound and texture and then let the songs and creativity flourish within those boundaries. The sound here is breathtaking; using electronics sparsely and more relying on melody, subtlety in song writing and a magnificent orchestralThis is a perfect album which flows like a dream with every song deserving it's place. As with Radiohead's other masterpieces, they set clear boundaries around sound and texture and then let the songs and creativity flourish within those boundaries. The sound here is breathtaking; using electronics sparsely and more relying on melody, subtlety in song writing and a magnificent orchestral score to back the whole thing and sweep through a world of emotional range.

    Lyrically each song hits deeply and personally - Whether its the impending doom and darkness of Decks Dark, the loss of love in Glass Eyes, Daydreaming, Present Tense, True love Waits or the call to arms for environmentalists in desert island disk and the numbers the album moves you and in a way that is always interesting and perhaps challenging for some who are first listening to radiohead. Identikit masters the subtlety of Thom Yorke's songwriting with "Broken Hearts Make it Rain" being exploited to the maximum as both a catchy hook and an almost self mocking take on the rest of the album. And to finish with a song over 20 years in the making delivered in such an understated way shows the genius of this band,

    Musically Jonny Greenwood's compositions move each song to maximise its full meaning, providing moments of darkness, drama, shading, colour and light at the right moments: from the chomping intro of burn the witch, through to the sweeping outro of daydreaming, the choir in Decks Dark, and so on until roaring into the second verse of The Numbers, being played to perfection in Present Tense and going for a Bondesque finale in Tinker Tailor. But the subtle swirling piano in Glass Eyes and True Love Waits stands out for me in this album of absolute defeat in the face of heartache.

    I would love to write forever about it and my thoughts long exceed this impromptu review, but I had to give this the 10/10 it richly deserves.

    Masterpiece.    … Expand
  20. Zatharel
    May 8, 2016
    10
    It feels so stripped down compared to TKOL and it feels so...different and that's what is so amazing about it. Easily one of their best albums so far.
  21. RickTC
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Simply spectacular! Reserve ALL the Grammy's for Radiohead this year, folks, as "A Moon Shaped Pool" is a tour de force. Among the band's best work and will soon be listed among the greatest rock albums of all time. Wow!
  22. BeeboBaggins
    May 8, 2016
    10
    I don't want to jump to any conclusions first listen... that said, this is the first Radiohead release I've been apart of, and I've been blindsided. It's better than OK Computer, Hail to the Thief and In Rainbows. Only album I might like more than it is Kid A, and that's some high praise.

    Burn the Witch - The moment I listened to this I felt opening track vibes. It's like an    I don't want to jump to any conclusions first listen... that said, this is the first Radiohead release I've been apart of, and I've been blindsided. It's better than OK Computer, Hail to the Thief and In Rainbows. Only album I might like more than it is Kid A, and that's some high praise.

    Burn the Witch - The moment I listened to this I felt opening track vibes. It's like an orchestrated 2 + 2 = 5. It's gonna get you hyped for sure.

    Daydreaming - When I first heard this track, I thought it was one of the best things they've ever done. The way the synths and orchestration mix is beauty.

    Decks Dark - So when this song comes along and is just as good, if not better? Yeah, I was blown away. The build-up of this track, along with the choir and vocals is amazing. It feels like a perfected Drunken Punch Up. Just an unbelievable track.

    Desert Island Disk - My favorite of the two Thom played live with the acoustic. I'm happy that they didn't take out the acoustic and replace it with something else. Instead the rest of the track builds a soundscape around it that elevates it to a whole other level. Then the drums kick in and, yes Thom, I know what you mean.

    Ful Stop - Radiohead turns it up here. The opening part of the song where the instruments and synths slowly tune in gets me so hyped it's unbelievable. Another soundscape is made by this song, but here it feels like I'm running as fast as I can. Why? Who knows. Yorke's lyrics kick in and the whole piece comes together. Then the instruments take center stage, and it gives me a Jigsaws sense of euphoria. I could spend hours describing this track. Unbelievable.

    Glass Eyes - Feels like a Faust Arp, since it's the only track under 3 minutes and divides two epics (Ful Stop and Identikit.) That said, I love Faust Arp and that same love is found here with Glass Eyes. The piano starts it off with the instruments coming in with his lyrics makes me feel as if I'm looking into his head. It's worth saying, this track would be impossible without Jonny Greenwood. Thanks our lucky stars for his orchestration.

    Identikit - One if the most anticipated tracks of the album makes an appearance. I spent years avoiding this one just because I wanted to hear the studio release first. This track, more than the rest, is built off rhythm. That said, it is still an excellent methodical piece. When the song makes that sudden change around 2 minutes in, it explodes in the best way possible. Once it comes back to Earth, you just have to appreciate what they've done with it. One of the best tracks on the album to this point.

    The Numbers - Silent Spring, I didn't like as much. So maybe Yorke somehow read my mind and changed it from Silent Spring to The Numbers. The acoustic guitar is still there, but hearing it along with the Climbing Up the Walls esque orchestration and chorus changes it from a good acoustic track into one of the greatest tracks this band has ever put out. An epic that blows the rest out of the water.

    Present Tense - This is a track I struggled to describe. I love the opening bit, reminiscent of Nude. A lot of build up on this one. The choir is great here, and the instruments back them up so perfectly. Jonny Greenwood does an amazing job with this track. He and Yorke drive this track as a prelude to...

    Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor Rich Man Poor Man Beggar Man Thief - What a mouth full. Broken up synths remind me a bit of The Gloaming. Yorke's vocals seem to fly through the song. The instruments give an Amnesiac vibe. You and Whose Army? more so than others. The orchestration is once again done perfectly. Radiohead always does an amazing job with the penultimate track and this one is no exception.

    True Love Waits - We've waited, alright. I'd only heard this track a couple times so I wouldn't dilute it if I heard it on an album. What we get is a Videotape esque edition. I like his vocals so much more here. He sing it like a dream. The piano is just melancholic enough for this song, which has gone from a nice love song into one of the saddest songs this band has ever released. The orchestration is still there, but mostly steps aside to give Thom his song filled with a beauty and emptiness that I haven't felt since Kid A. One of the only songs to ever make me cry and an amazing closer to the album.

    Overall - Radiohead is playing like a band in their prime 31 years in. Through this time they've gone from the rock ballad of OK Computer and has released its equivalent here. I don't see them ending here, Thom and Jonny are working together more than ever. If they do, however, then this is a perfect album to leave us with.

