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. JosephA.
    Oct 23, 2007
    7
    After much listening, I personally am torn between and 7 or a 6. It is quite lovely to see Radiohead back, in some cases I wonder what the f*** went on about the recording sessions. Most of the tracks seem quite much like filler if anything, lush depressing romantic filler (as opposed to lush depressing political filler from Hail to the Thief.) Nevertheless, it almost makes me believe After much listening, I personally am torn between and 7 or a 6. It is quite lovely to see Radiohead back, in some cases I wonder what the f*** went on about the recording sessions. Most of the tracks seem quite much like filler if anything, lush depressing romantic filler (as opposed to lush depressing political filler from Hail to the Thief.) Nevertheless, it almost makes me believe that I am listening to a Coldplay record, in a mehish way. As such, the winners here are Bodysnachers, Nude, and Videotape with their Radiohead-esque melancholy. Sadly, when this album suck, it sucks hard. Especially concerning some of the other lyrics ("I am the holidays you choose to ignore," Thom what have you been drinking.) seem childish, selfish, and in some cases (despite the album's claim of being more user-friendly) unintelligible thanks to horrible balancing of sounds, drowning out Yorke's vocals. Granted, thought at first I regretted being short of change when I downloaded the album. (Which I believe has led to some review whoring, and I am saying this as a fairly ardent Radiohead fan.) I don't feel as conflicted due to the quality (or lack there of.)… Expand
  2. Simon
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    Best album of the decade!
  3. SoniaB.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    WOW!
  4. Jerc.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    This is the best album from this band
  5. JennieF
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    The most consistent, cohesive album my favorite band has released since Kid A. The most compulsively listenable since OK Computer. There has been nothing else in my cd player for a week.
  6. 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
  7. ThomasM.
    Oct 23, 2007
    8
    A good album. By no means the band's best, it seems that, given the length of time it took to arrive, and the method of its release, the press had already decided this was going to be great. And it is, but all these 'return to form' or 'best album since OK Computer' reviews are ignoring the fact that Radiohead made three interesting and diverse albums after that. A good album. By no means the band's best, it seems that, given the length of time it took to arrive, and the method of its release, the press had already decided this was going to be great. And it is, but all these 'return to form' or 'best album since OK Computer' reviews are ignoring the fact that Radiohead made three interesting and diverse albums after that. It is good to hear the band doing something different again, whilst still having a pop aesthetic, but it still is not as good as Kid A or Hail to the Thief.… Expand
  8. 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.
  9. 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
  10. StuartG.
    Oct 23, 2007
    9
    In every way it's a masterpiece.
  11. JavierF
    Oct 23, 2007
    9
    First This album is Great, the best music album of the year, is not perfect, is no "OK Computer" or "Kid A" but is a lot better than "hail to the Thief", I believe this is not the next step for radiohead but still the best album till now from 2007, this album has a core, a sense... this is not a Pop album if you want pop go and buy a Britney spears album for god's sake!!! and the First This album is Great, the best music album of the year, is not perfect, is no "OK Computer" or "Kid A" but is a lot better than "hail to the Thief", I believe this is not the next step for radiohead but still the best album till now from 2007, this album has a core, a sense... this is not a Pop album if you want pop go and buy a Britney spears album for god's sake!!! and the gentleman that gave radiohead in rainbows a "0" "music is not getting worse is just you..… Expand
  12. MarkK.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Awesome!
  13. RyanA.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Epic. I'm finishing the last song as I'm writing this. This album is epic. To be honest, it wasn't what I expected, but I think that was part of what made this album so good; it was a step, mind you not a large one, into their more down-tempo work. Sweet stuff. Go buy it.
  14. 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.
  15. jigsaw
    Oct 22, 2007
    0
    Radiohead is always over-rated!
  16. [anonymous]
    Oct 22, 2007
    7
    Another over-rated Radiohead album. The much anticipated In Rainbows changes pace with other Radiohead albums in the first few songs, then returns in pretentious fashion. A few good songs, but others like '15 step', 'Nude' and 'Jigsaw' that get old very quickly. The sound is a little dull.
