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. TedR
    Nov 17, 2007
    9
    The more I listen to Radiohead, and it is no different with In Rainbows, the more I appreciate their classical and baroque approach to composition and song strucutre. Thom Yorke might as well be humming the phone book. His voice is the flute, floating above, the cello grounding below. Like classical music, RH can sound deceptively simple one moment, messy and noisy the next. Then the The more I listen to Radiohead, and it is no different with In Rainbows, the more I appreciate their classical and baroque approach to composition and song strucutre. Thom Yorke might as well be humming the phone book. His voice is the flute, floating above, the cello grounding below. Like classical music, RH can sound deceptively simple one moment, messy and noisy the next. Then the subtle melodies, and bonus quirks, beeps, and hums sink in. No other music is so layered, so discovered in waves.… Expand
  2. MarkP.
    Nov 17, 2007
    10
    Miles above everyone else.
  3. BrennanL.
    Nov 16, 2007
    8
    Great marketing idea, but at the end of the day it is really just another Radiohead album. Thats okay though. I do like the more minimal approach here though. A solid listen and I approve.
  4. HT
    Nov 16, 2007
    6
    The album has 4, maybe 5 great songs, but, beeing honest, no more. That leaves more of the half of the album in the point of view of your fast-forward button. It´s a pity, Radiohead is a band that really cans doing much more better than this.
  5. ErichF.
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    Radiohead's best album. A true master piece. What else can I say? Please guys, keep doing music. You're the best at it.
  6. MuSauce
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    I instantly fell in love with this cd. Its brilliantly simple, and relaxed. 10!
  7. PeterH
    Nov 12, 2007
    10
    Brilliant and beautiful.
  8. JonathanC
    Nov 12, 2007
    10
    Without a doubt the most amazing album i've ever heard.
  9. JavierR.
    Nov 11, 2007
    10
    One masterpiece = rare (OK Computer) Two masterpieces = extremely rare (Kid A) Three masterpieces = impossible...but true. In Rainbows is it.
  10. BiancaH.
    Nov 11, 2007
    10
    In Rainbows is another proof for the thesis that you have to listen - and I mean to REALLY listen - to Radiohead artwork. Maybe there has never been any other band except RH that builds a huge iron gate in front of its music and hides the key to it deeply in people's minds.
  11. ChrisB.
    Nov 11, 2007
    5
    Every Radiohead album since OK Computer has been vastly overrated, overhyped, and over dissected by music critics, this one isnt any different. This time though, half the songs dont seem to lead to anywhere except some sort of hungover dream state.
  12. StefanoP.
    Nov 11, 2007
    9
    This album is wonderful! I am a great fan of "Kid A" and this sounds sooo different... (maybe someone could find it more related to "The Bends" or "OK Computer") I definitely love it and it keeps growing. It's so warm, so real, so full of energy and of emotions...
  13. TheRimRider
    Nov 9, 2007
    10
    For those very few musically backward people who just dont get them, you're really missing out on probably the best band since the Beatles. There have been other great albums by Pink Floyd, Velvet Underground, Led Zepplin, Nirvana etc. but In Rainbows has reaffirmed that they were not just a great band with a two year magical peak (96, 97). If your frustrated trying to decipher For those very few musically backward people who just dont get them, you're really missing out on probably the best band since the Beatles. There have been other great albums by Pink Floyd, Velvet Underground, Led Zepplin, Nirvana etc. but In Rainbows has reaffirmed that they were not just a great band with a two year magical peak (96, 97). If your frustrated trying to decipher Yorke's lyrics youre missing the point. Be carried away by his vocals and the music instead. Far and beyond anything anyone else has done for decades.… Expand
  14. ZachJ.
    Nov 9, 2007
    5
    maybe rolling stone has never heard "roygbiv" from the boards of canada's 1998 release "Music has the right to children" before they heard the song "all i need". i guess 9 years is long enough that when radiohead uses the same beat it doesn't sound like any other band on earth. boards of canada = other worldly
  15. 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!
