What makes Knives Out by Radiohead notable?

'Knives Out' received significant critical acclaim upon release, further solidifying Radiohead's position as pioneers of alternative music. The track is often noted for its influence on the post-millennial music landscape and remains a staple in live performances, showcasing the band's ongoing impact on contemporary artists. Released in 2001, 'Knives Out' came during Radiohead's artistic evolution following their critically acclaimed album 'Kid A'. This era marked a shift towards more experimental sounds, as the band began to explore new sonic territories beyond their earlier Britpop roots.

How many songs are on Knives Out?

Knives Out has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Knives Out

Radiohead · 2001

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

Atmospheric layers of haunting instrumentation intertwine with Thom Yorke's fragile vocals, creating an unsettling yet captivating soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Knives Out — The title track encapsulates the album's exploration of existential dread and interpersonal conflict, blending eerie melodies with poignant lyrics.
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Worrywort — This track features a more upbeat tempo contrasted against anxious themes, highlighting Radiohead's ability to juxtapose sound and sentiment effectively.
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Fog — The ethereal quality of this song creates a sense of introspection and vulnerability, serving as a reflective moment within the album's overall narrative.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single showcases Radiohead's experimental sound while maintaining strong atmospheric elements and distinctive vocals.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow build with layered instrumentation that gradually intensifies, creating a sense of unease.
Vocals are delivered in a breathy, fragile manner, often overlapping with the instrumental sections rather than dominating them.
The second track, 'Worrywort', employs a more rhythmic structure but retains the atmospheric quality, contrasting with the first track's tension.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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: Experimental — Represents a shift towards more experimental sounds post-Kid A.
Themes: betrayal and disillusionment· atmospheric isolation
Career context: Released in 2001, 'Knives Out' came during Radiohead's artistic evolution following their critically acclaimed album 'Kid A'. This era marked a shift towards more experimental sounds, as the band began to explore new sonic territories beyond their earlier Britpop roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Sigur Rós· Interpol· The National