  17. RobertV.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Amazing Album!!!!!!!
  18. DavidT.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    OK... Jonathan H? I have no idea where you're coming from... There must be at least one track you liked? No? Ok. For me, this is definitely a grower, just like every other Radiohead album. I can't believe these guys manage to come up with so much fantastic material! The opening few moments of the album are reminiscent of the Thom Yorke solo album (Another fantastic "grower") but OK... Jonathan H? I have no idea where you're coming from... There must be at least one track you liked? No? Ok. For me, this is definitely a grower, just like every other Radiohead album. I can't believe these guys manage to come up with so much fantastic material! The opening few moments of the album are reminiscent of the Thom Yorke solo album (Another fantastic "grower") but as soon as the guitar sets in you realise this is A-grade Radiohead musical diversity. Constantly shifting and changing this album feels so raw yet built up with layers that can be dissected whilst listening. Which,in my opinion is one of the fantastic things about Radiohead. While most bands use a stock string section with a simple chord progression, r.h fill their music with parts that would be equally as interesting to listen to alone! And YES it is just you! To me Radiohead embodies what is so GOOD about music now! The marriage of so many different techniques and styles of music to create something that is truly incredible.BUT i guess i have to respect your opinion! I just find it hard to believe there isn't ONE thing you like about the album so i find it hard to believe you can justify the 0.… Expand
  19. 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
  20. GabiorA.
    Oct 22, 2007
    3
    Radiohead prove further that they can release anything to critical acclaim with this collection of elevator tunes and indie electronic college crap pop. Even if you argue that maybe this music just isn't for me just look at the lyrics to see the lack of effort here. Every positive user review is hysterically identical "haven't creamed my pants this bad since OK Computer." Either Radiohead prove further that they can release anything to critical acclaim with this collection of elevator tunes and indie electronic college crap pop. Even if you argue that maybe this music just isn't for me just look at the lyrics to see the lack of effort here. Every positive user review is hysterically identical "haven't creamed my pants this bad since OK Computer." Either way, fanboys will be fanboys.… Expand
  21. GarrettR
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Not a rotten song in the batch--all songs are stripped of their illustrious excess leaving Yorke's voice to create the intimacy and fright not heard in the band in some ten years.
  22. SonnyW.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    I agree with everyone who gave this album a 10. It's a Classic in my world (and those of my friends, family colleagues and acquaintances) - a REAL record by a REAL band. I think the music speaks for itself and any music lover who keeps their mind open and gives it the attention it deserves will be rewarded with a positive experience. I just don't know how they keep doing it.
  23. 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.
  24. 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.
  25. 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
  26. GiuseppeM.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    simply the beauty!!! This is a perfect landscape of all our souls. Thank you, Radiohead !!!
  27. lawrenceh.
    Oct 22, 2007
    7
    Not bad, overhyped though. Aren't these songs outtakes from REM's Automatic for the People, recycled through laptop wizardry?
  28. conrada.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    astonishing album. they seem to touch on almost every type of musical genre while delivering an emotional yet powerful record. the band is at its best. his voice is incredible. they get better and better.
  29. 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.
  30. SoundsLikeShit
    Oct 22, 2007
    0
    Most overrated band of all time. Like Ok Computer this album sucks too.
  31. 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
  32. JohnJ.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    The best Radiohead album since OK Computer.
  33. Jack'sFriend
    Oct 22, 2007
    9
    Let's see that collection of yours Jack... Let me guess, you're a big fan of Tool/P.C., NIN, and QotSA??? Not that there is anything wrong with any of those, but often they seem to be viewed as 'superior' from those criticizing Radiohead. It is fine if they are not for you, but I am willing to bet there are some people her, presumably myself included, with much more Let's see that collection of yours Jack... Let me guess, you're a big fan of Tool/P.C., NIN, and QotSA??? Not that there is anything wrong with any of those, but often they seem to be viewed as 'superior' from those criticizing Radiohead. It is fine if they are not for you, but I am willing to bet there are some people her, presumably myself included, with much more eclectic tastes than what you currently have. Oh, and I forgot Puddle of Mudd. Now, that is some 'superior' song writing.… Expand
  34. 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
  35. JohnT.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Nice trolling Jonathan H
  36. MAUMEJEANP.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Awesome album as expected. The flaw is incredible. Nude is Radiohead emotional peak.
  37. IsaacR.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Truly amazing.
  38. [Anonymous]
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Best album ever!
  39. MyOpinion
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    Well like others on this review, I love it. Every negative review on here bashes not only the album, but also the people who liked it. Something is wrong with the hundreds of people who gave it good reviews, and the 4 who gave it bad reviews know music. I don't think so. This album grips you from the very beginning and keeps you interested through out. Better than OKC? I think it may Well like others on this review, I love it. Every negative review on here bashes not only the album, but also the people who liked it. Something is wrong with the hundreds of people who gave it good reviews, and the 4 who gave it bad reviews know music. I don't think so. This album grips you from the very beginning and keeps you interested through out. Better than OKC? I think it may be too early to tell for me. I'm going to wait for the second half on Dec 3rd to make that decision. IT IS right there with the quality of tunes we have always got from Radiohead. Greatest album of all time, na, But that is just my opinion, and if another person says it is, I will respect that view.… Expand
  40. 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
  41. kriss
    Oct 21, 2007
    6
    Well I'm going to be honest, I've listened to this about four times already and I'm not really digging it. I don't know if it is because this is a "grower" or whatnot (I love OK COMPUTER, but I'm not a hardcore Radiohead fan), but this being a Radiohead record I'd more than to listen to it a few more times, but this being the best record of the year and all Well I'm going to be honest, I've listened to this about four times already and I'm not really digging it. I don't know if it is because this is a "grower" or whatnot (I love OK COMPUTER, but I'm not a hardcore Radiohead fan), but this being a Radiohead record I'd more than to listen to it a few more times, but this being the best record of the year and all those 10s and 9s I see, I have to disagree with, though oddly enough I still say "Person Pitch" is the best thing to happen this year.… Expand
  42. 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.
