Kid A - Radiohead
User Score
9.1 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 447 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 420 out of 447
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 447
  3. Negative: 21 out of 447

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  1. Blurbtwndalines
    May 15, 2013
    10
    The greatest album of the decade? Absolutely!! Is it the greatest album of all time? It certainly makes a strong case for it. I've never heard in my short, but dense years of listening, a more perfect album. It blends multiple genres from electronic to jazz to classical to ambient successfully, and unites them together in the form of a traditional rock album. But this album is far from traditional, hell it's a far-cry from a Radiohead record as well, but it is an exquisitely weird and beautiful album nonetheless and stands as the most influential and important recording of the 21st century so far.… Expand
  2. Geologist
    Apr 29, 2013
    10
    For some odd reason, "Kid A" was the first Radiohead album I ever listened to. For not starting with albums like "The Bends", or "OK Computer", the average music lover would think that my reaction to Kid A would be mixed, or negative. Now, it's one of my all time favorites. In 2000, I heard of the monumental critical success of the record, and decided to give it a listen. Kid A is an artful album in many ways, blending alternative rock, jazz fusion, IDM, ambient and electronica all into one record. It seems like a hard thing to do, but somehow, Radiohead managed to pull it off, and create a near perfect record. Kid A is an album that represents a generation, the 60's had Sgt. pepper, the 70's had Dark Side Of The Moon, the 80's had London Calling, the 90's had Nevermind, and the 2000's? We have Kid A.… Expand
  3. AdamK483
    Feb 22, 2013
    10
    Radiohead's magnum opus and their most ambitious, risky record yet. It came at a time when the pressure to follow-up a monumental album was monstrous, and the result was this drastic change in aesthetic and attitude that marks the band's celebrated ideal of reinventing themselves on every new record they release. a masterpiece from start to finish.
  4. MetalMovieNerd
    Nov 6, 2012
    2
    There was commenter who said that "If you don't get Radiohead you don't get music". No, I get Radiohead... I just don't like this album in general. Now don't get me wrong, The Bends and OK Computer are some of the best alternative rock albums of the 90's. However people proclaimed this as the 2000's equivalent of Nevermind (by Nirvana) and that's just not accurate. There is nothing artful about unstructured noise and lyrics that have no meaning. And the worse thing is that this album is more successful commercially than White Pony by Deftones. If this album has more success, critically and commercially, than an album that has structure, character, and has some kind of musical/lyrical progression in it then there is something wrong with musical listeners. Now, if you'd excuse me I'm going to go and listen to some progressive metal, a genre of music that has actual structure and requires playing instruments.… Expand
  5. michael_b
    Oct 9, 2012
    10
    without a doubt one of the greatest albums i've ever listened to. the entire thing has such a great electronic flow and blends together so nicely. great to listen to on a rainy day.
  6. Kadeemluvmusic
    Oct 6, 2012
    10
    Kid A, can't nobody top that. Better than Rush, better than Coldplay, and better than Soundgarden, Radiohead brings the mixture of alternative indie rock and UK grunge to another level. Quite possibly one of the greatest albums of all time.
  7. shakersonic
    Sep 28, 2012
    10
    Rather than silly club synths, their use of electronica is proper. It feels artistic and sophisticated. It's an intelligent record. It's a masterpiece. Perhaps this is the best album of the last decade.
  8. federicobenny
    Sep 20, 2012
    10
    The best Radiohead's album of the last twelve years. Nothing more, nothing less. It's absolutely worth listening to it, but if you never liked them this album is not gonna make you change your mind. Haters are warned!
  9. katabatic
    Aug 24, 2012
    10
    No other album translates the social-personal issues of the human condition in the 21st century into music as does Kid A. It takes ideas such as global warming, capitalism, cloning, hysteria, depression, and nostalgia and uses wide-spanning genres such as kraut-rock, free-form jazz, minimal electronic, ambient, and post-rock to express them. The most fascinating aspect of the album is how liquid it feels: songs warp and splash into each other and, despite the disparate genre ensemble, the songs feel inseparable. To those of you who have trouble "getting into" Kid A, try harder. It's not pretentious in any sense. It takes some time to adjust to Kid A, largely due to its unconventional structure and minimalism. Just let it invade you because once your ears adjust to the frequencies, Kid A is endlessly rewarding and absorbing. Whenever I have the time, I pop my vinyl copy of Kid A onto my record player and just sit back and listen to it all, starting with the quirky keys and swirling vocals on Everything In its Right Place and ending with the analog splash that concludes Motion Picture Soundtrack. It's an experience worth the effort.… Expand
  10. Porcupine765
    Jul 30, 2012
    10
    This is one of those albums that grow on you. When I first heard this, I hated it... I strongly recommend this now. This is actually a quite diverse album, songs range from slow, percussion-less, moody songs like "Treefingers" through more standard songs like "Optimistic" to dance-able songs like "Idioteque".
