In Rainbows
by Radiohead
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 2281 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,078 out of 2281
  2. Mixed: 71 out of 2281
  3. Negative: 132 out of 2281

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  1. Dan
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Absolutely gorgeous. I can't stop listening to it! They are on such a higher level of musical talent than any other band I've heard.
  2. carld.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Best since OK Computer ,heart warming
  3. KSlice
    Oct 16, 2007
    9
    Reckoner rocks. All I Want makes me well-up. Thealbum is almost unassuming in the way it warms up to you. I am wildly surprised by how much I like it - and how much more I like it each time I hear it. Even non-Radiohead fans will find at least one track they'll like.
  4. BP
    Oct 16, 2007
    8
    No big deal, Kid A is still their best.
  5. DanL
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    My expectations for this album were sky-high, and I can't say that they weren't met. In Rainbows contains several tracks that practically brought me to tears upon listening to them, and I really can't say that often. There isn't one weak track on this album, and as great as Amnesiac or Hail to the Thief are, In Rainbows absolutely dwarves both of those albums. My expectations for this album were sky-high, and I can't say that they weren't met. In Rainbows contains several tracks that practically brought me to tears upon listening to them, and I really can't say that often. There isn't one weak track on this album, and as great as Amnesiac or Hail to the Thief are, In Rainbows absolutely dwarves both of those albums. Personally, my favorite tracks are: "Nude," "Weird Fishes/Arpeggi," "Reckoner," and "Jigsaw Falling into Place." However, in order to fully appreciate any of the tracks, you need to listen to the album from start to finish, as it flows better than any Radiohead album since OK Computer. I can't wait to hear the bonus tracks that come with the discbox. The only thing keeping In Rainbows from becoming a masterpiece is the fact that it was only released one week ago... time will tell.… Expand
  6. Sam
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Beautiful.
  7. ElvisP.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    In Rainbows and Kid A are the best albuns of the decade!!!
  8. AaronS.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Best album since 'Kid A'. I liked 'Hail to the Thief' and 'Amnesiac', but have to say that Radiohead haven't sounded this alive as a band in years. Compulsively listenable.
  9. GuyH
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Falls slightly short of The Bends and Ok Computer but possibly only due to the trifling matter of having two less tracks than those two colossi! They finally nail a few ideas they've been experimenting with on the last 3 albums - 'Jigsaw' and 'Weird Fish' completely destroy 'I Might be Wrong', 'In Limbo', 'Where I End', etc. The intro Falls slightly short of The Bends and Ok Computer but possibly only due to the trifling matter of having two less tracks than those two colossi! They finally nail a few ideas they've been experimenting with on the last 3 albums - 'Jigsaw' and 'Weird Fish' completely destroy 'I Might be Wrong', 'In Limbo', 'Where I End', etc. The intro to '15 Step' conjures up nightmares of electro skit hell but the song develops well and turns into a really addictive opener. 'Bodysnatchers' is their best rocker since The Bends. 'Reckoner', 'Nude' and 'Videotape' are right up there with 'Fake plastic Trees', 'Exit Music' and 'How to Disappear Completely'. 'Faust Arp' is completely fresh and offers up a very different vocal performance from Thom. 'All I Need' and 'House of Cards' are mood pieces but infinitely more satisfying than 'The Gloaming', 'Spinning Plates', 'Hunting Bears' and the like. This is the first Radiohead album since 'Kid A' where the songs complement each other and add up to a satisfying whole. There is also a lightness to this album that is unique and stands it in good stead. Whisper it but in time 'Rainbows' could slowly, but surely, become the Radiohead album you feel like listening to most often.… Expand
  10. GraemeW.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    Unlike many people, I thought Kid A and Amnesiac were a wonderful departure from OK Computer/Bends era, showcasing the band's varied talents, courage in experimentation, and wealth of influences, from Bjork and Aphex Twin to Charles Mingus and various Classical composers. This album is the most cohesive of their efforts since Kid A, and yet it has some of melodic brilliance, passion Unlike many people, I thought Kid A and Amnesiac were a wonderful departure from OK Computer/Bends era, showcasing the band's varied talents, courage in experimentation, and wealth of influences, from Bjork and Aphex Twin to Charles Mingus and various Classical composers. This album is the most cohesive of their efforts since Kid A, and yet it has some of melodic brilliance, passion and gravitas of their earlier works. The songs work well together, and there is a brilliant mix of sounds, overlapping layers of instruments and electronics, and, for good measure, a lot of soul. Well worth the listen of any music fan, let alone a Radiohead one.… Expand
  11. ToddW.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    In Rainbows is a perfect amalgam of all that came before from the best band on the planet. While not groundbreaking like O.K. Computer or Kid A, Yorke, Greenwood, Selway, et al. show the pretenders just how to construct a melody quite unlike anything you've ever heard before. That's what keeps the fanatics, like me, coming back for more. A strong contender for album of the year.