    Initial Impression - 10/10. This album takes me on an unbelievable journey from its hard pressed opener to its desolate conclusion. Radiohead faithful will love this album to death.    … Expand
  23. RadioHead_
    May 9, 2016
    10
    This album is absolutely incredible on the very first listen. Having now gone through it a half dozen times, I don't know which adjective to use now. The sheer emotion is sometimes hard to handle. The dreamscapes build and take you on a trippy journey. The use of synths and strings are remarkable. To think that this group is the same that produced Creep is really hard to comprehend....andThis album is absolutely incredible on the very first listen. Having now gone through it a half dozen times, I don't know which adjective to use now. The sheer emotion is sometimes hard to handle. The dreamscapes build and take you on a trippy journey. The use of synths and strings are remarkable. To think that this group is the same that produced Creep is really hard to comprehend....and I was blown away the first time I heard that track. This album will slowly creep into the listener's psyche with each listen. Some of the critic's scores will need to be re-considered I believe...a rare collection of songs that take on new meaning. It's an album for the headphones with your eyes closed. If you are able to shut off your logical brain, and forget the chaos and stress of your day, and actually just listen....you will surely be transported. The best album I have heard in a long, long time. Just an incredible band who dare to go to new places. Incredible !!… Expand
  24. Prosmooth
    May 8, 2016
    10
    It's easily their best album since Amnesiac--and dare I go ahead and say it? Yeah--it might be their finest record to date. This is the first Radiohead album since OK Computer that actually exceeded my expectations. It's a game changer--hopefully the game's not over. True Love Waits being the last song on the album--makes me wonder if this is the end.
  25. therebelcloud
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Still the most creative band in music today, unbelievable album.

