Kid A

Radiohead is an English rock band formed in 1985. They comprise Thom Yorke (Vocals, Guitar, Piano) brothers Johnny Greenwood (Guitar, Keyboards, Misc.) Colin Greenwood (Bass) and Ed O’Brien (Guitar, Backing Vocals) and Philip Selway (Drums, Percussion). Kid A is the fourth Studio Album by the band and a major departure from the bands defined sound. Radiohead had early success with “Pablo Honey” and “The Bends” but it was their 3 Studio album “OK Computer” that brought them worldwide commercial success and a subsequent year long international tour. Unfortunately, this took a major toll on the mental health of the band members. Thom Yorke in particular struggled to cope with the pressure to perform for such large crowds. Thom would reach out to his friend Michael Stipe of R.E.M. for advice. Michael told Thom to “Close the shutters and repeat: I’m not here. This isn’t happening.” The band was able to push through the remainder of the tour but were left somewhat disillusioned by music and show business. Thom Yorke would struggle with writers block for the majority of Kid A’s production, which may partially explain the use of Michaels Stipe’s mantra in the chorus of “How to Disappear Completely”. Due to disagreements within the band, the album’s creation was an arduous process. Kid A would go on to be divisive among Radiohead’s audience at the time of it’s release.