By Jake Mosca
Released on May 21st, 1997, “OK Computer” is one of the most influential, defining albums of the 90s. “OK Computer” encompasses the musical identity of Radiohead with its mellow alternative rock sound. The album became a fan favorite for many and an album that people will never forget. While it was released almost 30 years ago, it still has influence on younger generations with timeless themes throughout the tracks.
“OK Computer” is truly unforgettable an album that incorporates sounds from both alternative rock and electronic sounds to create a one of a kind listening experience. IHS Sophomore Ryan Portnoy said, “There wasn’t a single song in the album that I didn’t like. I liked ‘Paranoid Android’ the most out of all of them”. Ryan’s comments reflect the album’s consistency and how it had something to offer with every track. “Paranoid Android”, specifically, offers a unique listening experience with its mesmerizing vocals and layered instrumentals.
The album consistently explores themes of feeling isolated despite being connected to other people. For example, in the song “Let Down”, the lyrics describe connected environments, including busy transit hubs and crowded cities. However, while it describes these vivid scenes of being physically present with other people, the frontman of the band, Thom Yorke, describes a feeling of being crushed inside and emotional emptiness. Furthermore, in the song “Subterranean Homesick Alien”, it also highlights this feeling of being alone. In interviews, Thom Yorke described how this song was inspired by his childhood in suburban Oxfordshire in a small town. In an interview for Ultimate Classic Rock, Yorke said, “That’s where a lot of it came from, from someone who is not involved”. He said that he hated his small town, and how everyone knew each other. Yorke said he “just wanted to be abducted by aliens”, which is what this song is about – escaping difficult social situations.
Although this album was released in 1997, the theme of feeling alone in social environments still resonates with teenagers today. Even though it was released before social media was created, many kids of today’s generation connect to this album because of the feelings that social media gives them. The feeling of being alone despite connectivity is a feeling that a lot of people feel on social media. On social media, people can be plugged into other people’s lives by watching them do things such as hanging out or achieving their goals. Being constantly attached to other people’s lives and what they are doing can lead people to feel disconnected from their own and “crushed like a bug in the ground”. The song “Let Down” demonstrates that feeling of loneliness and just puts it into being in the middle of a room. As it constantly describes busy public transportation stations, it also describes feeling empty inside through it all.
Ultimately, “OK Computer” remains a timeless album that fans love. With its alternative rock style mixed with electronic influences, the album offers a once in a lifetime listening experience. While it was released in the 90s, the themes still correspond with kids today, making it truly a timeless album.