  16. ChrisM.
    Nov 9, 2007
    10
    Far and away the best album of 2007. RJ M. , if you hate Radiohead so much, stop fucking listening to them. That sounds like a personal problem, and one that I'm not sure why you keep handling by listening to music you can't stand. And yet you claim to have such an extensive knowledge of their catalogue! How odd. Anyway, Phil Selway's never sounded better (this is coming Far and away the best album of 2007. RJ M. , if you hate Radiohead so much, stop fucking listening to them. That sounds like a personal problem, and one that I'm not sure why you keep handling by listening to music you can't stand. And yet you claim to have such an extensive knowledge of their catalogue! How odd. Anyway, Phil Selway's never sounded better (this is coming from a drummer) and Thom Yorke's usually cryptic lyrics are surpisingly lucid. I am no minion--I resisted Radiohead for 10 years before I finally came around. I don't listen to music because everyone else tells me to; that's for people who listen to Nickelback...or any other completely insipid, uninspired, cookie-cutter band that is constantly played by MTV and on the radio. Radiohead challenges every facet of the mainstream rock audience by telling them it doesn't have to be similar to be popular. Thank God for bands like them. Otherwise I would be stuck listening to condescending pseudo-critics such as yourself who believe that by dismissing a critically-acclaimed band they are doing everyone else a favor. I appreciate it buddy. Oh, and yes, I do take this personally.… Expand
  17. 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.
  18. joelC.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    Something to enjoy for a long long time, Videotape is one going straight to the top 3 of radiohead
  19. renen.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    first, RJM, shut up! second, this is by far their most confident piece of work since ok computer. a truly truly nice surpise.
  20. NemoM.
    Nov 8, 2007
    9
    A great Album. Every track is quality.
  21. AlexF
    Nov 8, 2007
    7
    It's a good album, but I expected more from Radiohead. It lacks that certain something that makes you realise that this is Radiohead.
  22. reckoner
    Nov 7, 2007
    10
    ha ha ha ha... RJ M. what a wanker. This album rocks.
  23. Ha
    Nov 7, 2007
    10
    RJ M, stop crying. I know its hard coming to grip with the fact that your taste in music blows. This album is pure genius!
  24. RR
    Nov 7, 2007
    10
    Beautiful, haunting, moving, incredible, totally impressive musicianship, fantastic ideas, at home between the avantgarde and pop, multi-layered, peaceful, gorgeous, heart-breaking - did I cover it all? Radiohead do it again. Thank you for enriching our lives with this, your best record. @RJ M.: you obviously forgot that one needs to be able to FEEL in order to appreciate music. rest Beautiful, haunting, moving, incredible, totally impressive musicianship, fantastic ideas, at home between the avantgarde and pop, multi-layered, peaceful, gorgeous, heart-breaking - did I cover it all? Radiohead do it again. Thank you for enriching our lives with this, your best record. @RJ M.: you obviously forgot that one needs to be able to FEEL in order to appreciate music. rest assured: we all know why we love this band. we understand what they do, we know what they're about. sad for you if you don't. now crawl back into your spiteful little hole.… Expand
  25. CharlesS.
    Nov 6, 2007
    9
    When I first listened to the record, it seemed to start well (tracks 1,2,4) but it finish kind of weak (7,8,9). However when I slowed down and actually listened.... I saw how well constructed the album is from music to verse. The craftmanship that Yorke and Greenwood display is uncanny. This is a very quiet and introspective record. It never ceases to amaze me that some of the people who When I first listened to the record, it seemed to start well (tracks 1,2,4) but it finish kind of weak (7,8,9). However when I slowed down and actually listened.... I saw how well constructed the album is from music to verse. The craftmanship that Yorke and Greenwood display is uncanny. This is a very quiet and introspective record. It never ceases to amaze me that some of the people who now criticize this record are enamered with Fall out boy and Artic monkey .....and they were still in @#%$! diapers when Pablo Honey came out. Please go back to your cookie cutter pop Junior, and leave the real music to the adults.… Expand
  26. Nick
    Nov 6, 2007
    9
    By far the best Radiohead since OK Computer, and thats saying something. Like most Radiohead albums i wasnt that impressed by the first listens, but as i gave it time it grew on me. There are some not so great songs, but when it has its moments In Rainbows is up there with The Bends and OK Computer as Radioheads best.
