Radiohead - A Moon Shaped Pool (2LP)

Radiohead's "A Moon Shaped Pool," released on May 8, 2016, is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the environment. The album marks the band's ninth studio release and continues their tradition of pushing musical boundaries while maintaining a deeply emotional core. Produced by longtime collaborator Nigel Godrich, "A Moon Shaped Pool" is a testament to Radiohead's ability to evolve and remain relevant in the ever-changing landscape of modern music.

The album opens with "Burn the Witch," a track that immediately sets the tone with its urgent strings and Thom Yorke's ethereal vocals. The song's orchestration, featuring a string section arranged by guitarist Jonny Greenwood, is both lush and tense, creating a sense of foreboding that permeates the entire album. This track, along with others, showcases Greenwood's growing influence as a composer, drawing from his experience in scoring films such as "There Will Be Blood."

"Daydreaming," the second track, is a standout piece that exemplifies the album's introspective nature. The song's minimalist piano and Yorke's haunting voice create a dreamlike atmosphere, enhanced by the song's accompanying music video directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. The video, much like the song, is open to interpretation, inviting listeners to delve into its layers of meaning.

One of the most significant aspects of "A Moon Shaped Pool" is its use of previously unreleased material. Songs like "True Love Waits," which had been performed live for years but never recorded in a studio album, finally find a home here. The album's version of "True Love Waits" is stripped down and poignant, with Yorke's voice accompanied by a simple piano arrangement, offering a raw and emotional conclusion to the album.

The critical reception of "A Moon Shaped Pool" was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its emotional depth and sonic innovation. The album was nominated for the Mercury Prize and received a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album. Critics lauded the band's ability to blend electronic elements with orchestral arrangements, creating a soundscape that is both modern and timeless.

Culturally, "A Moon Shaped Pool" reflects Radiohead's ongoing engagement with contemporary issues. The album's themes of environmental concern and personal introspection resonate with listeners in an era marked by uncertainty and change. The band's decision to release the album digitally first, followed by physical formats, also highlights their continued experimentation with music distribution in the digital age.

Tracks like "The Numbers" and "Present Tense" further demonstrate the band's lyrical and musical prowess. "The Numbers" is a call to action against environmental destruction, with its lyrics urging listeners to "take back what is ours." The song's arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and strings, builds to a powerful crescendo, underscoring its urgent message. "Present Tense," on the other hand, offers a more introspective take on personal relationships, with its bossa nova-inspired rhythm and Yorke's reflective lyrics.

Overall, "A Moon Shaped Pool" is a masterful addition to Radiohead's discography, showcasing their ability to craft music that is both innovative and emotionally resonant. The album's blend of orchestral and electronic elements, combined with Yorke's distinctive voice and introspective lyrics, creates a listening experience that is both immersive and thought-provoking. As Radiohead continues to evolve, "A Moon Shaped Pool" stands as a testament to their enduring influence and artistic vision.