Radiohead's Hail to the Thief

Recorded in late 2002, Radiohead's newest album Hail to the Thief is a snapshot into an Orwellian universe, filled with metaphorical imagines and sublime sounds.
In contrast to the bands two previous projects, the album's 14 tracks are far more musically inviting.
The opening song "2+2=5" is firm example of the band's signature pessimistic nature. Brimming with range, lead singer Thom Yorke takes on the voice of a tyrannical dictator, shouting absurd and meaningless orders.
The track is an attempt at political satire, providing commentary on current world issues such as the U.S. led war on Iraq.
But this should not mislead a listener who may be discouraged by the possibility of hearing yet another angry album.
The song "A Punch-up at a Wedding" is a soulful groove supported by a snarling bass line and the soothing voice of Yorke.
As the listener moves to the final song, "A Wolf at the Door", they will encounter a dark and witty ballad about a wolf's desperate attempt to "get inside".
The track demonstrates the difficulty of sometimes escaping one's inner demons.
Like the rest of the songs on album, this piece is chalk full of poetic phases and dream-like imagery.
Overall, the album is yet another example of the band's brilliant attention to detail. The album is fantastic and well worth a listen.

Publication Date: 2003-06-22
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=2878