  27. UncleDougBigelow
    Nov 6, 2007
    0
    Over processed garbage. C'mon people, you're better than that.
  28. sethisawesome
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    Not only the best album I've heard all year, its one of the best albums I've heard ever. Even better than Kid A. And I loves me some Kid A. My heart rate actually quickened during parts.
  29. Grant
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    The first time I listened to this album, I admit I was slightly underwhelmed. But after repeated listening, this is may be their finest work to date
  30. BenW
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    I thought Spoon Ga*5 had album of the year nailed for sure - but this has blown my mind out. Best album since Funeral (2004). But lets wait for Grizzly bear's new one
  31. RJM.
    Nov 4, 2007
    1
    i'm so sick of people busting their nuts over this band. ok computer has its moments, so does kid a. but the rest of their catalog, including this one, is rubbish. Radiohead make pretentious, over-reaching, non-sensical crap, and because you all minions can't tell what the fuck they're doing, you go ahead and assume it must be brilliant. uhh, that's a little i'm so sick of people busting their nuts over this band. ok computer has its moments, so does kid a. but the rest of their catalog, including this one, is rubbish. Radiohead make pretentious, over-reaching, non-sensical crap, and because you all minions can't tell what the fuck they're doing, you go ahead and assume it must be brilliant. uhh, that's a little fallacious. listen, thom yorke proved long ago that he has nothing to say: his lyrics have always been, and continue to be, terrible...just terrible. phil selway, while we're on the subject of terrible, is also terrible. probably the drummer with the worst feel i've ever heard. i urge you to stop telling yourself that this shit moves you, and realize that it's a bunch of trash. there are or otherwise -- don't waste your time with this rubbish.… Expand
  32. MarkK.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    Awesome!
  33. DirtyT.
    Nov 3, 2007
    8
    An album built on moments, the brilliance and the frequency of which carry this piece of work far enough for me. Suprisingly soulful. This is about as upbeat as radiohead get.
  34. WilliamR.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    In 10 years when you speak of albums of the years, decades, of all time you will speak of this album. Perfect. Radiohead=Most important Band on the planet
  35. christopherk.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    DUH!
  36. DanielC.
    Nov 3, 2007
    3
    Terribly disappointing outing for Radiohead. Made me long for and choose their other material (any of it) over this rather dull set of songs. Sounds too much like The Rolling Stones meets Coldplay to be really considered anything at all. Every listen sparks more disappointment.
  37. IsaacAshe
    Nov 3, 2007
    6
    Ultimately fails to grab you by the scruff all the way through - a disappointment after all the plaudits I read before listening, and the genius solo work of Thom Yorke that proceeded this release.
  38. LizzieB
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    No words to describe the beauty of this record, just buy it! I've been a Radiohead fan for 12 years now and I love all of their previous albums, but In Rainbows has something special.
  39. MokaB.
    Nov 2, 2007
    9
    The songs, are layered and beautiful, unique and blend magnificently together. I've listened to this album 200 times, and some of its best moments come in the form of reckoner and 15 step. Best album of the decade, by radiohead, of all time! Yes. Oh yes. I'd put this one between Kid A and Amnesiac. Holds a candle next to OK Computer, Bends, or Hail to the Thief. And 15 step is The songs, are layered and beautiful, unique and blend magnificently together. I've listened to this album 200 times, and some of its best moments come in the form of reckoner and 15 step. Best album of the decade, by radiohead, of all time! Yes. Oh yes. I'd put this one between Kid A and Amnesiac. Holds a candle next to OK Computer, Bends, or Hail to the Thief. And 15 step is one of the best album opener Radiohead's ever written.… Expand
  40. DanielJ.
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    Incredible....the most beautifully haunting piece of music ever created. Yorkes vocals go great with the atmospheric guitar and dark bass lines not to mention the different variations of percussion.Q gave it 5 stars so do I anybody who gives it less than 4 is clearly a lunatic, I'd even worry about those who only give it 4!!!!!download it now.
