I quite agree that The Bends is the bomb, and certainly my favorite
R-head record.  I thought that OK Computer was more "sophisticated" but
less compelling compositionally.

I really really like Kid A and Amnesiac, even though they are not at all
the same kind of listening experience as their earlier records.  Those
two are impressionistic sound art, covering a wide range of emotions,
very intense at times.  Sure I miss the "hits", but Kid A and Amnesiac
still make me smile out loud, just for different reasons.  (I should
disclose that I have a lot of Tangerine Dream in my record collection,
even though I haven't listened to that stuff in probably 10 years.)

When people tell me they don't understand Kid A at all, I tell them to
start with The Bends, then digest OK Computer, and THEN move on to Kid A.
 That approach has worked for a couple of my friends.  I guess you have
to be broken in.

I listened to Hail to the Thief 3 times when I got it, but so far it
hasn't made much of an impression on me.  That could mean I just don't
get it yet.  It's in the briefcase for another round of listens, though. 
I do however love the packaging.  (I got the limited edition.)

g



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