What makes Nude by Radiohead notable?

'Nude' gained critical acclaim and has been recognized for its innovative approach to distribution in the context of the music industry, marking a shift towards artist empowerment. The song also became a standout track that showcased Radiohead's ability to blend art rock with mainstream appeal, contributing to the album's positive reception and chart success. Released in 2008, 'Nude' appears on Radiohead's album 'In Rainbows,' which marked a significant moment in their career as it was released through a groundbreaking pay-what-you-want model. This period followed the experimental sound of 'Hail to the Thief,' showcasing the band's evolution into more melodic and accessible compositions while maintaining their avant-garde roots.

How many songs are on Nude?

Nude has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Nude

Radiohead · 2008

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

Haunting melodies intertwine with atmospheric instrumentation, evoking a sense of longing and introspection throughout the listening experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Nude — The title track encapsulates the album’s themes of vulnerability and desire, blending lush instrumentation with Thom Yorke's ethereal vocals to create an immersive emotional experience.
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Down Is the New Up — This track features a captivating contrast between upbeat rhythms and reflective lyrics, encapsulating the tension between optimism and disillusionment present throughout the album.
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4 Minute Warning — Closing with an ambient soundscape, this track builds an atmosphere of urgency and introspection, effectively wrapping up the emotional journey initiated by the previous songs.

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

Nude combines haunting melodies with atmospheric layers, creating an introspective experience that stands out in Radiohead's discography.

What we noticed

The lead vocal is delivered in a soft, breathy manner, creating an intimate atmosphere that contrasts with the layered instrumentation.
The arrangement features a slow build-up, with strings and electronic elements gradually introduced, enhancing the emotional weight of the song.
The track employs a minimalist structure, repeating melodic phrases that evoke a sense of longing without overwhelming the listener.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
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: Breakthrough — 'Nude' gained critical acclaim and is tied to 'In Rainbows', which transformed music distribution.
Themes: vulnerability in intimacy· minimalist soundscapes
Career context: Released in 2008, 'Nude' appears on Radiohead's album 'In Rainbows,' which marked a significant moment in their career as it was released through a groundbreaking pay-what-you-want model. This period followed the experimental sound of 'Hail to the Thief,' showcasing the band's evolution into more melodic and accessible compositions while maintaining their avant-garde roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Sigur Rós· Interpol· The National