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. seanm
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    Without a doubt this next to only OKcomputer as Radioheads most consistent and earnest album.
  2. MrE
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    regresando el espacio vacio que siempre le has pertenecido..
  3. KarthikJ
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    probably their best album since OK Computer
  4. ToddC
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    Simply brilliant! Wonderfully layered and unique. Simultaneously glum and hopeful throughout. Can't wait till the physical CD comes out!
  5. JonathanW.
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    from release to listen and to listen again...it simply is a wonderful gift and a time when such gifts are hard to come by.
  6. JoshF
    Oct 15, 2007
    8
    In Rainbows definitely merits multiple listens, for it reveals its beauty in layers. I'm not floored by it like I wanted to be, but I like it nonetheless. Radiohead are like the Simpsons to me, in that even a less-than-stellar release is better than the majoirty of other things being released.
  7. PatricioC.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Great album! Bye bye recording industry!
  8. AndrewC
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Best Radiohead album since Kid A. What kind of crack was the reviewer from Dusted smoking?
  9. AdamW
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    I can only liken this album to a perfect game in baseball. There might only be 28 or so EVER that are even close to this good. It's the masterpeice of the decade so far. Anyone that gives this album anything less than perfect, should seriously question the health of their ears. I'd say it's worth at least $13.
  10. NelsonB.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    ....paralyzing.
  11. StevenM.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Consistently good all throughout. Radiohead at their best and this is only the first half. From the songs I've heard from the 2nd half of the album we are all in for another treat.
  12. EricS.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    I think that whoever gave this album 40/100 needs to be assassinated.
  13. yofredm.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    This is the least abrasive and most ear-friendly album since the bends. Very accessible. It almost seems like the challenge of listening to radiohead is missing, but its not, because I doubt any other band can deliver music of this caliber.
  14. Anonymous
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Wow. This album was amazing. From the fun 15 step to the beautiful Videotape, this album progressed smoothly containing some of the best radiohead songs i've heard. I wanted more songs after Videotape. I guess i'll just have to wait until december third when the second half comes out.
  15. Richard
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    An amazingly beautiful album. So far my favorite songs are Reckoner, Wierd Fishes/Arpeggi, Jigsaw Falling into Place, and Bodysnatchers. I would say the weakest song on the album is either Faust Arp or House of Cards, but I will have to listen to those some more.
  16. allen
    Oct 16, 2007
    6
    I'm really suprised at all the gushing for this album! I'm a huge Radiohead fan, and I do think this is a good ablum. However, I'm slighlty perplexed by the "best album ever made" and "best radiohead album ever". Seriously? Please! Again, this is a good record, but better than OK Computer and/or Kid A? Not a chance.
  17. Aaron
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    best Radiohead album since Kid A
  18. GlenG
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    A shimmery, glittering, diaphanous masterpiece, layer upon subtle layer building into an incredible endproduct that I just can't get my ears off of. Everything that Radiohead ever has been, synthesized into something new and nothing short of gorgeous to listen to... again, and again, and again. Personally, it's already supplanted Kid A as my favorite of theirs.
  19. stevej.
    Oct 16, 2007
    1
    I guess I just continue to not get it... I guess Radiohead just isn't for me, but why is that you can get a guy to mumble into a microphone with largely disconnected melodies behind him and directionless, repetitive musical blips layered in and it's called genius? Lyrics? Hmmm... incoherent psychobabble. Must also be genius. Radiohead albums just continue to feel to me self I guess I just continue to not get it... I guess Radiohead just isn't for me, but why is that you can get a guy to mumble into a microphone with largely disconnected melodies behind him and directionless, repetitive musical blips layered in and it's called genius? Lyrics? Hmmm... incoherent psychobabble. Must also be genius. Radiohead albums just continue to feel to me self indulgent, devoid of energy, and unjustifiably revered.… Expand
  20. 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.
  21. carld.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Best since OK Computer ,heart warming
  22. PaulD.
    Oct 16, 2007
    4
    I know Radiohead will always be critical darlings (see above) but, even as a diehard fan, I can only describe this album as a directionless drone. I never thought an album would make me yearn for the pop sensibilities of Amnesiac. Glad I only payed a fiver.
  23. 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.
  24. BP
    Oct 16, 2007
    8
    No big deal, Kid A is still their best.
  25. 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
  26. Sam
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Beautiful.