    Such a warm feeling from these songs, Yorke's voice is better than ever, while doing less......just enough even
  26. acjshapiro
    May 8, 2016
    10
    First impression is that this is their finest work since Kid A. Jonny's work with PTA shines through in incredibly tasteful, disturbing, and melodic orchestral flourishes. Each member is truly operating at peak powers on this album.
  27. CMongler
    May 10, 2016
    10
    A Moon Shaped Pool is phenomenal. It’s incredibly dark, harrowing, emotional, and at times, hard to listen to because of it. But it’s a classic Radiohead album through and through, so distinctly unique in sound and timbre as listeners have come to expect from a new Radiohead album, yet still familiar, and fitting, for the band that created favorites such as Kid A, OK Computer, or In Rainbows.
  28. riaan_radiohead
    May 18, 2016
    10
    A Moon Shaped Pool really sounds like the future of music and as usual Radiohead have completely obliterated the competition. Nu-minimalism, neo classical, Neil Young psych-folk meets the film scores of Thomas Newman, Bernard Herrmann and Penderecki....oh its just Radiohead changing music and art forever.
  29. personpitch85
    May 12, 2016
    10
    Great album! Radiohead know how to really push out their vision through their albums. From start to finish one of the cohesive albums. Very somber feel but amazing.
  30. frienderman
    May 8, 2016
    10
    It's been five years since their release of The King of Limbs, yet Radiohead continues to delve into darkly uncharted territory, and beautifully crafts a masterpiece of apocalyptic proportions.
  31. MrTibster
    May 8, 2016
    10
    A stunning album, 5 years after The King of Limbs and honestly worth the wait. A dreamy, highly unusual album in the best way possible, and the song 'True Love Waits' was truly the icing on the cake.
    Album is up there with OK Computer and In Rainbows.
  32. juancvl96
    May 8, 2016
    10
    The best album Radiohead has made since KID A. The best tracks are Ful Stop which has a little appearance as Everything in Its Right Place , Identikit and Burn the Witch. Just simply amazing.
  33. fmossa
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Atmospheric, inspired, heterogeneous, dense of sounds. Incredible after 9 albums in an already remarkable career. A somewhat strange mix of Kid A and In Rainbows, but still looking ahead.
  34. Achoo
    May 8, 2016
    10
    I think this is the album most Radiohead fans would have wanted. The band seem totally content with where they are going on this album, and it is a confident, assured, accepting chapter in their history to boot. Hopefully not the final act in the epic journey that the most interesting band in the world have taken over the last 25 or so years, but one that would be fitting if it is.
    They    I think this is the album most Radiohead fans would have wanted. The band seem totally content with where they are going on this album, and it is a confident, assured, accepting chapter in their history to boot. Hopefully not the final act in the epic journey that the most interesting band in the world have taken over the last 25 or so years, but one that would be fitting if it is.
    They have come almost full circle with this album, incorporating many of the things they have mastered over the years and using them reassuredly    … Expand
  35. alexferguson86
    May 8, 2016
    9
    Brilliant album. Identikit and Decks Dark instantly became two of my new favourite Radiohead songs, but honestly the entire album is virtually faultless.
  36. Radiohead2000
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Absolutely amazed by this album, one of Radiohead's best, definitely in my top 5, the songs are beautiful and they put some of my favorite unreleased radiohead songs on it, like "True Love Waits", "Identikit", and "The Present Tense". The production is stellar, shoutout to Johnny Greenwood for that amazing orchestration, Thom's vocals are awesome as as aways, and the album is just perfect.Absolutely amazed by this album, one of Radiohead's best, definitely in my top 5, the songs are beautiful and they put some of my favorite unreleased radiohead songs on it, like "True Love Waits", "Identikit", and "The Present Tense". The production is stellar, shoutout to Johnny Greenwood for that amazing orchestration, Thom's vocals are awesome as as aways, and the album is just perfect. I don't know what else to say, I just love it. Radiohead, one of the few immortals.… Expand
  37. perli
    May 9, 2016
    10
    After three listens of A Moon Shaped Pool on the loop, I must say that I like it, I like it a lot, and I am not an avid fan of Radiohead. It's on par with their best work, with Bends, OK Computer, Kid A. It's a sign, a symptom of our dark times (the powerful elites stoking wars to sell arms to stir the growth of economies, endless river of destitute refuges, terrorism, corruption,After three listens of A Moon Shaped Pool on the loop, I must say that I like it, I like it a lot, and I am not an avid fan of Radiohead. It's on par with their best work, with Bends, OK Computer, Kid A. It's a sign, a symptom of our dark times (the powerful elites stoking wars to sell arms to stir the growth of economies, endless river of destitute refuges, terrorism, corruption, pollution, tax cuts and tax avoidance for the rich and austerity and welfare cuts for the poor etc.). A Moon Shaped Pool is beautiful, hounting mix of Thom's falsetto, restrained indy guitars, electronic drones and strings in imaginative film music style with dash of chaos a la Ligeti. A masterpiece!… Expand
  38. Braunski
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Everything i wanted from a new Radiohead record, and even more.
    Mesmerizing instrumentation, heartbreaking vocals and beautiful melodies.
    A moon shaped pool is one of Radioheads best.
  39. Omniculex
    May 8, 2016
    10
    This album sounds like constantly waking up in and out of many, many dreams. Mostly sad ones, but no matter what, utterly beautiful. This is Radiohead at their most cinematic, plaintive, lush, and, by the time you realize you're listening to such a distilled version of True Love Waits, heartbreaking.
  40. GerardoRoR
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Excelente disco, excelentes canciones, excelente Radiohead, ha llenado todo el espacio que había dejado el tiempo, es una combinación de todo lo mejor de ellos
  41. carrsean
    May 12, 2016
    8
    This album was released during a flood of great music being released around the same time period. Drake with VIEWS (which is debatably decent), Death Grips with Bottomless Pit, and James Blake with "The Colour in Everything, all being released within a close time frame. Then came Radiohead with the 2 singles (Burn the Witch, and Daydreaming) and announcing their album for Sunday. Out ofThis album was released during a flood of great music being released around the same time period. Drake with VIEWS (which is debatably decent), Death Grips with Bottomless Pit, and James Blake with "The Colour in Everything, all being released within a close time frame. Then came Radiohead with the 2 singles (Burn the Witch, and Daydreaming) and announcing their album for Sunday. Out of all the records released, A Moon Shaped Pool is the one I keep coming back to. It has everything a great Radiohead record should have: Thom Yorke's soul shaking singing style, and lush instrumentation. AMSP has a similar charm to In Rainbows. It's the longest record Radiohead have released since splitting with EMI, but the quantity does not lessen the quality. With an emphasis on strings as well as some other tricks up their sleeves, Radiohead puts together one of their most beautifully sad records in a number of years. It's a record you just need to listen to yourself.
    Even though it's a record made for midnight listens and rainy days, "A Moon Shaped Pool" is hard to put down. It's a grower, but once you feel it, it's hard to let go.    … Expand
  42. pluthra
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Instant gratification on first listen which is peculiar for a Radiohead record; it will only get better once it sinks in. It's astounding how they continue to produce works like this. Truly another masterpiece.
  43. pabhead
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Absolute Middle Age Masterpiece with a naked soul kind of sound all along.....This is the album that all us (the fans) deserve from the Band that have just reinvented themselves one more time....Striped down to the the core of Thom Yorke's vision of Self, Society and the Human Mankind.....beautifully crafted over half acoustic and orchestral / half electronic instrumentations......this isAbsolute Middle Age Masterpiece with a naked soul kind of sound all along.....This is the album that all us (the fans) deserve from the Band that have just reinvented themselves one more time....Striped down to the the core of Thom Yorke's vision of Self, Society and the Human Mankind.....beautifully crafted over half acoustic and orchestral / half electronic instrumentations......this is the OK Computer for the Y Generation......Classic !… Expand
  44. connorswords
    May 8, 2016
    10
    This is their most beautiful, haunting piece to date. For me, this album is strikingly similar to Kid A. Although maybe less sonically innovative than Kid A, the coherence, in terms of both theme and sound, of AMSP rivals that of any Radiohead album
  45. spaceface
    May 8, 2016
    10
    This is simply perfect. An almost audio-visual trip to core of sadness, but not in a tragic way, but in an accepting mature way. Each and every track is so detailed and master-crafted it almost doesn't make any sense. This is the true successor to "In Rainbows". This one is a true classic.
  46. RunAmok
    May 9, 2016
    10
    I really enjoyed The King Of Limbs, but I thought that the quality of the songs on that album suffers from a bizarre cut and paste production. AMSP's production luckily goes back to the layered tidy perfection of In Rainbows, and I think that this is the reason why it might be an easier listen even for newcomers.
    The songs on the album are subtle, melancholic, full and often orchestrated    I really enjoyed The King Of Limbs, but I thought that the quality of the songs on that album suffers from a bizarre cut and paste production. AMSP's production luckily goes back to the layered tidy perfection of In Rainbows, and I think that this is the reason why it might be an easier listen even for newcomers.
    The songs on the album are subtle, melancholic, full and often orchestrated (thanks Jonny) and generally up there with Radiohead's best work.
    The tone is more pastoral and as dreamy as some moments of TKOL, but overall it feels more cohesive.
    It's also a pleasure to finally have an edited official version of songs we've been listening to for years, such as True Love Waits, Present Tense, and they've all delivered.
    It's just what fans wanted to have, so much so that at moments it almost feels like fanservice, and of the best kind.    … Expand
  47. purplecolored
    May 9, 2016
    10
    This album may not be for people with no prior knowledge or appreciation of Radioheads work, but there are certainly songs that can still appeal to the casual listener. It's their most solid and consistent album since In Rainbows and I can safely say it's up there with their better albums.
  48. 8-bit-waffle
    May 10, 2016
    10
    This album gives a Radiohead fan everything he needs from complex lyrics to catchy choruses. I feel that this album is better than their last LP king of limbs by a long shot.
  49. awruble
    May 8, 2016
    9
    It's good. It's really good. It's more than pretty good. That's why I said it was really good. If you ask me how good it is I would say really good. I'd say that since it is really good. And I do say that.
  50. yoshimon3
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Radiohead has been trying to make this album for YEARS. It's the perfect combination of accessible, experimental, acoustic, electronic, atmospheric, organic, melodic and innovative. It's their most beautiful album to date. It's message? We're all screwed. Now, as an avid Radiohead fan, I think that this is the perfect culmination of all of their previous efforts that works perfectly. It'sRadiohead has been trying to make this album for YEARS. It's the perfect combination of accessible, experimental, acoustic, electronic, atmospheric, organic, melodic and innovative. It's their most beautiful album to date. It's message? We're all screwed. Now, as an avid Radiohead fan, I think that this is the perfect culmination of all of their previous efforts that works perfectly. It's haunting, mature, dark, brooding, but mostly beautiful. Their most melodic album to date. Not a single gripe from this album. You can tell they put their soul into this one. It's basically just one BIG eargasmic, dark and twisted lullaby.
    And i've listened to this album over 8 times in the last 24 hours. Not only is it their best work since Kid A (which everyone is saying), but it's their best album to date. And no other band has released as much consistent quality as them, not even the Beatles. They haven't reached a legitimate low point yet, as their 2011 "flop" is still better than everything else released that year. Overall, 11/10. This one will go down in history. And you know what? It ISN'T too early to say this. Best Radiohead album. Best album ever. It will be as monumental as Kid A. And that's saying something. Seriously, how are they still innovating this much after all this time? So this is it, guys. This is how high the bar has been set. The best album of all time. Do you think RHCP and Gorillaz can beat it this year? I doubt it, but we'll see. This is the album we've been waiting for. Best song on the album? ALL OF THEM. Also, you can't explain about the structure of the album, it's all the same atmosphere done in ways you never thought possible. It's also in alphabetical order. This is Radiohead's goth folk experimental rock album. And no one's complaining.    … Expand
  51. GenXY
    May 8, 2016
    10
    User named "getwiththetimes" is on crack and has no ears. I don't believe he even has the ability to process cognitive brain patterns. It's likely that he was dropped on his head as a baby, but perhaps he ate paint chips as a child. He is awarded no points, and may God have mercy on his soul. Though I truly believe that he is soulless husk.
  52. dunnyone
    May 10, 2016
    10
    How is Beyonce's new album higher rated then this? A Moon shaped pool is fantastic and if you're a Radiohead fan, you'll love every track. PROTIP: listen to it on repeat, it gets better on new game plus ;)
  53. masonpatterson
    May 8, 2016
    10
    This is probably one of the most sophisticated albums they've made standing right next to Kid A and In Rainbows. It's consistent, explosive, still, and haunting. It subdues the body while it calms the mind. It's an album completely summed up in moments, very real moments, that take your breath away.
  54. DiscoNesi
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Melodic, elegant, dreamy like. This is radiohead hitting on all points. The string arrangements done by I'm assuming Johnny add a whole new element to their sound. I can't stop listening. On par with their best work. Clearly AOY.
  55. Mor0
    May 10, 2016
    10
    Most complete Radiohead album yet. Another portion of inspiration to any other artist. As outstanding as always, even after so many years in industry. Just listen and immerse - you will get blown away.
  56. BrushedRed
    May 10, 2016
    10
    Wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did since I wasn't that crazy about "Burn the Witch" when it was just first released but that song kinda grew on me a bit but thankfully it's the weakest track on here. The other tracks are absolutely stunning. "Daydreaming," "Glass Eyes," and "Ful Stop" might be my favorites on here, but "Daydreaming," in particular is one of the greatest songsWasn't expecting to like this as much as I did since I wasn't that crazy about "Burn the Witch" when it was just first released but that song kinda grew on me a bit but thankfully it's the weakest track on here. The other tracks are absolutely stunning. "Daydreaming," "Glass Eyes," and "Ful Stop" might be my favorites on here, but "Daydreaming," in particular is one of the greatest songs Radiohead has ever done. Absolutely compelling and exceptional track. I've listened to this on loop all day and I have to say I continue to crave it. I understand that there will be those who are like "this is meh because they didn't experiment," who are ironically the ones who were like "uhh.. This isn't MY Radiohead I love," when they experimented with TKoL.

