Hello! 😊👋
Welcome to a new edition of the Best Music of All Time newsletter!
Today’s music pick is the exceptional sophomore release from the Radiohead offshoot.
Genre: Alternative, Experimental
Label: XL
Release Date: January 26, 2024
Vibe: 😵💫
The Smile’s latest LP, Wall of Eyes, is instantly recognizable as a Radiohead spinoff and, compared to several more straight-ahead moments on the trio’s 2022 debut, nearly unrecognizable.
I suppose the latter shouldn’t be a surprise, considering Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood’s aversion to repeating an existing formula, regardless of its success. In that sense, hearing the appetite to take huge risks and lean into the controlled chaos atmospherics on this record was nothing short of exhilarating. The chemistry between Yorke and Greenwood, resulting from decades of painstaking studio work, is on full display at every turn, even when crescendos sound like they’re about to drive the vehicle off the road. As a result, this album isn’t just an improvement on A Light for Attracting Attention but the best Radiohead side project released so far.
Yorke’s voice is still in fine form, especially on the first two tracks, the eponymous slow burn of an opener and the hypnotic “Teleharmonic.” There’s added textures to his vocals now, fresh cracks and creases in his signature wails, but that world-weariness lends an additional emotional heft to the narratives he weaves. A song like “Bending Hectic” is a throwback to the hauntingly beautiful fender benders Radiohead built their legacy on, building to a stunning finale that’s among the best work he and Greenwood have ever collaborated on. The guitar and synth work is jaw-dropping throughout, alternating between soothing and startling at just the right moments.
Then there’s drummer Tom Skinner, who has the daunting task of tying everything together rhythmically. His performance makes him arguably the unsung hero of this entire record. Whether you’re new to the Radiohead extended sonic universe or a lifelong supporter, this one’s more than worth your time.
👉 Don’t forget to click the album image to stream the album on your favorite platform 👈
Really liked the two songs that i heard so far, so this is great news.