  11. mrnice
    Jul 21, 2012
    8
    A strange blockbuster. Like getting a completely new yet intelligent perspective on the world you've come to sense in the same old light. I've always thought that the insecurities and pressure on the band was present beneath the perfect production, and it comes to draw focus from the sharp world-diagnoses Radiohead crafts so well.
  12. nicrax96
    Jul 15, 2012
    10
    it's like a punch to the face of rock at the time and it experiments with the best of the band techniques. from electronic to jazz sounds is one of the most strong albums of the decade
  13. gideonosphere
    May 14, 2012
    10
    i cannot describe this album accurately with words, but if i had to try, i'd say it's the incarnation of bliss. this is one of the three or four albums that completely warped my perception of music and pushed me into a deeper, fuller, greater appreciation of music.
  14. Ricko
    Apr 11, 2012
    9
    The follow up to the magnificient OK Computer marked the start of the next chapter of Radiohead where they moved from rock to progressive/experimental music. Not as groundbreaking as many give it credit for but Radiohead created one of the last last great albums of the 20th century with this. 10 tracks long, each one seems to belong exactly where it is - as the opening song says "Every in its right place". The title track Kid A is the highlight for me and is as good a track as Radiohead have produced. Optimistic, In Limbo and Morning Bell are the other highlights but this really does work as an album and should be listened to as a whole piece. A good mix of experimental touches but with good tunes driving it forward. It's a pity they didn't release it with Amnesiac as I think it would have been a great double album… Expand
  15. Meridius
    Mar 22, 2012
    10
    An obfuscation of the current, and limited, boundaries of modern music through the progression from 'rock' to 'electronic' music. Crisp sonic quality accompanied with shifts and mixtures of linearity and surreality; a playground of simple/easy and complex/difficult kinds of equipment mixed together. It doesn't claim itself to be 'experimental' but 'different' - which it is. Not something to be dealt with completely seriously or completely playfully, but with complete curiosity.… Expand
  16. gaussy
    Mar 2, 2012
    10
    When you ask people about the best 90's album, the most common answer is: "OK Computer". And they go beyond in asserting that also is the best Radiohead album. I'm not in agreement with the last affirmation. "Kid A" is a huge album that overcomes their previous recording. Since I first heard it, 6 years ago, I was impressed by it's peculiar sound, the experimentation, the quality, the elegance. It's a masterpiece! (for me, of course). Since these High School days it has becomes one of my favorites recordings of ever!!… Expand
  17. Magus
    Feb 27, 2012
    10
    Because I am rather young and I didn't actually discover Radiohead until a few months ago, I didn't get to listen to this album when it came out, when it was a revolution, but I have listened to their albums several times by now, and Kid A sticks out as the best album from the best band of all time. From electronic masterpieces like the title track, that is very emotional despite the electronic sound, to deep and sad songs like How To Disappear Completely, every song is special and means something to me.

    As for those who didn't like this album: Listen to it again. Trust me, this album needs time to grow on you, but as soon as it did, you will find out it is stunning.    … Expand
  18. j30
    Feb 1, 2012
    10
    Radiohead's Kid A sucker punches you with it's marvelous production, intense lyrics, sweeping (even distorted) melodies, and beautiful artwork. Three years after the great OK Computer I don't think anyone could have seen this coming. For better or worse this album changed the way people look at alternative music.
  19. Lacohfilho
    Jan 28, 2012
    10
    A perfect fantasy. Radiohead album created a surreal concept of eternal confusion in our minds. The imaginary and where least expected, "Everything In It's Right Place" takes us crashing to the beginning of a disturbing soundtrack. The best album I heard in my life.
  20. StaticBunny
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    When I first listened to this album, I thought it was entirely a pile of garbage. How could the greatest rock band in the world make such a horrendous processed electronic earwreck? A month later, I gave it another chance. Then I thought, "huh, this is alright. Wonder why I thought it was so bad." Then I listened to it for a third time. That's when my mind was blown. Radiohead had struck gold again. Only this time, they found diamond. This album is absolutely flawless, even if at first glance it's completely flawed. Just keep polishing the diamond, and only then will it sparkle.… Expand
  21. Manfist
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    Easily an album that helped shape the music scene as we know it now. With the leap from the critically and commercially successful sound of OK computer they made what in my opinion is the greatest album of the 00's. Absolute perfection.
  22. JPIngham
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    This is the greatest album of all time, in my opinion.