    Experimental or not, just take this album for what it is: gorgeous, transportive, and organized songs that we should be rejoicing over. It has been so long since we had a Radiohead album, and this is a wonderful way to come back.    … Expand
  57. maksym26
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Don´t know how to feel about this, lyrically it´s perfect, very well produced album, when I listen to it my anxiety erupts, I feel like i´m in another universe, such a weird feeling. Still prefer OK Computer album more than this one, but this album is better than In Rainbows and Kid A, so if Kid A and In Rainbow are solid 9, and Ok Computer is solid 10 then this is 9.5. Best album ofDon´t know how to feel about this, lyrically it´s perfect, very well produced album, when I listen to it my anxiety erupts, I feel like i´m in another universe, such a weird feeling. Still prefer OK Computer album more than this one, but this album is better than In Rainbows and Kid A, so if Kid A and In Rainbow are solid 9, and Ok Computer is solid 10 then this is 9.5. Best album of 2016, and I guess it will remain like that till the end of the year.… Expand
  58. tomiowa
    May 9, 2016
    10
    The first song, Burn the Witch kicks off the album well, it’s a good opener, although I wish it started off with birds chirping like it did in the music video. But it’s an intense song, has some slow build up, with electronics pulsing in the background as Thom Yorke soars with a haunting vocal performance. The ending is great, so intense, kind of ends abruptly, but I think was wasThe first song, Burn the Witch kicks off the album well, it’s a good opener, although I wish it started off with birds chirping like it did in the music video. But it’s an intense song, has some slow build up, with electronics pulsing in the background as Thom Yorke soars with a haunting vocal performance. The ending is great, so intense, kind of ends abruptly, but I think was was intentional. The next song Daydreaming is so peaceful, it’s the longest song on the album, doesn’t exactly seem like it though. This song has a slow build up, it doesn’t explode though however like most songs do off this album, it makes you feel very lonely, and I think that’s what this song is about. The next song is Decks Dark, weird title. But it’s a great song, kind of sounds sexual in a way…, the production is so great here, Thom’s voice is so good to listen to, so soothing. The choir bit in the song adds to it perfectly, and makes it more dense, more complicated than your average track. The next song is Desert Island Disk, quite a warm sounding song with acoustic guitar, a previously unreleased song in Radiohead’s discography, like many other songs off this album. According to Thom Yorke it’s about a CD you’ll listen to stuck on a desert island, can sort of see where he’s coming from, a great song, but possibly the weakest on the album, and it kills me to say that. But now i’m excited, I get to talk about track 5, Ful Stop. Absolute masterpiece. The build up and the momentum in this song is incredible, makes you want to bob your head, makes you want to dance, it **** your brain up. Thom’s vocals are actually irresistible here, so catchy it’s unreal. He couldn’t have sung this in a better way, being honest. It’s a 6 minute track epic, which is a foundation for this album that sits about half way through the track listing here, will be a fan favourite. The next song is so lovely, Glass Eyes. The shortest song on the album sitting at 2:53. Kind of has the same feel as Faust Arp from In Rainbows, but it’s a sad song, like most off this album. The next song is a weird one, probably the weirdest here, but that has to be expected on a Radiohead album, another fan favourite from a live capacity, Identikit. Starts off with electronic beats, and slowly kicks off into this really catchy tune. The part where Ed O’Brien sings is haunting and kind of uplifting in a way. The ending to this song is great, but so bizarre and unlike Radiohead, finishes off with a guitar solo. Another thing I have to give them credit for this the use of instruments and how every member shines on this without making it too over the top. The next song is The Numbers. This song used to be called Silent Spring, used to be just an acoustic song, and they’ve given this song a huge make over. Not only added to it’s length but made it so beautiful sounding. It’s clearly about nature and the problem with global warming. The orchestral sounds are great here, makes it sound so organic and rich. And it fits in perfectly. The next song, Present Tense. Another acoustic guitar driven song, one of my favourites on this song, for sure. It has other beats swirling in the background to add to it, it isn’t done to make you become distracted from the main focus of this song. I’m not sure of the true meaning behind this song, but I feel as if it would make a good song to sing at the end of the world. The also made this song much better after putting it onto this album, and it was great to begin with anyway. The next song (the penultimate track) definitely wins the award for the weirdest and longest title, Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor Rich Man Poor Man Beggar Man Thief, try says that 5 times in a row really fast, I can’t even do it once. It’s an interesting track that starts off electronic driven, sound like something taken from Thom Yorke’s Tomorrow’s Modern Boxes, it has great lyrics, not many though I might add, it’s kind of driven by instrumentals, and Radiohead really flex their instrumental muscles here, towards the latter half of the track and especially the ending, dramatic and powerful finish. The last song here needs no introduction, True Love Waits. Radiohead first performed this live around 24 years ago, so it’s been kicking around for a while, and fans have always loved it, and I’ve loved it too, it was sitting in my top 10. This album couldn’t have ended any better, this song is PERFECT. Not only did they take a great song and just make it so much better, but they made it slower, piano driven, the acoustic guitar is gone, it’s so much more powerful, and Thom Yorke’s painful vocals are so … there are no words.., it’s painfully sad and upsetting. I believe this song is significant because Thom broke up with his wife last year and this song was first recorded/ released when they first got back together, and that adds even more to this masterpiece, hands down the best song on the album. My character limit is going to exceed. It's a masterpiece 10/10. Their best album.… Expand
  59. leiflacroix
    May 9, 2016
    10
    It is a quintessential Radiohead record. Affirmative that strings are more present than ever, the songs are more reliant on the overall texture, rather than on single-worthy moments and there are songs in the album, who date back to pre-Big Bang. However, one who has ever listened to a shred of Radiohead would recognize the band from the album even galaxies-away. It is that unmistakable,It is a quintessential Radiohead record. Affirmative that strings are more present than ever, the songs are more reliant on the overall texture, rather than on single-worthy moments and there are songs in the album, who date back to pre-Big Bang. However, one who has ever listened to a shred of Radiohead would recognize the band from the album even galaxies-away. It is that unmistakable, signature feeling Radiohead has constructed over the course of 20 years, exuding every second of the album. From the first bow-slide to the last beat, it feels so packed and suffused with emotion, sound-gimmickry (remember “Climbing up the Ladder”s extremely disconcerting strings which have been ingeniously arranged to make you feel like you wither away) and Yorke’s other-worldly voice. The combination of these elements is so endemic to Radiohead now that you cannot get even dumbfounded by the shuddering beauty of them. The album feels empowering and placating, unified and disjoint, dreadful and infinite at the same time. All these feelings coalesce around a single message: if you embrace your sadness, dread, deeply embedded and ingrained melancholia, then there is nothing you cannot tackle along the way. That is Radiohead’s unique message for us mortals.… Expand
  60. CharlieGray
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Actually, I was pretty surprised by this record, I didn't expect to like it so much as I do, I am not a Radiohead fan, I don't even like male singers/bands, so this was so amazingly shocking.
  61. nonamecaro
    May 10, 2016
    10
    this album is not better than TKOL, it is not better then In Rainbows - it is just another music from Radiohead. I appreciate new versions of those old songs with their percussions and strings. I hope this album won't be their last achievement
  62. torn8oz
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Very satisfying and relaxing album. The album is tied for best Radiohead album with OK Computer, Kid A, and In Rainbows in my opinion. It's definitely a different sound for Radiohead, which definitely isn't a bad thing. Every Radiohead album is different yet just as good which is what makes them one of the greatest bands I've ever heard. This album will definitely go down as one of theVery satisfying and relaxing album. The album is tied for best Radiohead album with OK Computer, Kid A, and In Rainbows in my opinion. It's definitely a different sound for Radiohead, which definitely isn't a bad thing. Every Radiohead album is different yet just as good which is what makes them one of the greatest bands I've ever heard. This album will definitely go down as one of the best of the year and possibly decade. Definitely worth the wait.… Expand
  63. Longrat
    May 8, 2016
    10
    A wonderful album, with beautiful melodies and haunting lyrics. An absolute MUST for any Radiohead, or even any alternative/alt rock fans in general. Magnificent.
  64. Mega-Sackman
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Probable the most impressive album in a long time, much better than King of Limbs in mi opinion and really high on Radiohead's pantheon, just not sure where yet but might be on top. There's no bad song here or one which I wouldn't listen a couple of times. Ful Stop, The Numbers, Decks Dark, Identikit and Present Tense are the best one at firs impressions but the whole album is full ofProbable the most impressive album in a long time, much better than King of Limbs in mi opinion and really high on Radiohead's pantheon, just not sure where yet but might be on top. There's no bad song here or one which I wouldn't listen a couple of times. Ful Stop, The Numbers, Decks Dark, Identikit and Present Tense are the best one at firs impressions but the whole album is full of beautiful songs. I'm in awe.… Expand
  65. exogenesis98
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Brilliant.. this album is masterfully constructed. Not only that, but its beauty is nearly unrivaled..
    To me, it is a vast improvement from "The King of Limbs" as this album seems to have more heart (Which Radiohead desperately needed).
  66. khashayarghkh
    May 8, 2016
    10
    The most interesting thing about Radiohead, is that they evolve, they change! and they always manage to surprise you, in the most strangest ways.
    I listened to this album, with no intentions ,and that's why i loved it.
  67. aakjaer
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Possible the best album Radiohead ever made and far better than 'King of Limbs'. In a way it draws from all their previous albums like a calm, clarified and mature synthesis of everything they have accomplished so far. It's like Radiohead's 'Abbey Road'. What beautiful way to end it all if this should be their last album.
  68. Hendrix11
    May 10, 2016
    10
    Radiohead always makes us think they are not going to be able to surpass themselves, but they always do, this albums is easily one of the best works they have done in their artistic career, not exactly a breakthrough album but a beautiful mixture of orchestration by johnny greenwood, electronic experimentation, and majestic lyrics by thom yorke, that make up a sonic experience that isRadiohead always makes us think they are not going to be able to surpass themselves, but they always do, this albums is easily one of the best works they have done in their artistic career, not exactly a breakthrough album but a beautiful mixture of orchestration by johnny greenwood, electronic experimentation, and majestic lyrics by thom yorke, that make up a sonic experience that is accesible, extremely emotional, and a really cohesive collection of songs that sum up what radiohead has been its entire career: musical perfection.… Expand
  69. TheDovahkiin101
    May 11, 2016
    10
    This album is much different from their others, it has so many amazing songs too. It's much sadder than all of their other albums and still manages to sound like Radiohead.
  70. WaffleMaker
    May 10, 2016
    10
    This is yet another beautiful album by Radiohead. A Moon Shaped Pool is a bit more calm and ''weird'', so you might want to listen to it multiple times to get it under your skin as is expected from radiohead. The only let down was the last track on the album that is named ''True Love Waits'', while it isn't bad, I feel that the older live version is better than this one.
  71. dustinthewind2
    May 15, 2016
    10
    A Moon Shaped Pool is much better than the experimental and tragically short album King of Limbs (thankfully), as though Radiohead's 2011 'gamble' did ultimately work-- on their next album, 5 years later, mixing what they've learned over 30 years and triumphing finally yet again in the same vein as... well, most everything besides King of Limbs and some of their mainstream rock in theA Moon Shaped Pool is much better than the experimental and tragically short album King of Limbs (thankfully), as though Radiohead's 2011 'gamble' did ultimately work-- on their next album, 5 years later, mixing what they've learned over 30 years and triumphing finally yet again in the same vein as... well, most everything besides King of Limbs and some of their mainstream rock in the earlier era.

