What makes Karma Police by Radiohead notable?

Karma Police became one of Radiohead's most recognizable tracks, reaching number 8 on the UK Singles Chart and solidifying the band's influence in the late 1990s alternative music scene. The song has been praised for its innovative sound and introspective lyrics, contributing to the critical acclaim of 'OK Computer', which is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time. Released as the third single from their critically acclaimed album 'OK Computer', Radiohead was transitioning from their Britpop roots into more experimental territory. By 1997, they had already achieved significant recognition with their previous album 'The Bends', positioning them at the forefront of alternative rock.

How many songs are on Karma Police?

Karma Police has 3 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Karma Police

Radiohead · 1997

10 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of melancholic melodies and electronic textures that confronts existential themes with a cinematic sweep.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Karma Police — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of alienation and societal critique, featuring a memorable piano-driven melody that evolves into an atmospheric climax.
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Meeting in the Aisle — With its fragmented structure and ethereal instrumentation, this song exemplifies Radiohead's departure from traditional song forms, offering a glimpse into their experimental style.
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Lull — As a brief but poignant interlude, 'Lull' showcases the band's ability to create emotional depth through minimalism, reflecting themes of vulnerability and introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and innovative production, though its cohesion is affected by the interlude.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow build, starting with a simple piano line that gradually layers in strings and electronic elements.
The second track, 'Meeting in the Aisle', is an instrumental interlude that contrasts sharply with the lyrical depth of 'Karma Police'.
The final track, 'Lull', employs ambient soundscapes and minimalistic instrumentation, creating a sense of closure.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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: Breakthrough — Solidified Radiohead's influence in alternative music during their transition to experimental sound.
Themes: societal alienation· post-modern disillusionment· suburban malaise
Career context: Released as the third single from their critically acclaimed album 'OK Computer', Radiohead was transitioning from their Britpop roots into more experimental territory. By 1997, they had already achieved significant recognition with their previous album 'The Bends', positioning them at the forefront of alternative rock.
Stylistic neighbors: Sigur Rós· Interpol· The National