  12. jeremy
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    I've never been a huge a fan of Radiohead, but this album blew me away. It flows smoothly, and every song is fantastic. And, it's fun to listen to! My one complaint? A lot of the songs sound similar. But hey, it makes for a superb album.
  13. MichaelG
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    "In/Rainbows" has been an interesting experience for me already. The only thing I can compare it to is my impressions of "Paranoid Android" ten years ago. The first time I heard it I thought it was unique and interesting, but I wasn't completely sold. After about my third listen something about it grabbed me. I don't know if that was how long it took me to catch lyrics, the "In/Rainbows" has been an interesting experience for me already. The only thing I can compare it to is my impressions of "Paranoid Android" ten years ago. The first time I heard it I thought it was unique and interesting, but I wasn't completely sold. After about my third listen something about it grabbed me. I don't know if that was how long it took me to catch lyrics, the brilliant structure or if it was a chemical reaction, hysterical and useless (I know - different song). But from then on it was a completely different song than it had been before. I had the same happen with this whole album. My attitude towards it was very lukewarm for the first two or three listens. I don't know when it changed. I think "Nude" and "Reckoner" were where it started. But now, when I play "15 Steps" I cannot stop until it completes. When "Videotape" winds down breathless and beautiful, I want to begin again. And that kind of obsessive listening to an entire album is a privilege few discs have enjoyed. There is something very special here. Dusted Mag needs to give it a few more listens. They will regret the score given, much as I would have regretted the 7 I would have given it a week ago after only two perusals.… Expand
  14. L.D.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    mystically mellow...
  15. Esther
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Simply Amazing!! I'm still in awe that this is a Radiohead Album, they took their musicianship to a whole new level. It is definitely their best album to date and deserves a 10.
  16. Lachlan
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    'In Rainbows' is easily the best album of the year. While not as groundbreaking like 'OK Computer' or 'Kid A' (marketing scheme aside), 'In Rainbows' is definitely an improvement over the slightly disappointing 'Hail to the Thief'. There is not a single weak moment or a single track that could be considered as filler. Radiohead has crafted 'In Rainbows' is easily the best album of the year. While not as groundbreaking like 'OK Computer' or 'Kid A' (marketing scheme aside), 'In Rainbows' is definitely an improvement over the slightly disappointing 'Hail to the Thief'. There is not a single weak moment or a single track that could be considered as filler. Radiohead has crafted one of their most confident, coherent, and complex albums I have ever heard. Stand out tracks include 'Bodysnatchers', 'Videotape' and 'All I Need'. Of particular note is the stunning 'Weird Fishes / Arpeggi', which is one of Radiohead's most haunting, disturbing tracks of all time. 'Weird Fishes / Arpeggi' is up there with 'Let Down', 'Everything In Its Right Place' and 'Street Spirit'. Overall, I would recommend Radiohead's 'In Rainbows' to anyone who wants to listen to a band at its most assured.… Expand
  17. izzyj.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    everything in its right place. exceeded my expectations. warm.
  18. FredJ.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Others have said it best. "Hauntingly beautiful" I know it's a bit early, but I believe this to be one of my favorite albums by anyone ever. Beautiful.
  19. PhilipD.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Fantastic, gorgeous and not one song even considered for skipping. Check out 15 Step, Apreggi, Nude, Bodysnatchers and Jisaw Falling Into Place!
  20. NicholasM.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Best album not only of this year but since Kid A, easily, fantastic albuim.
  21. JordanS.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    It's like walking the arc of a rainbow, blissful beauty, but still threatened by the sight of the distant storm raging with madness. Great stuff.
  22. HasbroM.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    The tightest and most grippingly beautiful thing they have ever recorded. While it does not upstage their other work, it does add yet another new piece to their growing collection of outstanding albums and makes their older work sound that much more right.
  23. herberth.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    This new uplifting and radient album seems to be remnants of The Bends, Ok Computer and Hail to the Theif. It is a great way to pull all 6 studio albums together. This album ranks up there with the best of Radiohead!!!!!