    I think where KoL went wrong is that it all sounded very much the same. Did I hate every track? Of course not. But I didn't love nearly all of them, either. This album is what we've been waiting for since In Rainbows, even if it is half previously-performed music. An ultimate fan-service album with hopefully more content to come in, you know, less than 10 years.    … Expand
  72. not_mueller
    May 16, 2016
    10
    If you are expecting a Radiohead album like the ones past, stop. This album is less of a flowing, almost storylike album you've come to expect and nothing more than a collection of songs that were written at the same time. You can tell by the track order: the tracks are in alphabetical order. However, this is not to say the album doesn't flow. The album connects each track to the nextIf you are expecting a Radiohead album like the ones past, stop. This album is less of a flowing, almost storylike album you've come to expect and nothing more than a collection of songs that were written at the same time. You can tell by the track order: the tracks are in alphabetical order. However, this is not to say the album doesn't flow. The album connects each track to the next through their similar, hauntingly beautiful sounds and the omnipresent strings. Beautifully worked. Radiohead never fails to be consistently original.… Expand
  73. BlackWizard
    May 8, 2016
    10
    a really, really detailed record. the production had me twisted up for so much of that album! in a four speaker set up, the mixing and isolation was really rad.
    my favourite rh tracks are often their most rocky/upbeat, but the composition and themes in this album create a seriously impressive piece of art.
    i would not have anticipated the orchestral arrangements two months ago, but now    a really, really detailed record. the production had me twisted up for so much of that album! in a four speaker set up, the mixing and isolation was really rad.
    my favourite rh tracks are often their most rocky/upbeat, but the composition and themes in this album create a seriously impressive piece of art.
    i would not have anticipated the orchestral arrangements two months ago, but now that its here, it feels like such a triumphant step towards a style of music unrelated to much of their past but so very much all those pieces put together.