  23. Siriusfisherman
    Oct 26, 2011
    10
    There are many bands out there trying to create great albums, and there have been many great albums made. The 90's were full of these albums, OK Computer, Nevermind and the past decade was full of them as well, Funeral, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. All of these albums are classics, people will listen to them for years to come. However, there is really no dispute among music lovers that these can touch anything in the likes of Sgt. Pepper. It would seem that in the past twenty years, while a lot of the music was great, none of it could stand up to the effect that the brilliance and innovation of some of the all time greats had. Kid A however does stands out. Everything to do with the album is very unique, the music is very challenging and not influenced by anything mainstream, the lyrics are dark and abstract, and the most unique aspect of all, it was not anything anyone else was even thinking about making. WIth albums like Nirvana's Nevermind, there were multiple bands that were also trying to come up with the pinnacle album for Seattle grunge rock, but with Kid A, no one was even expecting anything like it to come into existence. This album truly is one of a kind, and whether or not you like it, its uniqueness cannot be taken away. No album had ever been made using all of these concepts from underground genres of music. It opened the doors for countless other artists thats music would have otherwise remained ignored and it created a new direction for more mainstream genres to aim at. This kind of album can only happen every so often, and Radiohead executed it perfectly. They took all of these ideas these other musicians had and created something beautiful. There is no other album in the last two decades that can be compared to this album, and for that reason Radiohead will go into history as one of the all-time greats.… Expand
  24. Pep_D
    Oct 6, 2011
    10
    Amazing album. It may not be the most accessible album (It took me a few listens to get into it), but it certainly is one of the best. Not like their earlier albums, but then again, every Radiohead album is different.
  25. ConnorK
    Sep 14, 2011
    10
    Radiohead continues being a great band by changeing their sound and its for the best. Bands have to evolve or they will become stale and boring but thankfully that won't happen to radiohead. Also this is my favorite album by them.
  26. lauramol
    Aug 7, 2011
    10
    A beautiful and dark album. Well worth owning. This intricate album continuously gets better with each listen. Amazing cover art by Stanely Donwood. One of the best, if not THE best, album since the turn of the century. The timing couldn't have been better for the release of this masterpiece. A CD that captures the paranoia and electronic age of the 21st Century as well as incorporating relevant political and environmental issues. Solid all the way through. Perfect for late at night.… Expand
  27. TheDaveHimself
    Aug 6, 2011
    10
    Along with Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, this album defined the 2000s. Thom Yorke is an unnerving genius. Probably their best record. Perfect for losing your mind.
  28. MistaDwarfjokes
    Jul 11, 2011
    10
    The sheer ingenuity and depth of the album astounds. I think many of its more vehement critics on this site have failed to grasp the allusions to apocalypse - and indeed the comparisons of it with our own world. "Cheap sex and sad films" bemoans Thom on the final track, seeing where our own real lusts lie. The music complements this beautifully; too many have been expecting straightforward rock. The fact that Radiohead can experiment with dissonance, glitch and extended instrumental techniques shows thier vast versitility as musicians.… Expand
  29. kman5473
    Jun 2, 2011
    10
    By far the darkest-sounding, most artistically significant album to be released this millennium. Kid A will go on to inspire millions of people around the world. This was the follow up to Radiohead's break-out record, Ok Computer, and WHAT a follow up this is! It separated Radiohead from all other bands and has redefined what music is. It's an EXCRUCIATINGLY difficult record to get into, but once you start understanding the point of it all you will fall so deeply in love that you'll listen to it over and over again for weeks. Try to connect to the lyrics; read the pitchfork review it explains everything pretty much perfectly. This album is what it sounds like to be one of the best bands in the world, destroy yourself, and then slowly put yourself back together and take the top pillar in most people's music libraries (at least for new music).… Expand
  30. Boosemo12
    May 25, 2011
    10
    It's a beast for sure, but one that will reward you with time.
  31. arov59
    May 6, 2011
    8
    If I had the choice, I would give up this album just so as to stop Amnesiac spawning, though I would miss great songs like Everything In Its Right Place, Optimistic, Idioteque and Morning Bell (which directly led to Morning Bell/Amnesiac, which was weak compared to the original, to say the least).
  32. Xavygravy
    Apr 12, 2011
    8
    I really don't know what to say about this one.
    Ok... so I can hear the creativity and effort that's been put into this record, and it is a cool mix of atmospheric sounds.. but that's all it is really - there are no recognizable words or any normal song structures. It's just sounds. But interesting sounds. You can listen to meditation/electronic music and hear almost the same thing. I thin    k people are rating it "best album of the decade" because it's so different that you don't really know where to put it. Well... it can't be 'perfect' really.. there are a handful of not so good tracks. But the rest are interesting listens. I'll give it props for being so different...… Expand
  33. Scraper
    Apr 5, 2011
    5
    I don't doubt the time and effort put into this album, wonderful technique, and ability. From an objective stand point though, if you're not shuffling through the gray streets of london, you need to put on something else. This album is to Radiohead as Something in the Way was to Nirvana. Not terrible, but I'd rather hear Dive. Get me?
