In Rainbows has managed to generate more heat before its release than almost any other rock album. Radiohead made the controversial decision to offer the album as an MP3 download where fans can choose their favorite songs from the band’s own website. The band has also delayed production for this album which normally is a bad thing, but actually works for these 16-year veterans of the music industry. Despite the fact that Jonny Greenwood was distracted by his work on Super Het Receiver when the band started working on their seventh album or Thom Yorke’s departure to pursue a solo album, In Rainbows contains many hidden pots of gold. The opening tracks “15 Step” and “Bodysnatchers” start off rather slow, until you hit the third track “Nude” – a classic soul ballad. The songs just get better and better from this point on with the direct love song “All I Need” and catchy singalong anthem “Jigsaw Falling Into Place.” In Rainbows is much closer to their third album than their last one and could be called a return to form for Radiohead fans.

Track List

Alter Bridge’s latest album, Blackbird, prove that the band is definitely no one-hit wonder. With a more brash, aggressive and raw feel than One Day Remains, the band performs well together. The album begins with the aggressive metal track “Ties That Bind” that features the heavy guitar riffs of Mark Tremonti and his brilliant soaring solo on “Come to Life.” One of the best tunes of the album has to be “Before Tomorrow Comes,” and it showcases why Alter Bridge has become one of the most exciting current metal/hard rock bands. The eighth track which is also the title track, “Blackbird” is more than just a soaring anthem; it’s a true hard rock masterpiece. The album also includes the beautiful ballad “Watch Over You” with its heartfelt lyrics and soft guitar. Blackbird is a great second album and is sure to please any Alter Bridge fans.

Track List