  41. FaisalI.
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    Radiohead's best album. Enough said.
  42. JimL
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    When you grow up, you'll realise this was the album of the year
  43. KyleN.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Damn near perfect. A definite feeling of equilibrium and relaxation.
  44. JohnA.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    a great album
  45. bernardoa.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    It´s really great for my ears
  46. jp
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    classic
  47. BenR
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Quite possibly the best record of the decade, maybe even since "OK Computer". Grab some headphones, put on "Nude", turn it up, close your eyes, and enjoy.
  48. RicardoG.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    The best album of 2007, and one of the best >2000.
  49. ChadrickW.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Radiohead always deliver's a top notch album!
  50. markn.
    Nov 1, 2007
    5
    Okay - this just gets a pass mark because it is only slightly more listenable than the last three Radiohead albums - there are at least some melodies here. Thom Yorke is surpremely talented, but somewhere between OK Computer and Kid A he got scared of what he could do and he's been wallowing in pseudo-genius ever since. Even the new Britney Spears album (appalling lyrics and all) is Okay - this just gets a pass mark because it is only slightly more listenable than the last three Radiohead albums - there are at least some melodies here. Thom Yorke is surpremely talented, but somewhere between OK Computer and Kid A he got scared of what he could do and he's been wallowing in pseudo-genius ever since. Even the new Britney Spears album (appalling lyrics and all) is better than this.… Expand
  51. JackO
    Oct 31, 2007
    9
    One of those albums that divides listeners into hate 'em or love 'em factions, and they most certainly have the critics ears on this one, but probably deserving of its current rating, in my opinion. Physically, this album does not best any of their three masterworks (The Bends, OK Computer, Kid A), but it certainly equals them in tenacity and consideration. Moreover, what makes One of those albums that divides listeners into hate 'em or love 'em factions, and they most certainly have the critics ears on this one, but probably deserving of its current rating, in my opinion. Physically, this album does not best any of their three masterworks (The Bends, OK Computer, Kid A), but it certainly equals them in tenacity and consideration. Moreover, what makes this album an amazing accomplishment isn't the sheer brilliance of the songs, but rather the kind of album it is, when it came in, and what it means for a band that many thought were on their way to retirement. And by "kind of album" I mean a very different kind than Radiohead have done before. Whereas much of their previous work has dealt with inward seeking themes of self-deprication, loneliness, and paranoia, In Rainbows bends much of that into something that is comparatively accessible, dealing with romantic themes, and at times... downright bouncy. As for the band itself being overrated? I think you've got a few more groups to bash before you get to this one.… Expand
  52. Sergio|G.
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    The entire album its fucking amaizing, Reckoner Wow Beautifull
  53. 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
  54. TomJ
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    It's wonderful, a range of emotion, fluid with pop sensuality but true to their inate sense of the bizarre. Song deconstruction here has beaten the efforts of Amnesiac and Hail to the Theif, with Bodysnatchers, Arpeggi, and Jigsaw Falling Into Place each having their essential melody torn down with new harmonies over steady rythym. It's magnificent writing, and yet the best part It's wonderful, a range of emotion, fluid with pop sensuality but true to their inate sense of the bizarre. Song deconstruction here has beaten the efforts of Amnesiac and Hail to the Theif, with Bodysnatchers, Arpeggi, and Jigsaw Falling Into Place each having their essential melody torn down with new harmonies over steady rythym. It's magnificent writing, and yet the best part is there's something for everyone, and fans of pop, blues, electronic, and rock. I don't know where to place it in their pantheon of work, but it suits me as the best album of the year. Radiohead did again what we hoping, shock us.… Expand
  55. nickc
    Oct 31, 2007
    6
    The songs, while layered and beautiful, are indistinguishable and blend completely together. I've listened to this album 20 times, and I still can't remember a single moment afterwards except for bodysnatchers and nude. Best album of the decade, by radiohead, of all time? No. Just No. I'd put this one between Kid A and Amnesiac. Doesn't hold a candle to OK Computer, The songs, while layered and beautiful, are indistinguishable and blend completely together. I've listened to this album 20 times, and I still can't remember a single moment afterwards except for bodysnatchers and nude. Best album of the decade, by radiohead, of all time? No. Just No. I'd put this one between Kid A and Amnesiac. Doesn't hold a candle to OK Computer, Bends, or Hail to the Thief. And 15 step is the worst ablum opener Radiohead's ever written.… Expand
  56. Bryanw
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    Great effects , mix, voice, and new style.