  34. StJimofSuburbia
    Feb 22, 2011
    10
    Upon first listen I can see why old school Radiohead fans won't like this album, I didn't either. After a few listens though the album grew on me. Radiohead took a leap of faith here by making an album totally opposite of their past masterpieces (The Bends & OK Computer). This transition kind of reminds me of Dylan going acoustic. His loyal folk fan base was horrified and didn't want anything to do with him after that. Thankfully artists make music for themselves and what that is and what the fans want may be two different things. If artists just stuck to their roots we they would never be able to grow intellectually and musically. Kid A is a fantastic album and is well worthy of all the praise it has and continues to receive and "Everything In It's Right Place" is one of the best songs of all time.… Collapse
  35. zmarine44
    Feb 22, 2011
    10
    What an amazing album. I'm a rather big Radiohead fan and this is easily their best work. The music is phenomenal and experimental, the bass is out of those world and The National Anthem is brilliant. Thom's vocals are solid and the drums are great. The album progresses very smoothly. If you think of it as a concept album (a terrorist attack or a dream are the two major options) it gets much more interesting. Truly great album. However, the last track is one of my lesser liked Radiohead songs, but the rest of them are some of my favorite.… Expand
  36. mazky
    Jan 12, 2011
    10
    Beautiful from Track 1 - Track 10 (Yes, even Treefingers) Just as good as OK Computer musically. But it's the album, the order of the songs, that make it so amazing.
    Calming, Dark, Haunting and Beautiful all in 40 minutes.
    You can lay in a dark room and just get lost in its experimental, electronic beauty. IN-CREDI-BLE Please....     Please..... Listen.… Expand
  37. Vampire25
    Jan 7, 2011
    8
    Kid A is a very playful album. all sorts of musical elements in this album. Thom Yorke's voice soars high in this album. "The National Anthem" sounds like a track that is spiralling out of control. The opener "Everything In It's Right Place" sounds distorted, and "Idioteque" is like an electronic funk song that sounds amazing. All In All, Kid A is a very good album. B+
  38. mongoose_126
    Dec 29, 2010
    10
    In contrast to what many mainstream critics said, Kid A is, without a doubt, one of the greatest albums of the previous decade. Kid A might or might not have been groundbreaking, but it is certainly one of the most challenging albums ever to have commercial success. Kid A had no official singles or music videos, yet it went to #1 upon initial release. Kid A is more of a piece of art rather than being just another commercially passable album. It challenges you to hear what's on the album.… Expand
  39. Chaziltasm
    Dec 2, 2010
    10
    I am a massive radiohead fan. and this is there greatest album. Radiohead is my favourette band and this does not dissapoint. Kid A and Optimistic are my favourette tracs from this album.
  40. Cobweb
    Nov 19, 2010
    10
    This album is quite literally perfect. I can't honestly think of anything bad to say about it, except that Treefingers should be a little bit shorter.
  41. pumpkinmate
    Oct 30, 2010
    10
    An album at the forefront of its time & a complete work of art. The first time I heard it it was like nothing I had heard before. The influence of this album will resonate for generations...
  42. bernlin2000
    Oct 5, 2010
    9
    A truly wonderful album, with a few songs that probably experiment too far, and lose me a bit ("Kid A", "Treefingers"). A lot of these songs, though, still have a quintessential Radiohead sound, and the overall theme of the album is so different from "OK Computer". It feels like a natural extension to that albums feelings of being lost in the modern world of technology, with Yorke's voice now becoming part of that system of electronics, to great effect. For people stuck in the alt rock of "Pablo Honey", it will not be a very appealing sound. But those that loved the message of "OK Computer" will really get a lot out of this album, and it's among Radiohead's best.… Expand
  43. mhmusicnmovies
    Sep 7, 2010
    9
    An absolutely groundbreaking effort and quite a gutsy change of direction after the phenomenal success of OK Computer (1997). I actually think Amnesiac is a bit of an improvement, but let's be honest, with a Radiohead album, there usually isn't much room for that. A lovely record.
  44. lukeMUSEicLover
    Sep 5, 2010
    10
    thus album moves you from start to finish. it tells a rich story. it is radioheads finest and no album will ever top this. Some like Sgt. peppers lonely hearts club band and ok computer got close, to name a few, but not this good. A+ job. the best album ever.