    realllyyyy going to have to get to know this one, i feel like there are so many little nooks and crannies to crawl into and get lost    … Expand
  74. Doll9
    May 9, 2016
    10
    This record is better than i dared hope, filled with beautiful string arrangements, moving vocal melodies and wonderful textures. There is no filler on this album at all. Style wise it's more ballads/orchestral/folk/electro mash up than rock but that doesn't mean theres no urgency, see Identikit, Burn the Witch and Ful Stop. All the new tracks totally stand up to the fan favourites. InThis record is better than i dared hope, filled with beautiful string arrangements, moving vocal melodies and wonderful textures. There is no filler on this album at all. Style wise it's more ballads/orchestral/folk/electro mash up than rock but that doesn't mean theres no urgency, see Identikit, Burn the Witch and Ful Stop. All the new tracks totally stand up to the fan favourites. In fact Present Tense is the song i enjoyed least because i was attached to an acoustic solo version i'd heard years ago, but it's still a good song. I thought their last album was solid but never warmed to it the way i have to this one in just 24hrs. I am very impressed.… Expand
  75. Flashdump
    May 11, 2016
    8
    Really good album. Very heartfelt. Beautifully composed, arranged, written and produced. Identikit is a bit of an odd one for me (purely because I loved what I heard of the live version). Not a huge fan of Ful Stop
  76. BenjaminStone
    May 15, 2016
    10
    Color me shocked. Then pleasantly surprised. And ultimately overwhelmingly joyful.

    After The King of Limbs I was wondering where this band was going. That was a very flat record, to be frank. However I saw them live the following year and they played some of those songs and...the passion, the vitality that was missing on the album was restored on stage. This one though. They left no    Color me shocked. Then pleasantly surprised. And ultimately overwhelmingly joyful.

    After The King of Limbs I was wondering where this band was going. That was a very flat record, to be frank. However I saw them live the following year and they played some of those songs and...the passion, the vitality that was missing on the album was restored on stage.

    This one though. They left no doubt. From the opening plucks to the last gasp.

    The thing I love about Radiohead is how they turn the familiar alien. I know I've heard that chord progression in many other places -- but not like this.

    This is different.

    This band is different.

    They're like f*cking Voltron, powerful on their own but when they come together they're unstoppable.

    A+    … Expand
  77. vincentsimeon
    May 17, 2016
    10
    Hum, well, where may I start this review ? It will be short, simply because I'm voiceless. Only RH can touch me like that and I'm a huge music listener in a lot of different music styles ! Their best work yet IMO. I'm listening it right now and let you here to appreciate it with closed eyes.
  78. JPV328
    May 9, 2016
    10
    Radiohead have delivered the greatest album in the history of rock music. A Moon Shaped Pool is deeply satisfying and will shake you to the core. Gorgeous. Thank you, Radiohead.
  79. paulgreen
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Estheticly perfect and emotionally deep by now it is one of the best albums this year (along with Blackstar by David Bowie). If you ask me if this thing can change music industry, I would say "hell, yeah, what a quiestion?"
  80. zuera
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Really nice album, relaxing melodies with amazing lyrics.
    I don't wanna write anymore but metacritic don't let me send the review unless there is more than 150 characters.....
  81. dare
    May 9, 2016
    10
    beautiful, wonderfully, charmingly, magnificent, stunning, ravishing, amazing, dreamy,
    touching, indescribable, powerful, delightfully, thoroughly, elegantly......
  82. TWOSOULS
    May 8, 2016
    10
    It feels like you are listening to the in rainbows V.2 . not that is bad or anything , it's elegant in a very great way . so I think if you like in rainbows and kid a , there is a good chance to love this too. I hope radiohead and paul thomas anderson team up again in near future .
  83. zeroDEMUS
    May 8, 2016
    10
    LP9 also known as A Moon Shaped Pool completely blew me away.

    It's feels weird saying this since I am the person who reads all the possible information about Radiohead and I was well prepared for all the weirdness that comes along with the release of their new records. I was also fully aware that it will be something different, as always. This album is an emotional roller coaster    LP9 also known as A Moon Shaped Pool completely blew me away.