  24. E
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    It's not as good as Kid A, but what could be? All in all, I'd probably place it 3rd in Radiohead's catalogue, which automatically puts it above most other music. It's great to finally hear some of these songs that have been circulating for so long, although I still prefer the live bootlegged version of Videotape (seriously, go check that out). Overall, an album that It's not as good as Kid A, but what could be? All in all, I'd probably place it 3rd in Radiohead's catalogue, which automatically puts it above most other music. It's great to finally hear some of these songs that have been circulating for so long, although I still prefer the live bootlegged version of Videotape (seriously, go check that out). Overall, an album that manages to be simultaneously lush and sparse, and sounds like nothing else out there, despite its conventional instrumentation. Thank God for Radiohead.… Expand
  25. PaulJ.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    I would actually give this a 9.5 if I could, but I could not rank it a 10 since that would be in the territory of OK Computer and Amnesiac- albums which were a little more streamlined than this effort. However, this is still one of their best albums and definitely shows the ongoing effort of the band to be avant-garde. Fantastic listen!
  26. OctavianI.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Great album !
  27. JuanR.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    simply amazing... Radiohead never fail.
  28. HendrikK.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    This is a stunningly good album. The most laid-back and accessible Radiohead album to date; and the most emotionally introverted; but nonetheless stunning in its subtle, layered sound, built over Colin Greenwood's throbbing basslines and Phil Selway's scattershot drumming. I love Thom Yorke's haunting falsetto. This has massively exceeded my expectations. Can't wait This is a stunningly good album. The most laid-back and accessible Radiohead album to date; and the most emotionally introverted; but nonetheless stunning in its subtle, layered sound, built over Colin Greenwood's throbbing basslines and Phil Selway's scattershot drumming. I love Thom Yorke's haunting falsetto. This has massively exceeded my expectations. Can't wait for the box set and the "extra" tracks contained therein! 10/10.… Expand
  29. joelC.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    Something to enjoy for a long long time, Videotape is one going straight to the top 3 of radiohead
  30. Matt
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    This is why they're Radiohead and everyone else isn't.
  31. Vin
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    Beautiful record! Gives me a head rush for the first half then puts me in harmony for the last of it. This record is one of their best to date, worth it to pick it up. If your have been a Radiohead fan you won't be disappointed.
  32. NigelS.
    Oct 18, 2007
    9
    A nice relaxed return to the studio for Radiohead. Maybe not as in your face as 2003's Hail to the Thief, but much deeper and easier on the ears. Its as if the band wrote these songs, and just stripped all the fat off of them in the recording studio. There is no filler here.
  33. sidy.
    Oct 18, 2007
    9
    After listening to In Rainbows a few times, It seems to me almost as if everything Radiohead has done after OK Computer were experiments in preparation for this album.
  34. JustinH.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Brilliant.
  35. RobC.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Lush. Sparse. Beautiful.
  36. jacopot.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    GO THOM
  37. RufatR.
    Oct 19, 2007
    7
    Music is not so different, as in previous albums. But it's still Radiohead stylish, and Thom's voice is still one of the most sinsere ones.
  38. MikeW
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    it is the perfect album. every song is brilliant. there are no stand outs or "singles" - u could not release these songs separately. they are all part of one long journey. every band member's contribution can be clearly heard. videotape is the saddest and most moving song i have ever heard. there couldnt be a better and more satisfying ending to an album
  39. Alexis
    Oct 19, 2007
    9
    This is a gentler, warmer and more accessible Kid A. It's not as good as OK Computer, but it's solid. They are so much more interesting, intelligent, original, creative and talented than any other band in the world today.
  40. kkk.
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    in rainbows is an album which is different from other albums of radiohead as well as other people's albums
  41. ScottW.
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    The quality most reviews are missing in this album is Soul. "In Rainbows" has true soul, and groove, in a very light touch. Organic, rooted, Marvin Gaye soul, blended in with their jazziness, rhythmic undercurrents, orchestral waves, and epic gaze. This is a unique album, a confidently subtle melding of their myriad influences, creating a sound that is wholly original, yet warmly The quality most reviews are missing in this album is Soul. "In Rainbows" has true soul, and groove, in a very light touch. Organic, rooted, Marvin Gaye soul, blended in with their jazziness, rhythmic undercurrents, orchestral waves, and epic gaze. This is a unique album, a confidently subtle melding of their myriad influences, creating a sound that is wholly original, yet warmly familiar. Spend some time with "in Rainbows", and feel yourself expand into it's vast, butwelcoming, space.… Expand
  42. DarenW
    Nov 9, 2007
    10
    The first listen, it's OK. But after about the 10th listening, I realized this CD is still growing on me. I'm addicted, I have to now have a daily listen! It's one of Radiohead's best, right now 2nd to OK Computer!
