Radiohead
Knives Out
(Parlophone)

Rating: 4/5

While 'Knives Out', as has been suggested, sounds not unlike 'Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others' by The Smiths, there is a very acute distinction between the two.

Holding off on the thoroughly compelling random clanging, sci-fi prog interference and sonic jiggery pokery of late, this, the second single from the mighty Amnesiac, usurps Morrissey and Marr's almost comedy sadness, making it sound utterly joyous by comparison.

While The Smiths displayed a rich stripe of misery throughout their career, this is a resolutely empty vessel of despair, founded on the lines "I want you to know, Im not coming back" and underpinned by a graceful, gliding guitar presence throughout.

Another highlight from a band who bravely took a radical musical volt-face and left only mentally challenged writers and listeners red-faced. If Radiohead's future is anywhere near as challenging as their recent past, there is hope for us all.

Ben Gilbert

Dotmusic
06.08.01