It’s hard to believe that it’s already been three and a half years since In Rainbows. Radiohead are back with their latest release, The King of Limbs, an eight track album that is clearly inspired by the world music the band has been posting about on their blog recently. It was released over the past weekend and I’ve had a chance to give it a few listens.

Track List

1. “Bloom” : This one immediately reminded me of Kid A/Amnesiac. It’s got a disjointed jungle beat to it and is a solid opener.
2. “Morning Mr. Magpie” : This is definitely the stand out track for me. I think it’s one of the least complex songs on the album, but the beat and Thom’s vocals are great. Apparently, this song has been around for a while too; here’s a different version from 2002.
3. “Little By Little” : After some time I wouldn’t be surprised if this passes “Morning Mr. Magpie” as my favorite track. I’m not sure how to describe the beat, but commenters on a few music blogs I frequent say it’s Baião, a rhythm from Brazil. All I know is that it is amazing.
4. “Feral” : This is a nice send off for the first half of TKoL. It’s got a funky beat with almost no vocals and is appropriately named. I think they meant for this to be the climax.
5. “Lotus Flower” : The haunting vocals in true Thom Yorke style makes this my favorite vocal track. Backed by good drums and hand claps, this is probably the song that sounds most like a Radiohead song to me. That’s a plus by the way. It’s nice to have a little something familiar.  It’s also the first song to have a video (see below).
6. “Codex” : I’m not sure about this one. I’ve listened to it numerous times already and I just can’t seem to get into it. This and “Give Up The Ghost” are the slowest tracks and after all the quick beats in the first half I’m just not feeling it.
7. “Give Up The Ghost” : Another slow song to wind down the album. I like it better that “Codex”, but it’s one of the weaker tracks in my opinion.
8. “Separator” : “If you think this is over then you’re wrong.” The main lyrics from this track have led to some interesting theories in the comments over at Stereogum about there being another album later this year, similar to the release of Kid A and Amnesiac. It’s a solid, mellow closer with more haunting vocals regardless. I like it.

While I’m not into the slower tracks, this is another great Radiohead album. It might not be as accessible to new listeners as In Rainbows or some of the first albums, but fans will like it. Overall, I’m pleased with The King of Limbs. Do yourself a favor and give it a listen.

I leave you with the first video from The King of Limbs for the song “Lotus Flower.” Enjoy Thom’s crazy dancing!