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5.0 out of 5 stars
The EXTRA tracks from Kid A are actually better!, 31 May 2003
On Kid A Radiohead showed the world that they are more than just one the most talented bands at the moment, that there is also an innovative side that can only class them as genius, and obviously the best band to come out of Britain in a long time.
Kid A was a huge step from OK Computer, and even though many of the critics didn't really like it (what do they know), it was still brilliant.
Amnesiac (tracks recorded at the same time as Kid A) shows this again, but with more guitar this time. But those of you epecting epic songs and long guitar solos look away now.
The range of songs on offer are great from the beautiful "Pyramid Song" to the wierdness that is "Like spinning plates". The opening track "Packt like sardines in a crushd tin box" has a large range of instuments and effects, demonstrating the ability of each band member.
The one song that is more like a typical Radiohead song is "Knives Out" which sees the band using the three guitar system that was evident on the previous albums, and the dark lyrics that Thom sings often "Catch the mouse/Squash his head/Throw him in the pot". Nice image.
The only downside is "Morning Bell/Amnesiac". One of the best songs from Kid A loses the flair that made the original good, this time it is too slow and a bit crap without the great guitar ending. But it is still good, mind.
It is also nice too see the band trying out some new styles ("Life in a Glasshouse").
A nice highlight is "Dollars and cents" which has some great moments, such the build up (the "why don't you quiet down" bit) and then the drums explode before going silent again.
What Radiohead have created however are songs that will be forever used on adverts. How many times have you heard a Radiohead song on an advert or TV programme? I think the list is endless.
Overall, buy this album if you want to discover a great band or have an open mind.