    It's feels weird saying this since I am the person who reads all the possible information about Radiohead and I was well prepared for all the weirdness that comes along with the release of their new records. I was also fully aware that it will be something different, as always.

    This album is an emotional roller coaster filled with a big variety of different instruments and some of the most beautiful and clever songwriting you could ever imagine. I feel like the songs here are very approachable for new listeners as well, unlike TKOL. It all just sounds so fresh and clean.

    I don't even feel like going further in to the details. It simply feels surreal to listen the best album of a decade for the first time. AMSP is everything that I wanted as a fan, and so much more!    … Expand
  84. sbernhoft
    May 9, 2016
    10
    This record is pretty close to perfect. On par with Radiohead's best work, this record seems more personal than anything they've released. Daydreaming, Glass Eyes, and True Love waits are stand-out tracks.
  85. rudsat
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Breathtaking, beautiful, sad, joyful, there is everything in this record. It is just perfect. The songs The Numbers and Identikit are standouts and there is no weak track. 10!
  86. AndresAlfonso
    May 10, 2016
    10
    Is a Darker in rainbows , Another masterpiece by Radiohead , awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome , awesome , awesome , awesome , awesome , awesome ,awesome
  87. Eggs
    May 11, 2016
    10
    There is only one band on the planet that could produce an album like this. I was a big fan of TKoL as it was an album to immerse yourself in with layers of artfully painted music based on strokes of Yorkeish electronica melded with percussive influences. In AMSP Johnny Greenwood is given a chance to demonstrate the evolution of his composing talents with lush orchestral soundscapesThere is only one band on the planet that could produce an album like this. I was a big fan of TKoL as it was an album to immerse yourself in with layers of artfully painted music based on strokes of Yorkeish electronica melded with percussive influences. In AMSP Johnny Greenwood is given a chance to demonstrate the evolution of his composing talents with lush orchestral soundscapes driving much of the album. They have always set them selves apart from other bands with their ability to unveil little revelations with each listen, and this album is no exception. They are a band for true audiophiles. In short, this album is an eerily, majestic unfurling of the inner contemplations of maturing artists.… Expand
  88. tyho451
    May 11, 2016
    10
    Echoing desperation and sleepily on edge, this is a paranoid android on a damn good tranquilizer. By the middle of my first listen I couldn't tell what was up or sideways. I was lost in the most accessible and arguably the most convincing of the near flawless 25 year spree this band is now on.
  89. Jacob1998
    May 10, 2016
    10
    For me, In Rainbows is the Brainchild of Radiohead's unprecedented journey. However, listening to this (possibly final) Radiohead album finally put all the pieces together. It's clear that while this is not Radiohead's best album, it's certainly their most fluid and beautiful to date (maybe with the exception of Kid A). We start off with 'Burn the Witch', possibly the biggest punch of theFor me, In Rainbows is the Brainchild of Radiohead's unprecedented journey. However, listening to this (possibly final) Radiohead album finally put all the pieces together. It's clear that while this is not Radiohead's best album, it's certainly their most fluid and beautiful to date (maybe with the exception of Kid A). We start off with 'Burn the Witch', possibly the biggest punch of the album in terms of the 'rock-like' nature. This song maintains Radiohead's ability to continuously produce a kick-ass song opening. For me this is a 9 out of 10 song. We delve into the beauty and melancholy of 'Daydreaming', a personal favorite of mine. The song's hidden layers will keep you coming back for more and the growth/build of the song is like none other by Radiohead, Thom's vocals are heartbreaking. A 10/10 song for me. Next, we get the first new song 'Decks Dark', a fantasy (quite Dystopian-like) in which the piano carries the song (slower than the first but a build from 'Daydreaming') This song reminds me a bit of SHA from OK Computer (both of which are song#3 on respective albums). This song grew on me after multiple listens and I feel safe to give it a 9/10 at this point. "Desert Island Disk' is a song performed by Thom at the Paris Peace Concert along with 'Silent Spring/The Numbers". The guitar riff on this carries the song and eventually, grows into a jazz;-like groove. Overall an 8/10 for me and my least favorite on the album, but still a very pleasant song to listen to. 'Ful Stop' is next on the list. This song is slowly growing to become one of my favorites on the album; a bass and drum riff that grows until explosion with Thom murmuring 'You really messed up everything'. In the end, the product is an explosion of sound and rhythm (this may be Phil's highlight). 9.5/10 song. The intermission is 'Glass Eyes', another true beauty. This song is more of a ballad than anything, and a gorgeous one at that (likely formulated around Thom's breakup). This song may not be a 10/10, but it is perfect for the album and in the perfect place, over all 10/10. 'Identikit' is the last awakening of rock on the album and may be the most gripping song on the album. The song starts off with a very mild but funky bass and drum riff with Thom's vocals chiming in and out, and similarly to 'Ful Stop', builds into something exceptional with a well-needed guitar solo to close the song. 9.5/10. I could go on and on about this album and the remaining songs. 'The Numbers' is 'Silent Spring', a song played by Yorke at the Paris Peace Concert. Overall, a very 'chill' and accessible song with a build as the song nears its end. One I truly enjoyed as I was unsure what the song was until I heard the opening 'Silent Spring' chord and it brought me back to the concert. Well needed. Still debating what to rank this song. 'Present Tense' is possibly my third favorite on the album. This song is truly beautiful; the guitar, vocals, and smooth drumming compliment each other perfectly. I loved this song in concert and I love it now, 9.5/10 (on account of the slightly uneasy guitar opening which throws me off a bit) and a perfect fit for the album. The next song is one which truly grew on me after multiple listens and it is easily my second favorite on the album 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor Rich Man Poor Man Beggar Man Thief'. This song title is long, but the song is perfect in length, well tailored. Another 'build' song which starts off slowly and builds as it goes on. The string section comes in so smoothly and elegantly to compliment Thom's stunning vocals. One of Radiohead's most notable modern melodies lies in this song. (10/10). The final song is one which I will not rate. I'm still deciding whether 'True Love Waits' was better on 'I Might Be Wrong' or on this album. Regardless, the lyrics are some of Radiohead's best. The melody...stunning...choice in instrumentation...debatable. I'll save this for some other day. Overall, this album is utterly stunning and beautiful, it's a true return to form for Radiohead and an exceptional fit to an exceptional legacy. Radiohead did not let me down and will forever be my all time favorite band with The Beatles. Enjoy everyone!… Expand
  90. JordanMaster
    May 12, 2016
    10
    Absolutely amazing album. It feels like they've revisited their old albums and incorporated those with their current style. Definitely a big improvement over The King of Limbs for me. This album deserves a spot right next to Kid A and OK Computer.
  91. tishyw98
    May 11, 2016
    10
    such a great record with great use of an orchestra to create a very chilling piece of sound. After multiple listens, this album really begins to grow on you and i could even consider it one of their best albums to date imo.
  92. jesseurbancsik
    May 11, 2016
    10
    Everyone gets annoyed because of all the acclaim that Radiohead receives, but this album reinforces that they deserve it. Melancholy, beautiful, regret. This album is beautifully mastered with amazing sounds that will haunt you until you listen to it whole again. This album is a true fan album MADE for the FANS.