  27. ElvisP.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    In Rainbows and Kid A are the best albuns of the decade!!!
  28. 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.
  29. AndrejsB.
    Oct 16, 2007
    1
    I am (was?) a huge fan of Radiohead, but this particular album sounds as a mediocre collection of B-sides penned by Coldplay (in other words, bad). Each time I listen to the album, this is exactly what I find myself thinking. The melodies are really weak and forgettable - those are the same two chords everybody else uses, and if their previous albums had these two chords plus something I am (was?) a huge fan of Radiohead, but this particular album sounds as a mediocre collection of B-sides penned by Coldplay (in other words, bad). Each time I listen to the album, this is exactly what I find myself thinking. The melodies are really weak and forgettable - those are the same two chords everybody else uses, and if their previous albums had these two chords plus something Radiohead-ish, which made the songs incredible, now this special part of it is gone. As if dilletantish melodies weren't enough, the string arrangements, which were supposed to be Greenwood's best work, are syrupy and standard and do not add anything to the tracks. Overall, the album is an unbearable listen and I frankly consider throwing away the CD I burned.… Expand
  30. 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
  31. pierreb.
    Oct 16, 2007
    6
    not bad
  32. 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
  33. 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.
  34. 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.
  35. 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
  36. L.D.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    mystically mellow...
  37. 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.
  38. 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
  39. izzyj.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    everything in its right place. exceeded my expectations. warm.
  40. 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.
  41. 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!
  42. NicholasM.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Best album not only of this year but since Kid A, easily, fantastic albuim.
  43. 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.
  44. 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.
  45. 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!!!!!
  46. 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
  47. Jones
    Oct 17, 2007
    0
    Sounds like Moby mixed with Amnesiac. Highly overrated and lacking contrast.
  48. 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!
  49. OctavianI.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Great album !
  50. JuanR.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    simply amazing... Radiohead never fail.
  51. 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
  52. joelC.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    Something to enjoy for a long long time, Videotape is one going straight to the top 3 of radiohead
  53. Matt
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    This is why they're Radiohead and everyone else isn't.
  54. 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.
  55. 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.
  56. 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.
  57. baffleds.
    Oct 18, 2007
    5
    In Rainbows stands a good chance of becoming the most overrated album of the new millennium. I am simply *baffled* by the fawning reviews above. After OK Computer, Kid A, and even Hail to the Thief, this sounds like the result of a weekend jam at Nigel's place. How can it have escaped so many ears that these songs are nothing more than dressed-up riffs? And how can so many critics In Rainbows stands a good chance of becoming the most overrated album of the new millennium. I am simply *baffled* by the fawning reviews above. After OK Computer, Kid A, and even Hail to the Thief, this sounds like the result of a weekend jam at Nigel's place. How can it have escaped so many ears that these songs are nothing more than dressed-up riffs? And how can so many critics and fans have been satisfied by these watered-down, adolescent lyrics: "I don't wanna be your friend; I just wanna be your lover" -- I might have expected this from Justin Timberlake, but not Thom "an airbag saved my life" Yorke. Can someone help me out here? I feel like I'm living in a rock and roll version of the Emperor's New Clothes.… Expand
  58. JustinH.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Brilliant.
  59. RobC.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Lush. Sparse. Beautiful.
  60. jacopot.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    GO THOM
  61. 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.
  62. 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
  63. 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.
  64. 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
  65. 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
  66. 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!
  67. AB
    Oct 21, 2007
    5
    I wonder how long it actually took to make this album, 3+ yrs since the last they must have been on vacation, but i dont blame them, although they should have stayed. Two things are working here, they've at least addressed that they are doing the same thing over and over, thats in the title, and they used the internet resources to cut out the middle man, that should continue. This I wonder how long it actually took to make this album, 3+ yrs since the last they must have been on vacation, but i dont blame them, although they should have stayed. Two things are working here, they've at least addressed that they are doing the same thing over and over, thats in the title, and they used the internet resources to cut out the middle man, that should continue. This album is boring at best, fun to sleep to.… Expand
  68. 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.
  69. 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.
