The Bends (album)

The Bends is the second studio album by English rock band Radiohead. It was released on 13 March 1995 through Parlophone Records. The album was recorded between August 1994 and January 1995 and was produced by John Leckie.

Background and Recording

After the success of their debut album Pablo Honey, Radiohead faced pressure to deliver a follow-up that would solidify their place in the music industry. The band members, particularly lead singer Thom Yorke, felt overwhelmed by the expectations and struggled with writer's block during the early stages of recording. However, they eventually found inspiration and began experimenting with different musical styles and techniques.

The recording sessions took place at various studios, including Abbey Road Studios in London and St. Catherine's Court in Bath. The band worked closely with producer John Leckie, who helped them refine their sound and capture the desired atmosphere for each track.

Musical Style

The Bends marked a significant departure from Radiohead's earlier grunge-influenced sound. The album showcased a more diverse range of musical styles, incorporating elements of alternative rock, art rock, and post-punk. The band's songwriting also evolved, with more introspective and emotionally charged lyrics.

The album's opening track, "Planet Telex", sets the tone with its atmospheric soundscapes and Yorke's haunting vocals. Other notable tracks include the anthemic "High and Dry", the melancholic "Fake Plastic Trees", and the energetic "Just". The album's title track, "The Bends", explores themes of isolation and anxiety, which became recurring motifs in Radiohead's later work.

Reception

The Bends received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and is now considered one of the greatest albums of all time. It was praised for its musical innovation, introspective lyrics, and emotional depth. The album's success helped establish Radiohead as one of the leading bands of the 1990s alternative rock scene.

Legacy

The Bends has had a lasting impact on the music industry and continues to influence artists across various genres. Its success paved the way for Radiohead's subsequent critically acclaimed albums, including OK Computer and Kid A. The album's themes of alienation and disillusionment resonated with a generation of listeners and solidified Radiohead's reputation as a band unafraid to push boundaries.

Track Listing

1. "Planet Telex"
2. "The Bends"
3. "High and Dry"
4. "Fake Plastic Trees"
5. "Bones"
6. "Nice Dream"
7. "Just"
8. "My Iron Lung"
9. "Bullet Proof..I Wish I Was"
10. "Black Star"
11. "Sulk"
12. "Street Spirit (Fade Out)"

Personnel

• Thom Yorke – vocals, guitar, piano
• Jonny Greenwood – guitar, keyboards, other instruments
• Ed O'Brien – guitar, backing vocals
• Colin Greenwood – bass
• Phil Selway – drums, percussion

External Links

• Official website
• The Bends at AllMusic

• The Bends (album) at Discogs