  43. kelseyh
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    This album has made all other music irrellevant for me for the past week. I have not listened to anything else, and I have still to get tired of it. Radiohead are so far and about anything else anyone else has done since the talking heads.
  44. jeffort23
    Dec 10, 2007
    8
    Granted, while it contains neither the estranged beauty found on OK Computer nor the exhilarating rush of reinvention that was Kid A, this album reminds you of the better qualities of both works. At times, both familiar and unsettling --- it's the sound of drowning in a warm bath, of being pleasantly out of place.
  45. Vengeance
    Dec 13, 2007
    10
    Listen to both cds back to back... pure genius. Not for the people who are stuck in the nineties and want to hear the limited sounds of the bends and ok computer, but above those two albums. I understand it, i for a long time thought that that was their best work but then i heard 'In Rainbows'. Listen to the lyrics, the vocal line is the best instrument in Radiohead. Without it, Listen to both cds back to back... pure genius. Not for the people who are stuck in the nineties and want to hear the limited sounds of the bends and ok computer, but above those two albums. I understand it, i for a long time thought that that was their best work but then i heard 'In Rainbows'. Listen to the lyrics, the vocal line is the best instrument in Radiohead. Without it, they'd be a totally different band.… Expand
  46. drewt
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    This just might be the best Radiohead album yet, and if not, it's certainly their most direct and emotional album. And that's what's so great about it, the songs are impeccable, the arrangements are fantastic always, but the focus is squarely on the songwriting for the first time in the past ten years. Obviously there's the endless debate between OK Computer and Kid A, This just might be the best Radiohead album yet, and if not, it's certainly their most direct and emotional album. And that's what's so great about it, the songs are impeccable, the arrangements are fantastic always, but the focus is squarely on the songwriting for the first time in the past ten years. Obviously there's the endless debate between OK Computer and Kid A, but I think "In Rainbows" could be a major contender. I don't think that enough people are aware of how lucky we are to have a band like Radiohead still around and putting out consistently fantastic music. And "In Rainbows" is ultra-fantastic.… Expand
  47. Laura
    Dec 2, 2007
    10
    You know it always takes a little time for the utter genius behind their music to reveal itself. When it does, it's so scintillating! 'Nude' is probably one of the most sensual songs I've ever heard. The voice is velvet. '15 step' ...Jeez, who makes music in 5 time anyway? And doesn't make it sound academic. It's a rush. 'Arpeggio' is You know it always takes a little time for the utter genius behind their music to reveal itself. When it does, it's so scintillating! 'Nude' is probably one of the most sensual songs I've ever heard. The voice is velvet. '15 step' ...Jeez, who makes music in 5 time anyway? And doesn't make it sound academic. It's a rush. 'Arpeggio' is compelling and atmospheric. I am so in love with this CD. Thank god (or whatever you thank for good things) for Radiohead.… Expand
  48. BonoV.
    Dec 21, 2007
    9
    Their best work since OKC in my opinion. They continue to evolve like no other band. At first listen I was tempted to be disappointed by 15 Steps and Bodysnatchers as I had heard them live but Nude just takes you to another place and it flows from their. Thom's voice is front and center and never sounded better. Album of the Year!
  49. ShaunB
    Oct 22, 2007
    9
    If there is anything we should have learnt about Radiohead by now, it's that we should not compare one album to another. Not even Kid A (which I loved) could be compared to Amnesiac (which I found disappointing)...and they were recorded in the same session! So I am certainly not going to compare In Rainbows with OK Computer (which is my favourite album of all time). Anyway, here are If there is anything we should have learnt about Radiohead by now, it's that we should not compare one album to another. Not even Kid A (which I loved) could be compared to Amnesiac (which I found disappointing)...and they were recorded in the same session! So I am certainly not going to compare In Rainbows with OK Computer (which is my favourite album of all time). Anyway, here are Radiohead using the sound they have developed over the past 3 albums, but suddenly it is more focused. They have found the perfect balance between their experimental jazzy sounds and good-old fashioned songwriting. I was very surprised with In Rainbows, as I approached with extreme caution...and, for the first time since 2000, Radiohead pleasantly surprised me. The love affair with the Oxford band is back on.… Expand
  50. MattA
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Amazing. Simply put. I can't think of a single track that i don't like... ...it may not be for everyone...but it's definitely for me.
