RADIOHEAD, Kid A (2000).

Dark, brooding, open, atmospheric … this album couldn’t have less to do with OK Computer, the first Radiohead album I fell in love with, and was eagerly anticipating given the success of that 1997 masterpiece.

Radiohead seemed to be walking a slow and steady path toward a definitive sound. Pablo Honey, The Bends, OK Computer … there was no doubting where they were headed next.

Whoops! So much for expectation.

“Everything In Its Right Place” remains my all-time favorite album opening, and I’ve heard some great ones. I’ve always loved what Mike Keneally said to me about that song when I interviewed him for my first book. “That opening puts you in the perfect headspace,” or words to that effect. I knew I’d found a kindred spirit.

It took a while to warm up to Kid A. More than a few people bristled at it, myself included. But it’s another masterpiece.

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