  45. mpshea28
    Sep 5, 2010
    10
    It's ok if you don't like it. It's a piece of music you are either going to love or hate. It's not for everybody. This is my favorite album of all time. In fact, I think it's better than Abbey Road and Dark Side of the Moon. It is an album that truly lives up to the hype for me, unlike Arcade Fire's Funeral. Seriously, how can that album be in the same league as Kid A? It again shows that we all hear things differently.… Expand
  46. Kideoteque
    Aug 25, 2010
    10
    Everything truly is in its right place.
  47. SaxMan16
    Aug 19, 2010
    10
    To call Kid A a good album is an understatement, while not as diverse and as good song by song as its predecesor Ok Computer, Kid A may be better as a full collective album. Its one of those albums that it is almost required of you to listen from start to finish. While it is an album that definetely has a recurring musical theme, each song takes you to a different place, whether it be the chilling "Everything in its Right Place" to the near tear jerking "How to Disappear completely, to the anything but "Optimistic", to "In Limbo" which most certainly lives up to its name being confusing and without real direction (in a good way). Kid A while not Radioheads magnum opus, may be their most obscure, challenging, and most thought provoking piece of art, which it is nothing less than a piece of art.… Expand
  48. fcof
    Oct 15, 2009
    10
    After universal acclaimed "OK Computer" Radiohead turned out with a genius follow up... Of course they changed the formula, for better. Kid A is a representation of a worl-wide arena filler band, that turns out with their most groundbreaking still natural album to date.
  49. MoritzH
    Oct 13, 2009
    10
    Morning Bell, Everything In It´s Right Place, Idioteque three of the best radiohead tracks ever.
  50. ChaiseW
    Sep 14, 2009
    10
    Yes, Thom Yorke may be pretentious; yes, this album may be a tremendous departure from the anthem rock of OK Computer and The Bends; yes, it may be difficult to swallow the first few listens, but no, this album is not shit. Kid A redefined modern music, it created a genre of it's own by combining other genres from past decades. This album is essential, it is pivotal to all musicians who even think of creating a masterpiece of their own. Kid A destroyed the CD, but conceived the Mp3.… Expand
  51. SteveO
    Aug 26, 2009
    10
    Quite simply one of the greatest albums ever recorded. Not to everyone's tastes, but certainly to mine.
  52. LeahT
    Jul 28, 2009
    10
    Radiohead's third straight masterpiece after The Bends and OKC. Simply stunning - a grower for some. But can anyone here claim to have ever heard a song more beautiful than "how to Disappear Completely"? I challenge it. Radiohead takes risks and consistently redefines genres. No one's ever written anythinglike The National Anthem. Yorke is a genius.
  53. TannerC.
    Jul 17, 2009
    10
    The greatest album ever made.
  54. JordanS
    Jun 29, 2009
    10
    Words fail me. A pioneering, post-genre masterpiece. Easily the best album of the 21st century. Period.
  55. leighm
    Jun 24, 2009
    10
    The timing, the tone, and the music are perfect. one of the best records ever.
  56. NamaarB
    Jun 20, 2009
    10
    Easily, one of the best albums of the last 25 years, hell EVER? Radiohead, Radiohead, Radiohead... this album is nearly flawless... One thing I must say though... Treefingers seems to get a lot of filler talk thrown at it... NOPE! great song.
  57. DominicB
    Jun 14, 2009
    9
    Stunning album from the world's finest. Not a single weak track on this album (Yes, even Treefingers). It starts with 2 electronic masterpieces which sets you up for the rest of the album. Quality in every department. "How to Disappear Completely" is a stunning song and one of Radiohead's best.
  58. chrisn
    May 25, 2009
    10
    For everyone who's criticising this album, i would love to see you do better with the help of 5 other people. chances are you will never, ever accomplish anything close to kid a. that is why radiohead have the recognition and you don't. i'd rather it stayed that way.
  59. TKOFOX
    May 22, 2009
    10
    This album tells a story of simple men/women enduring complex ideas with johnny greenwood (etc.) composing the sound scape. Its brilliant. I wish more albums like this would come along. Until then.
  60. FionnK
    Apr 27, 2009
    10
    this is an album that any one who plays music should be proud of they didn't only push them selfs but music as a whole its just a shame more don't fallow DON'T DO WHAT YOU THINK EVERYONE WANTS YOU TO DO DO WHAT YOU WANT TO.
  61. JohnR
    Apr 20, 2009
    8
    A very good album by Radiohead but sparse in some parts which works for some songs and not for others. A great follow up to OK COMPUTER.