    Highlights:    Everyone gets annoyed because of all the acclaim that Radiohead receives, but this album reinforces that they deserve it. Melancholy, beautiful, regret. This album is beautifully mastered with amazing sounds that will haunt you until you listen to it whole again. This album is a true fan album MADE for the FANS.

    Highlights: Burn the Witch, Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor Rich Man Poor Man Beggar Man Thief, and True Love Waits.    … Expand
  93. hiddensynapse
    May 10, 2016
    10
    There's something remarkable about this album.

    Be it the elegantly elusive and haunting orchestral work by Jonny, or the stripped back melodic soundscapes and dreamy lyrics of Thom, there's always a new sound or note dragging you further into A Moon Shaped Pool. It's cohesive, consistent, melodic and experimental. Not only that, but Radiohead chose the perfect time to release it.    There's something remarkable about this album.

    Be it the elegantly elusive and haunting orchestral work by Jonny, or the stripped back melodic soundscapes and dreamy lyrics of Thom, there's always a new sound or note dragging you further into A Moon Shaped Pool.

    It's cohesive, consistent, melodic and experimental. Not only that, but Radiohead chose the perfect time to release it.

    Not only does A Moon Shaped Pool possess the haunted humanity so prevalent on In Rainbows, but it also pleas the modern world to reacquaint itself with nature. As opposed to OK Computer and Kid A, Pool doesn't necessarily condemn our increasingly technological world. Instead, it beckons us to peel our eyes away from our glossy-screened distractions so that we may embrace the present tense and see the Earth as she is, laid bare before us. "Distance is like a weapon," it warns.

    Thom likens the awakened populace, those who have seen the majesty of mother nature, to flower petals lost in the wind - momentarily fleeting and easy to dismiss, yet immortally primed to return and sprout anew.

    "The future is inside us," Thom advises. "It's not somewhere else".

    A Moon Shaped Pool's warnings are urgently relevant, and we'd do well to heed their advice.    … Expand
  94. movieman2001
    May 11, 2016
    10
    Wow, let me just say that the new album is very good !! I am a diehard fan and have been chomping at the bit for this album to be released. check out the videos on youtube for the first two tracks BURN THE WITCH is track #1 and DAYDREAMING is track #2. The album is so fluid and balanced, BURN THE WITCH is the most up tempo track followed by DAYDREAMING which is exactly as it sounds, veryWow, let me just say that the new album is very good !! I am a diehard fan and have been chomping at the bit for this album to be released. check out the videos on youtube for the first two tracks BURN THE WITCH is track #1 and DAYDREAMING is track #2. The album is so fluid and balanced, BURN THE WITCH is the most up tempo track followed by DAYDREAMING which is exactly as it sounds, very mellow and dream like and one of my favorite tracks on the album. FUL STOP and IDENTIKIT i saw them perform live in 1212 on tour in Miami and Tampa and they are great tracks also. Altogether the album has 11 tracks, two other tracks that are my favorites are THE NUMBERS and the last track, A new version of TRUE LOVE WAITS that you will absolutely love!!! My favorite RADIOHEAD album is KID, but after OK COMPUTER and IN RAINBOWS this is my forth favorite. Let me also say that this album has no filler tracks at all they are all very solid tracks.… Expand
  95. MillStoner
    May 9, 2016
    10
    I just don't want this album to end. After every listen, something new creeps into my ear. The Numbers may be one of my favourite Radiohead songs at the minute. The Atmosphere this album creates is melancholic but beautiful in it's own right.
  96. mynameisjonas
    May 15, 2016
    10
    They know how to make a record that will stand the test of time. Repeat upon repeat, it just gets better. Exquisite, magnificent, **** just go listen to it!
  97. Footowls
    May 11, 2016
    10
    very strange album and a pleasant surprise to know that radio head never lost their edge and it still one of the best bands around. Advice if you want a weird trip this is the album to go to.
  98. tylerpurinton
    May 8, 2016
    10
    Strong melodies, catchy percussion, vibrant strings - an album Radiohead should be proud of. Great to hear some guitar again, and the way Thom uses his voice is fresh as ever.
  99. lordofcattown
    May 8, 2016
    10
    After TKOL, Radiohead seems to have gone back to their old selves, with songs that resemble OK Computer, Kid A, and In Rainbows. Their use of orchestral instruments in most of their songs is amazing and leaves you wanting more. They have finally made studio versions to songs that have previously only been played live or referenced, such as Burn the Witch, Identikit, and True Love Waits. ItAfter TKOL, Radiohead seems to have gone back to their old selves, with songs that resemble OK Computer, Kid A, and In Rainbows. Their use of orchestral instruments in most of their songs is amazing and leaves you wanting more. They have finally made studio versions to songs that have previously only been played live or referenced, such as Burn the Witch, Identikit, and True Love Waits. It is probably my personal favorite album as a whole, besides In Rainbows.… Expand
  100. aforeashore
    May 9, 2016
    10
    after years of waiting. Your review must be at least 150 characters long.Your review must be at least 150 characters long.Your review must be at least 150 characters long.Your review must be at least 150 characters long.Your review must be at least 150 characters long.Your review must be at least 150 characters long.Your review must be at least 150 characters long.
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Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best Album of 2016
8
#8 Most Discussed Album of 2016
11
#11 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 43 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 43
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 43
  3. Negative: 0 out of 43
  1. Austin Chronicle
    Aug 11, 2016
    89
    Gone are any remnants of yesteryear's "rock music" ideology, thrusting Radiohead into a mature state of potentially their best work still to come.
    Read full review
  2. Magnet
    Aug 9, 2016
    90
    This is Radiohead's deepest, darkest pool of devotion and doubt in a career marked by almost nothing but. [No. 133, p.51]
  3. Uncut
    Jun 21, 2016
    90
    There's a lighter, more hopeful bent to the musical settings, which perfectly balance the more dissonant leanings of The King Of Limbs with a sumptuousness and gentleness they've rarely sought since OK Computer. [Aug 2016, p.81]
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