Radiohead
Airbag/How Am I Driving?
(Capitol)

Rating: 96/100

Yep, this the b-sides that you already own. But you’re about to rush out and buy it anyway aren’t you? Why? Because you’re a “Japanese Completist”, and besides, you have heard about the fantastic artwork.

Radiohead have always had fantastic b-sides - in fact, some of their earlier b-sides were better than some of the songs on their debut album, Pablo Honey. However, their b-sides are less accessible than their album work - which is perhaps the reason that they release them as b-sides. Nevertheless, once appreciated, Radiohead’s b-sides seem to wind their way into your head, never giving up and never letting go. This was particularly apparent for the OK Computer b-sides - “Pearly” would have to go down as one of the best ever songs not to make the final cut of an album, as would the beautiful “Polyethylene (Parts 1 & 2)”.

Actually, if you’re not a “singles” person, this is a great way of compiling nearly all the Australian b-sides in one easy release. Every song is wonderful, but it is especially worthy to hear “Polyethylene (Parts 1 & 2)” directly after “A Reminder”. In fact, that is one of the best things about Airbag/How Am I Driving? - the track listing makes much more sense this way, and it seems to flow like an album. If you don’t own some of the OK Computer singles, this is a must.

The Electric Newspaper
08.98