  62. TheConglomerate*
    Mar 16, 2009
    10
    Music from another realm. Highlight: The eerie penderecki-like strings and thom's falsetto on 'how to disappear completely'. Stunning. Listening to the Kid A transports you to another place when listened to closely. I agree though, if you aren't interested in either modern electronica, jazz, or classical music then you wont really find much to like here. You need to have your head outside a 'hits' mentality to appreciate this. Stunningly beautiful album. 5 stars… Expand
  63. OzzL
    Mar 6, 2009
    8
    A few great songs, and as a whole it's quite solid, but due to its lack of accessibility (took me a good few listens to get into it) I'd say it's one of their weaker albums. Although it's still really good.
  64. finul
    Dec 20, 2008
    10
    Arguably the band's finest album yet, a follow-up to the already fantastic OK Computer. The album's electronica edge lost them some fans, but the eletronica tunes succeed ("Idioteque," "Morning Bell," "Everything in its Right Place"), as do more conventional rockers like "Optimistic." The best album of the new millennium thus far.
  65. GrantC.
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    Without a doubt, the single best record of the millennium, and one of the best of all time. Radiohead could have easily followed up with "OK Computer" II, but they did what impresses me more than anything a band could do. They completely destroyed their already phenomenal (and at one time superior, only on "OK Computer") sound, and completely reinvented it. The guts to do that is unbelievable. It's not like Red Hot Chili Peppers' backwards movement from funk-rock rapping to melodic pop-rock, it was a risky movement, in contrast to their very safe move to more popularity. Radiohead could easily have ruined their careers with this album. It was a bold move. However, they did nothing near destroy their careers. Sure, they lost some fans to this abrupt change in course, but out with the old in with the new (and more intelligent in this case, haha) I always say. Through all Jonny Greenwood's magnificent guitar work, which is all incredibly impressive, I really think his mostly electronic synth work on "Kid A" is where he draws the fine line between being a great guitarist, and a genius. The whole album is a 21st century masterpiece. It honestly got me into liking electronic music (the electro-rock eased me into more pure electronic quickly). SImply, it's a must-have.… Expand
  66. SamerM
    Sep 30, 2008
    9
    This album starts with one of the greatest opening tracks of all time, Everything in Its Right Place, which sets the scene for a new, different Radiohead. Radiohead made something new, but it's also something as good as before, if not better. Idioteque is an amazing song, and the same goes with Optimistic. The only problem is that the lyrics seem like they were pulled out of a hat (which is actually how they were picked). Everything in Its Right Place seems a lot less epic when you realise Thom's saying "Yesterday I woke up sucking on lemons" while the electric stuff in the background makes sure everyone knows of this fact.… Expand
  67. NiallM
    Sep 10, 2008
    10
    With OK Computer Radiohead managed to break into the mainstream with intelligent and magnificent alternative rock. With Kid A they spectacularly broke out of it, seemingly much to the confusion of the mainstream press who in the two days they had to review it, really didn't get it. Anyway listen to it for two months and you'll realise how great it is.
  68. RobertW.
    Aug 30, 2008
    9
    Although, this album may appear challenging, cold and at times distant, it is the intricate and lively percussion effects and generous use of the ondes martenot, that combine radiohead's avant garde electronica, with their more popular alternative rock.
  69. DanH
    Jun 23, 2008
    9
    The aural equivalent of a James Joyce novel. "Treefingers" is weak for me, as is "In Limbo"; everything else is stunning. Hence the 9. If you liked this, get "Neon Golden" by the Notwist - its actually better than Kid A.
  70. mikec
    Jun 9, 2008
    10
    To give this album anything less than a ten begs the question, "Did you even listen to it?" This album is unbelievable, one of the best records ever released.
  71. LeeteF.
    Apr 18, 2008
    9
    A very nice album, but please. Admit it. It is NOT awesome when you've heard it like 40 times. First 5 times are random (except for opening track of course), the next 30 listens are incredibly entertaining and breathtaking. But then the album loses it's quality or whatever. Just like any electronic album does. The sounds don't last as long as proper instruments. Sry guys. Give this a listen, and then put on something like David Bowie's Hunky Dory, and you'll know what i mean. Good point about this being a headphones album in a dark room late at night. It is right now.… Expand
  72. NoahH.
    Mar 2, 2008
    10
    This album . . . wow. Like so many great albums, it took me a while to get it. I remember visiting my dad in Iowa and taking all day to download leaked tracks on dial-up. WTF was my first response. 6 hours later I have treefingers and hunting bears and I'm really, really scared. I get the album the day it comes out regardless and give it time, because I'm patient and respect the bands previous work. I went through the same process with OK Computer. Boy did patience and faith in the band payoff. Best album they've ever done (consequently one of the best albums ever). And man, the context of when it came out, how it related to the music landscape as a whole and specifically the way it fit into my life at the time is just inimitable. Oh, and I wonder what people who don't like the band are so afraid of? Such seething hate and disdain can only be propelled by immense fear. Of what I'm not sure.… Expand
  73. HC
    Feb 23, 2008
    10
    It's just so intense.