  57. ashmall
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    cool
  58. JohnB
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    I'm not sure that Dusted Magazine thought it was a 4/10, surely? Album of the year!
  59. JamesMcD
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    one of the best bands ever
  60. JonathanF
    Oct 30, 2007
    5
    wow, definitley the most overrated band of life.
  61. 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!
  62. JonathanB
    Oct 30, 2007
    9
    Excellent album, doesnt quite exceed kid A through to hail to the theif, but this album offers outlandish riffs and is complementary to the ears.
  63. TT
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    Some of the people giving this album a 0 or 1 sounds like jellus Coldplay fans. Excellent record. Different from anything out there and anything they've ever recorded. It takes several listens to fully digest and to be fully appreciated. I hope this isn't their last record.
  64. BenM
    Oct 30, 2007
    9
    I've never been a big Radiohead fan except for Kid A, but this one definitely rubs me the right way. There's a lot of really pretty moments, and it's really nicely recorded. Not bad for $3.
  65. ColmanM
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    Chillingly beatiful.
  66. OlavJ
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    Excellent ! ..all of it. Still, think twice before listening to this album when you're feeling down ..it could just drag you further
  67. KeithR
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    Simply beautiful! - Soulful, lush. Right up there with The Bends and Kid-A, combining many elements of both offerings in a decidedly mature release.
  68. AnaG
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    No doubt, best album of 2007
  69. JeremyS
    Oct 29, 2007
    10
    WOW! I have never been disappointed with a Radiohead but "Amnesiac" and "Hail to the Thief" just didn't really do it for me in terms of being great complete albums. I love "Pyramid Song" and "Knives Out" on Amnesiac, but I questioned the direction and effort on some of the other songs. Likewise, on HTTT I liked the entire album but I really only loved "Sail to the Moon", "Where I End WOW! I have never been disappointed with a Radiohead but "Amnesiac" and "Hail to the Thief" just didn't really do it for me in terms of being great complete albums. I love "Pyramid Song" and "Knives Out" on Amnesiac, but I questioned the direction and effort on some of the other songs. Likewise, on HTTT I liked the entire album but I really only loved "Sail to the Moon", "Where I End and You Begin", and "Scatterbrain". The rest of the album was good and didn't really leave my CD player for the entire summer of 2003. Then comes "In Rainbows" and to be honest I didn't really know what to suspect. Well after my first spin through the disc I knew that this was one of the best Radiohead CD's I had ever listened to. There isn't a single wasted track on the album. It is like Radiohead took all of my favorite parts from previous albums and mixed them all into this CD. "15 Step", "Body Snatchers", "Reckoner", and "House of Cards" would have all been great songs on HTTT. Meanwhile, "All I need" would have been a great follow up to "Exit Music" on OK Computer. Album of the year.… Expand
  70. IainMacM
    Oct 28, 2007
    8
    One of the best albums of 2007
  71. AlexJ
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    Once again, they have done it. One of the best of 2007.
  72. SteveK
    Oct 28, 2007
    5
    Radiohead seems to draw their inspiration from those esoteric soundpieces that they usually play in Yoga-Classes. That doesn't have to be all bad, but I have a hard time connecting the music to these euphoric overall ratings they get. Therefore I can't help but think that this band is quite overrated.