  51. mycles.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    odd but accessible. sad but encouraging. minimal but lush. low-fi but hi-fi. incredible. radiohead keeps making better albums. soft but harsh. alienating but loving. they keep rock alive by killing it.
  52. AndrewW
    Oct 22, 2007
    9
    I like this record- an improvement on the last 2. It might even be better than kidA after a few more listens. What I can't agree with are those reviewers saying this album isn't another "electronic" album. After my first few listens, this is more of an "electronic album" than hail to the thief was. Plenty of beeps and drum machines here. I do like it though. Good effort.
  53. MichaelP.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Brilliant - gets better with each listen!!
  54. MaxM.
    Oct 22, 2007
    8
    Radiohead is probably the best living band right now. They had a great run and I am glad they finally came out with an album after the long wait after "Hail to the Theif". To be honest, I think Thom Yorke's "The Eraser" was a bit more enjoyable. This new album has many decent songs and a few really good ones like 15 Step and Bodysnatchers. I was absolutely disgusted by the third Radiohead is probably the best living band right now. They had a great run and I am glad they finally came out with an album after the long wait after "Hail to the Theif". To be honest, I think Thom Yorke's "The Eraser" was a bit more enjoyable. This new album has many decent songs and a few really good ones like 15 Step and Bodysnatchers. I was absolutely disgusted by the third track, Nude. I've heard the unreleased version of Nude and it was alot better than what I heard in "In Rainbows".… Expand
  55. tomj.
    Oct 22, 2007
    9
    My favorite since OK Computer. Radiohead has rediscovered what made them great; the ability to translate emotion in perfect melodies.
  56. carolR.A.
    Dec 24, 2007
    10
    Thank you very much RaDioHead!!
  57. StevenN.
    Dec 24, 2007
    10
    Bursting with emotional melodies, atmospheric hazy sounds scattered within off beat tempo's. Wierd Fishes standout track by miles of depths of oceans.
  58. JohnT.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Nice trolling Jonathan H
  59. SeanC.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Having listened to this on loop since its Wednesday release nearly two weeks ago (as of today, you see), being almost genuinely unable to listen to anything else, I can say that this is a new masterpiece from "the world's most interesting band." I see people giving this zeros and middling reviews, and while I understand that people have different opinions, much of it smacks of Having listened to this on loop since its Wednesday release nearly two weeks ago (as of today, you see), being almost genuinely unable to listen to anything else, I can say that this is a new masterpiece from "the world's most interesting band." I see people giving this zeros and middling reviews, and while I understand that people have different opinions, much of it smacks of Internet Contrarianism, and a zero review is simply indefensible, no matter your opinion; you're wrong, and you're sad for being such a tool. Either way, I pity anyone who doesn't get as much enjoyment and elation from this album as I have. It is as vital as any music I've heard.… Expand
  60. JohnJ.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    The best Radiohead album since OK Computer.
  61. DaveW.
    Dec 27, 2007
    10
    i must be the only naive mofo on earth that feels that every single radiohead album has been an evolutionary improvement on the last. musically, technically. broke boundaries. this is no exception. my only gripe is that it took them so goddamn long. awesome.
  62. Kaleb
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    If Hail to the Thief was like an almost hour long Paranoid Android - gloomy, tense, frantic, aggressive, muscular, unpredictable and complex, then In Rainbows is like a forty-minute long No Surprises - relaxed, dreamy, delicate, sweet, lush and hypnotic, even to the point of being nearly comatose (Videotape). No surprises here indeed, as In Rainbows is Radiohead's most user-friendly If Hail to the Thief was like an almost hour long Paranoid Android - gloomy, tense, frantic, aggressive, muscular, unpredictable and complex, then In Rainbows is like a forty-minute long No Surprises - relaxed, dreamy, delicate, sweet, lush and hypnotic, even to the point of being nearly comatose (Videotape). No surprises here indeed, as In Rainbows is Radiohead's most user-friendly record since The Bends, or perhaps even Pablo Honey, and is very likely to appeal to the part of their fanbase that felt estranged upon the release of Kid A and Amnesiac. However, after a few listens the album opens up and shows its true beauty, which lies in lush multi-layered textures, intricate details and Yorke's almost embarrassingly earnest lyrics (once you're able to decipher them). All in all it's a great record. Is it Radiohead's best? Only time can tell. For now it will suffice to say that it's another solid output by the most important band of this generation. A must-hear for any music lover.… Expand
  63. krismp
    Dec 31, 2007
    10
    I just feel like i can listen to this album all day long and never get bored or tired. Its a simply album made with so much deep in it.