  74. ChadM.
    Feb 13, 2008
    10
    I find it annoyingly funny (if that makes any sense) that anyone who dislikes Radiohead, and "Kid A" in particular, gives a reason that always sounds like this: "I hate Radiohead, their fans, and Kid A because they are sooo PRETENTIOUS." Really? Pretentious? If you think Radiohead is Pretentious, then you clearly do not understand the meaning of the word (See the review a couple of slots below); Radiohead is the total opposite of the word pretentious. Not only does Radiohead shy away from the spotlight, but they hate it. And they deserve every accolade they get. Somebody describes "Kid A" by saying: "Comparing this to other albums is like comparing an aquarium to blue construction paper", which I think is a perfect way to put it. "Kid A" is truly in a galaxy of it's own; it's another world with no limitations, rules, or boundaries. The moment you start the record with "Everything In It's Right Place", those first synth notes roll over you like a mammoth wave of clouds and you are completely submerged into a new world. "Everything" then flows perfectly into the dreamlike title track. "The National Anthem" follows and bludgeons you upside the head like a sledgehammer with it's heavy bass line, horns, and saxophone fusing into some weird hybrid world. The calm "How to Disappear Completely" becomes one with the ambient "TreeFingers", which by itself it a preposterous track, but in the context of the album as a whole, it fits and makes perfect sense; and it's the calm before the climactic storm of "Optimistic". "In Limbo" feels like a nightmarish purgatory, with the final minute of the song sending you spiraling down the rabbit hole. Next is the apocalyptic "Idioteque", which uses electronica, drum machines, and eerie chords to create one of the more impressive Radiohead songs to date. "Idioteque" morphs perfectly into the gloomy "Morning Bell". But the very last track is where "Kid A" seals the deal; "Motion Picture Soundtrack" is staggeringly gorgeous, with Tom Yorke ending it with the words "I think you're crazy" and "I'll see you in the next life". Well...."Kid A", in one word, is a: Masterpiece.… Expand
  75. BenF
    Jan 28, 2008
    10
    To the anonymous poster whose post is a few posts below mine.....please try to be intelligent about your argument. What a stupid point you're making. You think Thom York is a pretentious pussy but you don't even know him. Are you easily influenced by the media or are you just guessing about how he really is? They do nothing original in Kid A? Haha...you can't be serious. Now I know this post must be a joke. You stereotype and say radiohead fans are pretentious. Please...try to at least act intelligent.… Expand
  76. RickB
    Jan 16, 2008
    10
    The album of our generation.
  77. BobR
    Jan 16, 2008
    10
    An album that will help you get into other great artists. Highly recommended
  78. StjepanP.
    Jan 14, 2008
    10
    I registered only to say that "Kid A" is not only best album ever but the best parallel universe dimension. I listened to it stoned and I traveled everywhere. Thanks Radiohead! And all these shitty critic are only closed minded people. This record changed my life. And did anyone catch how great is on repeat? Because "main character" dies in last song, but when you put record in "repeat" mode it doesn't he wakes up semi drunk from pills and red wine in last song sucking a lemon. Greatest album ever, and what to say about landscapes. OMG. I saw Rainbows, my head was on stick I was in bunker with lots of children and womans. Thank you Radiohead again. Sorry about bad English. Kiss to all fans from Croatia.… Expand
  79. JuLM-
    Jan 6, 2008
    10
    One of the best albums of the history
  80. DavidB
    Dec 24, 2007
    10
    I'm drunk right now, but at the moment I feel like crucifying all of the critcswho gave this a bad rating. I wonder if they've ever experienced a wonderful day or a totally euphoric moment of any kind. The only conclusion I can draw from these negative reviews is that the people writing them are not human. It's true, androids--its the only answer. I'm drunk. Fuck this album with your pants off and live forever.… Expand
  81. RobbieC
    Dec 9, 2007
    10
    An historic and seminal piece of work.
  82. sethisawesome
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    This is one of those rare things that divides people like the little debbie pastry line. people seem to either love it or hate it. i happen to love it. a lot. i literally FELT the music here, the strange and unexpected sonic intricacies seemed to coarse through my very soul upon first listen, and they still do today.
  83. Jimbo
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Absolutely stunning I think resonance might need to give it another listen! WANKERS.
  84. AyrtonL.
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    The best record of the century. (This is non-negotiable boyos).
  85. Timr
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    If i could, i would if it an 11. there is a beauty one cannot discribe. morning bell chimes to me every time i hear of radiohead.
  86. trojanpony
    Oct 13, 2007
    10
    Simply the best album I've ever had the privilege of hearing. Re-defined my idea of music.
