Radiohead - OK Computer

Parlophone/Capitol

May 21st, 1997.

Radiohead's third studio album blew the doors wide off of the alternative rock world. Aligning the feeling of impending doom and electricity’s translucent blue, a future of uncertainty and calloused consciousness seemed firmly on the cards. Nothing was impossible, not even the tricks brought on by the promises of prosperity.

The 21st Century was on the horizon, glowing in a dull-fluorescent, apprehensive sheen. The future was looking bright, but not without its setbacks. A growing global population on the brink of dismay. Unlimited options for connection, resulting in deep inward turmoil and, ironically, disconnection. Radiohead captured the aura surrounding the dawn of the internet age. The illusion of connection that it offered up was sprayed in shiny pseudo glitter and gold. The ability to connect to people at the drop of a hat was soon to be here, but the want and need for connection on a personal level had never been as strong. Society teetering on the edge of ease, falling into its seductive traps. The easier you make something, the harder it becomes. Offer up things without some form of struggle attached and the thing itself becomes seemingly worthless. No effort, no reward. No effort, no connection.

Turning to the electronic ether offers up a fresh start. Albeit one of empty offerings and limp, lifeless handshakes. Men in suits flash the cash, begging for anything that resembles a feeling - never realizing that these things can't be bought.

Sleep tight in your blankets of bankrupt emotions and ransacked values. Sweet dreams of gucci little piggies, fridge buzz, and cats tied to sticks.

Hey man, slow down.

May 21st, 1997.