  64. JR
    Oct 23, 2007
    8
    I don't know what's wrong with the people who didn't give this album the same score I did. But they are not like me and therefore must have something wrong with them. Why people have different impressions of something when it is clearly easily categorized in the world-view affirming context of my own ego is beyond me. All of you people who gave this album scores other than I don't know what's wrong with the people who didn't give this album the same score I did. But they are not like me and therefore must have something wrong with them. Why people have different impressions of something when it is clearly easily categorized in the world-view affirming context of my own ego is beyond me. All of you people who gave this album scores other than 8 need to get a grip on reality and rate things the same way I do. Oh, by the way, I like the album.… Expand
  65. Jerc.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    This is the best album from this band
  66. TravisM.
    Dec 31, 2007
    10
    Easily the best album of 2007. Perhaps of this decade.
  67. Simon
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    Best album of the decade!
  68. StuartG.
    Oct 23, 2007
    9
    In every way it's a masterpiece.
  69. RonaldL.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    An album that starts off great and continues to get better with every listen. The Nude - All I Need sequence is one of the best things I have heard in quite some time. There is a lot going on here, and I can't wait to continue to unpack it over the next few weeks. Though I do like the live version of Videotape better, the album version is certainly a haunting send off that captures, An album that starts off great and continues to get better with every listen. The Nude - All I Need sequence is one of the best things I have heard in quite some time. There is a lot going on here, and I can't wait to continue to unpack it over the next few weeks. Though I do like the live version of Videotape better, the album version is certainly a haunting send off that captures, I think, the spectrum of darker emotions that embodies the album. Well done, Radiohead.… Expand
  70. KeilS.
    Oct 24, 2007
    8
    Yet another wonderful album from an always engaging band.
  71. ThomasM
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    the way in which Radiohead have progressed from album to album is something I have never seen except in the Beatles, culminating in their latest album In Rainbows. There is no way any other band in the world right now could put together 10 better songs to put on an album, there is no question about it, there is no argument, no one else in the present is even close to their work. Album of the way in which Radiohead have progressed from album to album is something I have never seen except in the Beatles, culminating in their latest album In Rainbows. There is no way any other band in the world right now could put together 10 better songs to put on an album, there is no question about it, there is no argument, no one else in the present is even close to their work. Album of the year, for its magic, its coherence, and its delivery.… Expand
  72. HuskerD.
    Oct 24, 2007
    8
    I have been listening to this album for the better part of 2 days, and I seem to want to go back and listen to it again. Lyrically, it doesn't seem as complex as OK and Kid, but musically, there isn't a weak moment on here. This is one of the more understated albums they have made, and actually has a flow to it that makes you avoid going to the skip function. This may not be a I have been listening to this album for the better part of 2 days, and I seem to want to go back and listen to it again. Lyrically, it doesn't seem as complex as OK and Kid, but musically, there isn't a weak moment on here. This is one of the more understated albums they have made, and actually has a flow to it that makes you avoid going to the skip function. This may not be a "classic", but definitely a strong showing from a strong band. As well, the marketing plan for this album is one of the most creative and ingenious moves by their part. It is almost a "thank you" from the band to all their fans who have supported them all these years. They probably know that most that have downloaded the album will turn around and purchase it afterwards as well, but to offer it at "your price" is definitely fan friendly!… Expand
  73. RobS.
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    I love this album, my favorite since OK Computer. though I'd just like to say that the fact there's people here claiming it's a masterpiece and their best yet, and people saying it's awful and over rated just goes to prove that music is subjective, and that criticism of it is pretty damn pointless
  74. MW.
    Oct 24, 2007
    9
    This album is their best since OK Computer.
  75. ChrisD.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    This is what music is all about. The intensity and emotion on these tracks really sucks you in. This is my first Radiohead album, I've got a few of their popular songs from other albums, like "Creep" and "Karma Police", but I've never gotten a whole album before. There are few albums that I love every single song (Train's "Drops of Jupiter" and Vertical Horizon's This is what music is all about. The intensity and emotion on these tracks really sucks you in. This is my first Radiohead album, I've got a few of their popular songs from other albums, like "Creep" and "Karma Police", but I've never gotten a whole album before. There are few albums that I love every single song (Train's "Drops of Jupiter" and Vertical Horizon's "Everything You Want" are the only two I can think of), but this is one of them. Bodysnatchers is just an awesome song, a great rock-out song. I fell in love with this album when it transitioned from that song to "Nude", a completely different song stylistically from Bodysnatchers. I paid $9 for the album, and it was more than worth it.… Expand
  76. DeboraD
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    It sounds nothing like anything they've done before... But just as brilliant as
  77. MikeA
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    Holy crap this is a brilliant album. I never really listened to Radiohead before but after hearing this Im finding as many as thier older songs as I can! "All I Need" is honestly one of the best songs I have EVER heard in my life.