  43. 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
  44. DanC
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    Dusted Magazine is clearly full of idiots. The best thing about Radiohead is that they do not write songs that are easy to digest. The beauty of this album is it's simplicity. Listening to In Rainbows is a completely different experience than listening to any of their other albums. Jonny Greenwood was clearly given the green light to use his orchestral skills and Radiohead have come Dusted Magazine is clearly full of idiots. The best thing about Radiohead is that they do not write songs that are easy to digest. The beauty of this album is it's simplicity. Listening to In Rainbows is a completely different experience than listening to any of their other albums. Jonny Greenwood was clearly given the green light to use his orchestral skills and Radiohead have come up with some of the most beautiful songs in their wonderful career (Nude & Reckoner). It's safe to say that this is a band who has not wavered. Thank you Radiohead for inspiring so many and having the courage to be unique in a world full of cloned, bubble gum crap.… Expand
  45. MichaelP.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Brilliant - gets better with each listen!!
  46. 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.
  47. 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
  48. 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
  49. JTryptophan
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Please stop asking Dusted Magazine for reviews when they clearly just phone them in. If they are interested in reading books then have them rank books. A 40 is just laughable and probably out of spite. In Rainbows is a beautiful album that is groundbreaking not only in it's musical merit but in the way it changed the landscape of music commerce.
  50. AdamSD
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    A very worthy successor to Hail to the Thief.
  51. 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.
  52. jv
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Subtle and brilliant. Their finest, most straightforward work ever. There is not a moment of filler here, and every single track is perfectly balanced and produced.
  53. RuaB
    Oct 20, 2007
    9
    This is the first time I have listened to a FULL Radiohead album and I was very impressed. Favourite songs are 15 Step, Bodysnatchers, Nude, Jigsaw Falling Into Place and Reckoner but I like them all really.
  54. Joris
    Oct 20, 2007
    6
    In the critic's eye Radiohead can permit themselves even plain mediocre tracks as Jigsaw Falling Into Place and the uninspired one-riffbased track Bodysnatchers, but in the end the unearthly beauty of House of Playing Cards, All I Need, 15 Step, Reckoners, the haunting Nude and Arpeggi make up for a Decent Radiohead album. Not their best by far, and not by any means one of the better In the critic's eye Radiohead can permit themselves even plain mediocre tracks as Jigsaw Falling Into Place and the uninspired one-riffbased track Bodysnatchers, but in the end the unearthly beauty of House of Playing Cards, All I Need, 15 Step, Reckoners, the haunting Nude and Arpeggi make up for a Decent Radiohead album. Not their best by far, and not by any means one of the better albums to have come out in 2007, but still solid.… Expand
  55. JoshW.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Elegant. Perfect.
  56. 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
  57. EdwardM.
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    Amazing.
  58. Ryan
    Oct 19, 2007
    9
    After over a hundred listens it is now clear that this is most likely their best album since Kid A, Hail to the Thief was a masterpiece in itself in my eyes but there is always at least one skippable track on all radiohead albums in my opinion, but not this one. Every single song is important to complete this. I can not wait for the b-sides in December, I saw most of those songs during After over a hundred listens it is now clear that this is most likely their best album since Kid A, Hail to the Thief was a masterpiece in itself in my eyes but there is always at least one skippable track on all radiohead albums in my opinion, but not this one. Every single song is important to complete this. I can not wait for the b-sides in December, I saw most of those songs during their tour and the were just as amazing.… Expand
  59. HitG
    Oct 19, 2007
    9
    Best work since Kid A. Radiohead have gone back to a more formal song structure, which provides for more listenable music. Not the breakthrough of OK Computer ot Kid A, but still a new direction for the band and one that I approve of. Remember, The Bends was not a groundbreaking album but an album of great songs that was a huge step up from Pablo Honey. In Rainbows is an evolution and not Best work since Kid A. Radiohead have gone back to a more formal song structure, which provides for more listenable music. Not the breakthrough of OK Computer ot Kid A, but still a new direction for the band and one that I approve of. Remember, The Bends was not a groundbreaking album but an album of great songs that was a huge step up from Pablo Honey. In Rainbows is an evolution and not a revolution.… Expand
  60. 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.