  73. RaulL
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    The first masterpiece of the century!
  74. TheCritic
    Oct 27, 2007
    10
    Simply Put: best Radiohead album since OK Computer... All the tracks are great and what wasnt expected: Radiohead is continuing to evolve. Gone from the Kid A and Amnesiac sounds and even abandoning some of the Hail to the Thief sounds, Rainbows is driven by jazzy guitar, Yorke's vocals, and hardly any drum loops. GET THIS CD! YOU WILL NOT BE DISSAPPOINTED!
  75. JamesM
    Oct 27, 2007
    9
    Radiohead has been recommended several times over the years but due to my study and already large list of music i wanted to download i put it off. eventually, after seeing critics rave about In Rainbows i decided I'd download it. I see what everyones been going on about now.
  76. MarcoA
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    Just art. Beautiful
  77. AyrtonL
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    This is not simply a collection of songs. This is a lush sonic landscape. Welcome to the sounds of the future.
  78. 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.
  79. DeboraD
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    It sounds nothing like anything they've done before... But just as brilliant as
  80. AshleyP
    Oct 26, 2007
    6
    I tried, I really tried to like this. Their last four albums have been masterful. But In Rainbows, with its uninspiring sounds/chords backed up with stale rhythms, and monotonous, emotionless vocals (with a few momentary exceptions), does nothing for me. The album shows no signs of cohesion; it is thread-less, and uninviting. It sounds perfunctory and cheap, barely a step up from The I tried, I really tried to like this. Their last four albums have been masterful. But In Rainbows, with its uninspiring sounds/chords backed up with stale rhythms, and monotonous, emotionless vocals (with a few momentary exceptions), does nothing for me. The album shows no signs of cohesion; it is thread-less, and uninviting. It sounds perfunctory and cheap, barely a step up from The Eraser. It's been amazing decade-long adventure, but, finally, and inevitably, I suppose, they have let me down. It is all down to taste, I appreciate. After reaching a peak within a genre with OK Computer, they moved on toa new style. Now, I suppose they had reached their limit with the next 'triplet'. So, on to a new style. It is not to my taste.… Expand
  81. MikeB
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    Ignore the dusted review, written by a wannabe muso just out of college. This is an album of the year.
  82. happyhappy
    Oct 26, 2007
    2
    When Radiohead is good they're one of the 10-20 best bands ever, and are one of a very few recent acts to have produced more than three albums that are "near-classic" or better. But that doesn't The lyrics and concepts are AWFULLY cliched. No, SHOCK, the music here isn't all that revolutionary or innovative either (if you think it is, that just proves you've ignored an When Radiohead is good they're one of the 10-20 best bands ever, and are one of a very few recent acts to have produced more than three albums that are "near-classic" or better. But that doesn't The lyrics and concepts are AWFULLY cliched. No, SHOCK, the music here isn't all that revolutionary or innovative either (if you think it is, that just proves you've ignored an AWFUL lot of stuff), but lyrics about "Cheshire grins" and a "house of cards" are just STUPID. There's no other word for it. Radiohead is at their best when expressing the confusion of the modern world. Here they only express their OWN confusion. That's a distinction listeners can only hear if they aren't the sort of "mindless sheep" (another cliched term) that Radiohead has loved to rail against the last few years. None of these songs aren't about anything. But use them if you're the sort of person whose personal psyche NEEDS Radiohead to always put out classic albums, or who NEEDS there to be at least one classic album every year, or quarter, or whatever. Here "the Emperor has no clothes"--another terribly boring cliche that Thom will probably use on his next album. I gave this a 2. That means it's still twice as interesting as most other albums I've heard.… Expand
  83. MattD.
    Oct 26, 2007
    9
    Not quite as good as OK Computer, but is their best CD since that album. It is somewhat mellow, and not overly artsy - just finely crafted, beautiful songs.
  84. NicoleY
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    Just brilliant!