  78. JasonM.
    Dec 8, 2007
    10
    Bought it at 10am and have been listening to it non-stop since then. It is now 9pm. No other album has had this effect on me since Disintegration by The Cure and that
  79. ThomG.
    Dec 8, 2007
    10
    On In Rainbows, Radiohead have eschewed the cluttered sound of the somewhat underwhelming Hail to the Thief in favor of a more organic sound. Electronics are still present, but here they are used to create space and ambience rather than drive the songs. The album carries a deep sense of loneliness, but has none of the angst of Pablo Honey or The Bends. It's easily their most mature On In Rainbows, Radiohead have eschewed the cluttered sound of the somewhat underwhelming Hail to the Thief in favor of a more organic sound. Electronics are still present, but here they are used to create space and ambience rather than drive the songs. The album carries a deep sense of loneliness, but has none of the angst of Pablo Honey or The Bends. It's easily their most mature album yet, as well as one of their strongest.… Expand
  80. RaulL
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    The first masterpiece of the century!
  81. Bryanw
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    Great effects , mix, voice, and new style.
  82. TimmyB
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    Perfection. I have been a Radiohead fan for several years now, and I always used to go back and forth on which album was my favorite: Kid A or OK Computer. Even though music is subjective and one's own interest can vary, if you truly understand this band of immense musicianship and talent, then you know this is their best album to date. I cannot even believe that I am about to make Perfection. I have been a Radiohead fan for several years now, and I always used to go back and forth on which album was my favorite: Kid A or OK Computer. Even though music is subjective and one's own interest can vary, if you truly understand this band of immense musicianship and talent, then you know this is their best album to date. I cannot even believe that I am about to make this statement, but I am: In Rainbows makes Kid A appear to be incomplete. I understand many die-hard Radiohead fans will disagree with this stance, but there is absolutely no way you can argue that Thom Yorke's voice is at his best on Kid A. In Rainbows truly is a hybrid of the best elements of OK Computer and Kid A (that is saying a hell of alot). I just feel that this is their most natural, beautiful, and complete album they have ever released. When I listen to it, I never want to skip a track because it is like they are telling me a story. Kid A is absolutely brilliant in its own right, but tracks like Treefingers and In Limbo do not stack up to any of the ones on In Rainbows. I must say that I am biased to In Rainbows because I feel Thom Yorke has the best voice in music today, and you hear him at his best on every song. This definitely is another masterpiece from guys who strive for perfection. This is BY FAR the best album of 2007 and possibly the best of the 21st century. I read one of the reviews on this site that said this album is great but never reaches a climax. That is absurd. You guys will know what I mean when I say that I have a one word response to that claim: Reckoner.… Expand
  83. JohnB
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    I'm not sure that Dusted Magazine thought it was a 4/10, surely? Album of the year!
  84. ashmall
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    cool
  85. joser
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    WOW!!! That was all I could say when I first heard this album. I then picked up the phone to inform everyone I know that appreciates good music. Get this album ASAP!
  86. JamesMcD
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    one of the best bands ever
  87. GC
    Jan 13, 2008
    10
    Amazing, top notch... took the standards to an all new level!
