Radiohead: The King of Limbs

From Kid A and OK Computer to The Bends and Hail To The Thief, Radiohead has released some of the most critically acclaimed rock albums of all time. Many fans and critics alike have deemed Radiohead’s 2007 release “In Rainbows” as the band’s masterpiece. Based on some comments front man Thom Yorke made in interviews within the past year, many fans feared it would also be the band’s final album. After a successful solo project with Red Hot Chili Peppers’ bassist Flea, Yorke delighted fans with a simple message that the band was working on a new album. The fruit of their labor has finally been released under the title “The King Of Limbs.” In true Radiohead fashion, the album is full of drum loops, ambient guitar sounds, complex time signatures, and abstract moaning lyrics. When asked about his writing, the eccentric Yorke once stated, “I often write lyrics and my band mates have to tell me what they mean.” Upon first listen, the pseudo ballad, “Give Up The Ghost” and electro-beat “Morning Mr. Magpie” are the stand out tracks on the album. While I didn’t enjoy this album as much as Hail To The Thief, my personal favorite Radiohead album, it is produced very well and will most likely be played in every trendy coffee shop you visit over the next eight months.

The King of Limbs by Radiohead              Tony’s rating 3.5 out of 5 stars
 

The Decemberists: The King Is Dead

I will say it…I love this album. Portland, Oregon’s The Decemberists created a masterpiece with their latest release. The King Is Dead sounds like Tom Petty, Neil Young, and Bob Dylan had an illegitimate love child who decided to record a neo-folk ode to Americana roots rock. It’s a great record from start to finish…in fact, I’ve listened to The King Is Dead in its entirety six times. It is hands down THE best album that I have had the privilege of reviewing thus far in 2011. Notable tracks include “Down By The Water,” “All Arise,” and “January Hymn.” Buy it…your ears will thank me.

The King is Dead by The Decemberists         Tony’s rating 5 out of 5 stars
 

Arcade Fire: Suburbs

Since 2003, Canadian rockers The Arcade Fire have been an indie powerhouse. Great albums such as Neon Bible and The Funeral have gained the band an underground cult like following. Arcade Fire shocked the pop world when their latest album, Suburbs, was named the 2011 Grammy Album of The Year. It is a very good concept album that reflects on lead singer Win Butler’s coming of age in Houston, but album of the year? Despite hipsters everywhere claiming Suburbs as one of the greatest albums of this century, I feel it was a bit over hyped.

Suburbs by Arcade Fire                         Tony’s rating 3 out of 5 stars
 

Bright Eyes: The People’s Key

After a year of anxiously awaiting the new Bright Eyes album, I am sad to say that it is the biggest let down of 2011…thus far. Half of The People’s Key is nonsensical ramblings of a biker turned philosopher that lead singer Conor Oberst met at a truck stop. There are no memorable songs or real desire to give it another listen. My feelings may change, but in comparison to the incredible albums that Bright Eyes has created over the years, I was disappointed with this record.

The People’s Key by Bright Eyes                 Tony’s rating 1 out of 5 stars