  61. JosephB.
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    I love this album so much.
  62. 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
  63. 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
  64. 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.
  65. DaveK
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    The most toe tapping emotive Radiohead album ever made...Trust me that's a good thing
  66. ReasonablePerson
    Oct 18, 2007
    6
    Disgustingly overrated. It's not bad album, but some of the comments here are absolutely insane...Better than OK Computer? Best album of all time? Perfect in every way? Give me a break for God's sake! Do you people even listen to any other bands, or do you just crawl out of your basements every 4-odd years to heap praise on Radiohead? Get a grip.
  67. 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.
  68. 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.
  69. AlexB.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    It's a great album clearly is the album of the year and a great return to form for radiohead
  70. Time
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    I can't possibly give a bad review to an album I can get for free. God bless Radiohead
  71. StevenD.
    Oct 18, 2007
    5
    Worst Radiohead album since Pablohoney. Pleasant enough in the blandest possible way. Clearly they're settling in for middle-aged rockstar MOR retirement, all obvious string sections, airy synth sounds and copious amounts of reverb. Also, the songs all seem weirdly simple. It's a pity but I guess hardly unexpected.
  72. Matt
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    This is why they're Radiohead and everyone else isn't.
  73. booms.
    Oct 18, 2007
    9
    as been said before - this is class... at good price - you like
  74. MichaelS.
    Oct 18, 2007
    6
    Apparently Radiohead is getting another free pass for making another album after OK Computer. Doesn't seem to matter what they put together, people will call it brilliant because Radiohead made one of the best albums ever made. For me, its mostly just a bunch of dreary, unfinished bedroom rock done much better by many other groups out there. If Thom and Johnny are into that kindof Apparently Radiohead is getting another free pass for making another album after OK Computer. Doesn't seem to matter what they put together, people will call it brilliant because Radiohead made one of the best albums ever made. For me, its mostly just a bunch of dreary, unfinished bedroom rock done much better by many other groups out there. If Thom and Johnny are into that kindof thing now, I say go for it, make your solo albums and reap the praise they will automatically come for them. I just wish that when the full band together they would pick up their axes and their drumsticks and rock me like they do on Bodysnatchers on a much more regular basis.… Expand
  75. quayh.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    best album of 2007.
  76. JuanR.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    simply amazing... Radiohead never fail.
  77. 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
  78. jacopot.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    GO THOM
  79. RobC.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Lush. Sparse. Beautiful.
  80. DanielL.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Emotional and darkness... Lindo, Radiohead.
  81. JosephKim
    Oct 18, 2007
    9
    Best since their Kid A.
  82. JustinH.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Brilliant.
  83. jasonz.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    This is starting to seem like their best album yet. I get the feeling that they are less afraid of pop music, especially based on Thom's latest quote on the blog. But this hasn't changed their obsession with making excellent and unique sounds. It just might make a little bit more sense to the average music lover than "Hail to the Theif", "Amnesiac", and "Kid A".
  84. 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
  85. MattB
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Who knew they had yet another brilliant album up their sleeve? More excited about what the future holds for Radiohead than I have been for over half a decade.
  86. johnn.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    simply gorgeous!!!
  87. darrens.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Brilliant album.
  88. [Anonymous]
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Best album ever!
  89. Francisco
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Thank you Radiohead.
  90. carlosm.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    album of the decade.
  91. MattB.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    A minimal, decidedly relaxed and highly textured album. In the wake of their recent love-them-or-hate-them albums, In Rainbows is the best thing Radiohead could have offered the world. And another thing?... It gets better EVERY time you hear it.
  92. IsaacY
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    amazing, cant wait for cd2.
  93. JamesW.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Combines all of the greatest traits of their previous work seemlessly into one masterpiece of album. Not a single note wasted.
  94. 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!
  95. StephenB.
    Oct 17, 2007
    5
    Radiohead is the most overrated band ever! They are a more boring, more obscure, but more experimental (for experimentalism's sake) U2. They are obviously talented, but maddeningly hollow. Sorry.
  96. 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.
  97. izzyj.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    everything in its right place. exceeded my expectations. warm.
  98. WilliamS.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    This album just gets better with each listen. An unbelievable achievement for a band who have released one great album after another.
  99. TravisW.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    Amazing record. Their most consistently great set of songs since OK Computer.
  100. DomingoB.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    With this piece of art, we don't need more music... This disc is the one...the one we all were waiting for... Now I can die peacefully
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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
See all critic reviews »