  88. BenT
    Jan 17, 2008
    10
    A beautiful, sprawling sound scape. They recall all their greatest moments. The good old britrock days (Bodysnatchers), to the haunting Ok Computer (Videotape), and the revolutionary Kid A (All I Need). Heck, they even through in some Hail to the Thief (15 Step). To quote krzysztof ziewacz, "Launched me into space". Exactly
  89. RX
    Oct 19, 2008
    9
    For a while I was with a lot of the people giving this 5's and 6's, thinking it seems a little bland and easy-going. But something clicked at one point, and In Rainbows just started flowing like silk. For me, despite it's high reviews, Hail to the Thief was a real letdown. A lot of it sounded disjointed, angry and cynical... a band that was exhausted of ideas and not For a while I was with a lot of the people giving this 5's and 6's, thinking it seems a little bland and easy-going. But something clicked at one point, and In Rainbows just started flowing like silk. For me, despite it's high reviews, Hail to the Thief was a real letdown. A lot of it sounded disjointed, angry and cynical... a band that was exhausted of ideas and not particularly enjoying music-making anymore. I was worried Thom Yorke was getting a bit far up his arse about the environment and all that before this release. Thankfully, In Rainbows largely avoids all this political bollux, and they have concentrated on making music (as lame as this sounds) 'from the heart'. In Rainbows does not have any soaring guitar solos or dark electronic noodlings. It seems well textured and multi-layered instead and, though it's hard to explain why, I think lyrically this is one of the band's best yet. I can still see why some deem it average, but for me the album eventually broke through. I'm not a Radiohead nut by any means but many bands that go this long seem to slowly shrivel up and die after a while. I thought this would happen here after Hail to The Thief but it hasn't. The whole point in this lame, corny message is just to say if you are disappointed by this release on first few impressions... there is something much deeper here that's worth sticking around for.… Expand
  90. FlorusG.
    Jan 26, 2008
    10
    Just a good way to survive and concur the world. Radiohead did it again. Thanks.
  91. TM.
    Jan 27, 2008
    8
    It's Radiohead but not much else.
  92. RickyD.
    Jan 29, 2008
    10
    Beautiful work!! It comes at no better time, because I was in desperate need of an album like this. Its refreshing to hear Radiohead take a different approach with "In Rainbows". Thank you Radiohead!
  93. DaveB.
    Jan 30, 2008
    10
    I love Radiohead. I can't say they've ever recorded a "bad" record. This one, however, is awesome. Just when I think they are going in a slower, more trippy musical direction, they change course again with something new.
  94. JulM.
    Jan 6, 2008
    10
    They are back and reloaded.
  95. Justin
    Jan 6, 2008
    7
    As with OKC and Kid A, my inability to find words to describe their brilliance is countered by my inability to describe where In Rainbows lacks. The best I can do for our generation's Beatles: It's good enough.
  96. ArmandoO.
    Oct 7, 2008
    10
    Not a doubt....it is an exciting, beautiful and emotional work that surpases all their previous works. An instant classic that will be regarded as the "Dark Side of The Moon" of this decade. They have taken so much distance from the rest of the bands, as their sound has become unique. Can't wait for the next album.
  97. Aniruddha
    Jan 9, 2008
    10
    well its RADIOHEAD... easily the best album of the year... one of the best albums ever.
  98. TomP
    Jan 9, 2008
    10
    This is, without a doubt, among Radioheads best work, if not their best work. Yet again, Radiohead has incorporated many of their past sounds and reinvented themselves into an amazing (though possibly difficult to truly get) sound. In my opinion this is their best work since OK computer, and mabye even better than that. But just alittle adivice, if you're new to this CD, listen to it This is, without a doubt, among Radioheads best work, if not their best work. Yet again, Radiohead has incorporated many of their past sounds and reinvented themselves into an amazing (though possibly difficult to truly get) sound. In my opinion this is their best work since OK computer, and mabye even better than that. But just alittle adivice, if you're new to this CD, listen to it several times before giving your input, because if you're sitting there and saying to yourself, what the hell? (As I was) After about the third listen things sort of fall into place and you won't be dissapointed. The only song that I felt fell short, and denies In Rainbows complete perfection was their closing track. Everything else is stunning. (Personal favorite: Jigsaw Falling Into Place)… Expand
  99. SamS.
    Feb 15, 2008
    8
    The band seems to have finally folded under the hysterical pressure of the music press and rigid rock fans that can't distinguish quality from familiarity to produce a generic rock album. It's well crafted, masterfull, and boring
  100. GeoffreyG.
    Feb 16, 2008
    10
    Ben W., I'm not a Radiohead fanboy. I don't like OK Computer that much, I didn't get into Radiohead before In Rainbows, but honestly, it is one of the finest albums I have ever listened to not just in the last year, but in my life.
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best Album of 2007
1
#1 Most Discussed Album of 2007
1
#1 Most Shared Album of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 42 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 42
  3. Negative: 0 out of 42
  1. BBC collective
    90
    In Rainbows really does present Radiohead at their most full-blooded and confident.
    Read full review
  2. Billboard
    80
    Overall, the material feels more human, more honest, more assured.
    Read full review
  3. Dot Music
    80
    Happily, In Rainbows is pretty, pretty good.
    Read full review
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