  70. JonathanH
    Oct 21, 2007
    0
    Never thought I would say this of an album by these guys, its a piece of shit! This is not more terrifying than "OK Computer" and OK Computer was'nt even that terrifying. Personally I think "Hail to the thief" while a little bit patchy here and there, was this band continuing to improve greatly. So we were hoping for a more direct but also more interesting noise from them this time Never thought I would say this of an album by these guys, its a piece of shit! This is not more terrifying than "OK Computer" and OK Computer was'nt even that terrifying. Personally I think "Hail to the thief" while a little bit patchy here and there, was this band continuing to improve greatly. So we were hoping for a more direct but also more interesting noise from them this time around. And would it hurt to use a guitar for a rhythm??? Well all I can say, is that this album, with its lame title "In Rainbows" is nothing but.......why can't these guys just write proper songs. I know they're not a pop band for crying out loud, but , thats what makes a great band, great songs. Not long compositions with no real gel. Ugh!!! Is music getting worse or is it just me. No, its getting worse!!!!… Expand
  71. edenc.
    Oct 20, 2007
    5
    Mediocre album... none of the songs really caught my attention. 15 step, weird fishes, and all i need were good but still not great... I don't get how critics simply rate an album high because it is unique not because it is good music.
  72. 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
  73. 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
  74. Bored
    Oct 20, 2007
    1
    This is by far the most overrated and overhyped album of 2007. Radiohead has a long tradition of making overrated and overhyped music and this is their greatest achievement yet. In Rainbows is a duller and more boring version of Kid A. I've listened to it many times and there's NOTHING memorable about this album. It doesn't grow on you, it does not affect you in any way This is by far the most overrated and overhyped album of 2007. Radiohead has a long tradition of making overrated and overhyped music and this is their greatest achievement yet. In Rainbows is a duller and more boring version of Kid A. I've listened to it many times and there's NOTHING memorable about this album. It doesn't grow on you, it does not affect you in any way either positive or negative it does nothing at all. In fact, if you'd remove the vocals some of the tunes would make for a nice background music to play in an elevator.… Expand
  75. 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
  76. 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!
  77. BitBurn
    Oct 22, 2007
    9
    I was never a big Radiohead fan, really. Although I have always been curious on what they are doing because no doubt they are the most avant-garde UK band ever. So, for the first time I was not disappointed at all. In fact, this is a monster record methinks.
  78. 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
  79. 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.
  80. 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.
  81. 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.
  82. MichaelP.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Brilliant - gets better with each listen!!
  83. BigSteveO
    Dec 20, 2007
    1
    For the second album in a row (3 if you count the Eraser), Radiohead sound like either they've lost it, or are just phoning it in. Iceage coming, indeed.
  84. 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
  85. 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.
  86. jigsaw
    Oct 22, 2007
    0
    Radiohead is always over-rated!
  87. carolR.A.
    Dec 24, 2007
    10
    Thank you very much RaDioHead!!
  88. 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.
  89. JohnT.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Nice trolling Jonathan H
  90. 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
  91. JohnJ.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    The best Radiohead album since OK Computer.
  92. 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.
  93. 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
  94. ReubenF
    Oct 23, 2007
    4
    Sadly, it is commonplace for bands to lose it over time. Most are one-hit wonders. Some manage a few good albums. A select few sustain a career among the best for longer than a decade. Radiohead are among the select few. However, on this album, they prove themselves no exception to the general rule. They have past their used by date. The end.
  95. 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.
  96. 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
  97. Jerc.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    This is the best album from this band
  98. TravisM.
    Dec 31, 2007
    10
    Easily the best album of 2007. Perhaps of this decade.
  99. Simon
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    Best album of the decade!
  100. AllanC.
    Oct 23, 2007
    5
    There is nothing wrong if you don't like this album as much as the rest of the crowd has. Sure we're a small minority but it's OKAY to be different. I personally tried to like this album. It's meant to be a grower but my initial opinion of this album was incredibly poor. I couldn't get myself to like it on about the first 10 listens. The album is a decent album There is nothing wrong if you don't like this album as much as the rest of the crowd has. Sure we're a small minority but it's OKAY to be different. I personally tried to like this album. It's meant to be a grower but my initial opinion of this album was incredibly poor. I couldn't get myself to like it on about the first 10 listens. The album is a decent album but I feel all this universal acclaim doesn't suit the music. To me the album isn't as close to OKC and pretty much I have to ignore the millions of people who apparently have very different tastes from me. Possibly the best album of the year by Sunset Rubdown is getting a 77. That's one thing I don't understand.… Expand
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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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