What makes Harry Patch (In Memory Of) by Radiohead notable?

The single was released to honor Harry Patch, the last surviving soldier of World War I, and received critical acclaim for its poignant message. It highlights Radiohead's commitment to socially conscious music, further solidifying their reputation as a band that tackles profound topics through innovative soundscapes. Released as a standalone single in 2009, 'Harry Patch (In Memory Of)' followed Radiohead's commercially successful album 'In Rainbows' from 2007. This period marked the band's ongoing exploration of themes surrounding war and memory, demonstrating their artistic evolution beyond mainstream success.

How many songs are on Harry Patch (In Memory Of)?

Harry Patch (In Memory Of) has 1 track, running approximately 5 minutes.

Harry Patch (In Memory Of)

Radiohead · 2009

5 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A haunting tribute blending somber instrumentation with reflective lyrics, encapsulating loss and remembrance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Harry Patch (In Memory Of) — This title track serves as a powerful meditation on the horrors of war, using Patch's legacy to evoke deep emotional responses. The layered instrumentation mirrors the complexity of memory and loss.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The single effectively combines haunting instrumentation with reflective lyrics, creating a poignant tribute.

What we noticed

The track features a slow, steady tempo with layered instrumentation that builds gradually, creating an atmosphere of reflection.
The arrangement includes strings and subtle electronic elements that enhance the somber tone without overwhelming the vocals.
The lyrics are delivered in a measured, almost spoken style, emphasizing their reflective nature and allowing space for the listener to absorb the message.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A standalone single with a poignant message, not fitting other major roles.
Themes: World War I reflections· personal loss and memory· somber tribute to veterans
Career context: Released as a standalone single in 2009, 'Harry Patch (In Memory Of)' followed Radiohead's commercially successful album 'In Rainbows' from 2007. This period marked the band's ongoing exploration of themes surrounding war and memory, demonstrating their artistic evolution beyond mainstream success.
Stylistic neighbors: Sigur Rós· Interpol· The National