OK Computer Review: A Portrait of Modern Anxiety
10/10 — Radiohead - OK Computer (1997)
Pros
- 'Paranoid Android' and 'Karma Police'
- Thom Yorke's yearning vocals
- Rich, atmospheric production
Cons
- Bleak tone
- Oblique lyrics
Made with producer Nigel Godrich, OK Computer followed The Bends with a more ambitious, atmospheric sound. It captures the anxieties of the technological age, and its reputation has only grown.
What works
‘Paranoid Android’ is a three-part epic, ‘Karma Police’ a haunting singalong, and ‘Exit Music (For a Film)’ a slow-burning masterpiece. Thom Yorke’s voice is full of ache, Jonny Greenwood’s guitars and textures are inventive, and the whole album feels cohesive.
Where it falters
It can be bleak and emotionally cool, and the lyrics are occasionally oblique to the point of vagueness.
Verdict
A modern classic that sounds as relevant as ever.