  87. ChrisR.
    Oct 6, 2007
    0
    Ha ha! Just kidding! 10/10 If you don't get Radiohead you don't get music.
  88. ErikH
    Sep 9, 2007
    10
    Is this album as good as the decade-defining OK Computer? No, but it's a lot closer than people think. I honestly listen to this album substantially more than either OKC or The Bends.
  89. NickD
    Jul 19, 2007
    10
    Perfect.
  90. CB
    Jul 10, 2007
    10
    No album is more important to me than this one. 7 years in and 100s if not 1000s of listens to later, it still blows me away. A true masterpiece.
  91. MaxM
    Jun 21, 2007
    10
    This is my favorite album next to Amnesiac. It's hard to believe Radiohead can create two great albums within two years.
  92. NE
    Jun 17, 2007
    10
    Classic. The best album of the 21st century. The first question you should ask when you hear the initial seconds of "Everything in Its Right Place" should be "Is this the same band that released Pablo Honey and The Bends?". Of course, those albums are great (and OK Computer being for me another 10), but this is one of the most satisfying and inventive albums ever. I'll never get tired of listening to it, from "Everything..." to the silence of "Motion Picture Soundtrack". OK Computer is a classic. But I love this more.… Expand
  93. markl
    May 27, 2007
    10
    A brillant and thought-provoking album. This is a radical departure from Radioheads past work but Kid A is actually a logical progression from OK Computer because of the increasing computer uses in OK Computer. What comesa out of Kid A is a beautiful and innovative album. Tracks such as Everything In Its Right Place and NAtional Anhthem simmer with genius.
  94. SeanP.
    May 22, 2007
    10
    The apotheosis of "grower" and "before-its-time." I'm still in the process of "getting" this album, and their other albums, for that matter.
  95. Oligami
    May 20, 2007
    8
    Feverish, ardent music that seems to be the antithesis of their previous masterpiece. As confusing as a subway map of Tokyo.
  96. JasonB
    Apr 29, 2007
    10
    A modern classic. Original and thought provoking with loads of depth. Not to be judged until after two or three listens at minimum.
  97. LK
    Apr 29, 2007
    10
    Brave and Brilliant. Kid A is as good as The Bends and OK Computer and sounds like a band that is capable of anything. Radiohead are truly the geniuses of our generation.
  98. mikeh
    Apr 26, 2007
    10
    Still an amazing record. It kind of feels that some of those that criticize the album do on the basis theres no 'creep,' or that because they've heard autechre and aphex twin they have license to completely trash the record. big fucking deal. regardless of total originality, the songwriting and structure is incredible.
  99. DeezlP
    Apr 23, 2007
    7
    Hits more often than it misses. The ultimate problem is that it seems to be behind the times- it would have been faintly radical in 1997, quite radical in 1987, and bleedin' amazin' in 1977. On a technological front, the likes of Autechre would destroy them; on the other hand, Autechre don't have a sense of songcraft. Quite often, the lyrics needn't mean anything, because they connect to the music so well, and vise versa. All the same, certain songs- especially "Treefingers"- are clever, but only really drift along on that.… Expand
  100. RadioHead
    Apr 10, 2007
    10
    Could this band ever possible do any wrong? Theyre completely different... and no one could argue that. I can see if they dont quite understand why they are so brilliant... but you cant deny that this band isnt exactly that! This band truely has no comparisions.
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Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 24
  3. Negative: 1 out of 24
  1. Pitchfork
    100
    Comparing this to other albums is like comparing an aquarium to blue construction paper.... It's the sound of a band, and its leader, losing faith in themselves, destroying themselves, and subsequently rebuilding a perfect entity. In other words, Radiohead hated being Radiohead, but ended up with the most ideal, natural Radiohead record yet.
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  2. Spin
    90
    Radiohead have completely immersed themselves in the studio-as-instrument--signal processing, radical stereo separation, and other antinaturalistic techniques. Even the precious Guitars--saturated with effects and gaseous with sustain--resemble natural phenomena rather than power chords or lead lines. Essentially, this is a post-rock record.... Kid A is not only Radiohead's bravest album but its best one as well. [Oct 2000, p.172]
  3. Ink Blot Magazine
    80
    For an album that apparently grew out of the band trying to get away from melody, there's a lot of it here. They can't help themselves. They try to do a song with a robotic dance beat, load it up with bleak phrases like "laughing till my head comes off" and "take the money and run" and "this is really happening," call it "Idioteque" for chrissake, and what stands out are not the beat and not the phrases or the apparent concept of dance music being silly when horrible things are happening in the world, but the seven or eight different heartwrenching vocal lines and the amazing way they intertwine.
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