  85. AlexS.
    Oct 25, 2007
    6
    The Bends and OK Computer were great if a tad too pretentious. Kid A doesn't hold up even now and yet Aphex Twin does. Now there's this overly simple, horribly vague, and of course overrated record. The dynamic is almost never here on this record. The guitars are near generic most of the time. Sure House of Cards and other moments of some songs are pretty. But had they released The Bends and OK Computer were great if a tad too pretentious. Kid A doesn't hold up even now and yet Aphex Twin does. Now there's this overly simple, horribly vague, and of course overrated record. The dynamic is almost never here on this record. The guitars are near generic most of the time. Sure House of Cards and other moments of some songs are pretty. But had they released the album the Liars had this year, the reviews would've been even more acclaimed, I promise. And yet a more dynamic and well thought out record (like one by the Liars or something by Sigur Ros) gets much worse reviews. To see In Rainbows get reviews even better or close to that of The Knife's Silent Shout or M.I.A. is hilarious and inevitably seen to be as novelty.… Expand
  86. ChrisH.
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    So much smoother and less pretentious than OK Comp, the focus has returned to the music for these blokes.
  87. RogerS.
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    The album of the century! beautiful!
  88. ColbyS.
    Oct 24, 2007
    9
    At first listen, I was only impressed by All I Need and Videotape. However, like most of the best albums out there, this one's a grower. Upon further listening and delving into the beautiful idiosyncrasies, it's warm and dreamlike. Really quite impressive, and in its atypical minimalism, a true step for the band. Excellent.
  89. 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
  90. 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
  91. BD
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    Excellent. I was initially unconvinced, felt it was not their best work, but every time I listen to it I like it more. One of the best albums in many years.
  92. RyanT.
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    Listening to In Rainbows takes you from the bottom of the rainbow over the clouds and back down to earth at the end. Truly blissful.
  93. KeilS.
    Oct 24, 2007
    8
    Yet another wonderful album from an always engaging band.
  94. Marek
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    Upstairs on the right, somewhere there is a Magical breakdown of assets. I fïnally recognize them.
  95. DavidH.
    Oct 24, 2007
    6
    It's not a bad album, but it's just not that exciting either. Why do they feel they owe it to the fans/public to regress to their conventional rock format. Fair enough, the Bends was great at the time, but they are capable of more than that these days, as was evident in the fantastic Kid A and Amnesiac. Sonically, In Rainbows is closer to OK Computer than they have been in a It's not a bad album, but it's just not that exciting either. Why do they feel they owe it to the fans/public to regress to their conventional rock format. Fair enough, the Bends was great at the time, but they are capable of more than that these days, as was evident in the fantastic Kid A and Amnesiac. Sonically, In Rainbows is closer to OK Computer than they have been in a decade, but none of these songs have the depth or classic songwriting of that great album. I don't think Radiohead have ever sounded so MOR.… Expand
  96. DD
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    This album contains some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. About three of the songs hit an emotional chord that is equivalent to music from John Coltrane or Beethoven. Those tracks are sublime. The rest are very very high quality. I understand people who didn't like it. Most masterpieces sound awful the first time you hear it. A Love Supreme or The 9th Symphony by Ludwig This album contains some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. About three of the songs hit an emotional chord that is equivalent to music from John Coltrane or Beethoven. Those tracks are sublime. The rest are very very high quality. I understand people who didn't like it. Most masterpieces sound awful the first time you hear it. A Love Supreme or The 9th Symphony by Ludwig Van isn't the most accessible on the first listen. It took me 3 times to get into OK Computer. The first time I heard it I thought it was trash. Sit through the album a couple of times while you are cleaning the house or checking email. It will hit you and you'll weep.… Expand
  97. MW.
    Oct 24, 2007
    9
    This album is their best since OK Computer.
  98. 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
  99. JosephO.
    Oct 23, 2007
    6
    I don't think this comes close to the big 3 - Bends, Ok Computer, and Kid A. I wouldn't even put it in my top 10 for this year yet. I get the same feeling that I had when I first heard Amnesiac...slightly bored.
  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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