... as we know them today.As a longtime Radiohead fan (one of my 3 favorite groups), I thought I'd finally start reviewing some of their albums. Looking at them comparatively with each other and as albums on their own right.I start with the Bends because this is the album that really made Radiohead who they are. Previous to this album, Radiohead was going to be a one-hit wonder. Thom Yorke didn't want that, so they put out what is probably one of the best albums of the 90's. Unlike later Radiohead albums, The Bends is a straight out rock/alternative album. There isn't anything terribly complex about it in terms of accessibility, although the song writing does show the greatness that has evolved over the years. I think the accessibility of this album is what really made Radiohead a popular band. It is also what is responsible for the loss of fans that followed with the release of albums like Kid A and Amnesiac later on down the road. Songs like The Bends, My Iron Lung, and Black Star are rockers not unlike Creep. High and Dry and Fake Plastic Trees are ballad like rock songs that were stereotypical of the genre. What made the Bends stand out though was the creativity in the lyrics, the symbolism that isn't always present in the stereotypical rock album. Add to that the musicianship that while not unlike the popular alternative and rock albums of the time, started to demonstrate the talents of the musicians, especially Johnny Greenwood (whom has only become better with time).The Bends really is a great album. It's a great album for the fan of the 90's alternative rock as it has almost a grunge like sound (although by a British band) that stretches beyond that sub-genre. It's a great album if you are a newer fan of Radiohead and you want to see where they came from. Again, it is probably Radiohead's most accessible album, so it is really an album that almost any fan of rock or alternative rock music would enjoy even if they are not a fan of the Radiohead of today.
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