Hail to the Thief
Radiohead · 2003
56 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · art rock · experimental rock
A fragmented exploration of anxiety and disillusionment set against experimental soundscapes and haunting melodies.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- fragmented exploration of disillusionment anxious soundscapes for introspection haunting melodies for late nights
- Context
- Released on June 9, 2003, 'Hail to the Thief' came after Radiohead's critically acclaimed album 'Amnesiac' and marked their sixth studio effort. At this point in their career, Radiohead was transitioning into a more politically charged lyrical style, influenced by the socio-political climate post-9/11. The album showcased their continued evolution, blending elements of electronic music with rock.
- If you like
- alternative rock, art rock, experimental rock
Hail to the Thief is an album by Radiohead, released in 2003. A fragmented exploration of anxiety and disillusionment set against experimental soundscapes and haunting melodies. 'Hail to the Thief' debuted at number three on the UK Albums Chart and received widespread critical acclaim, often being hailed for its ambitious production and thematic depth. It also sparked discussions around political engagement in music during a time of global turmoil, becoming emblematic of the early 2000s alternative rock landscape. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
New to Radiohead? Read our guide on where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Hail to the Thief sound like?
A fragmented exploration of anxiety and disillusionment set against experimental soundscapes and haunting melodies. Rooted in alternative rock and art rock.
What makes Hail to the Thief by Radiohead notable?
'Hail to the Thief' debuted at number three on the UK Albums Chart and received widespread critical acclaim, often being hailed for its ambitious production and thematic depth. It also sparked discussions around political engagement in music during a time of global turmoil, becoming emblematic of the early 2000s alternative rock landscape. Released on June 9, 2003, 'Hail to the Thief' came after Radiohead's critically acclaimed album 'Amnesiac' and marked their sixth studio effort. At this point in their career, Radiohead was transitioning into a more politically charged lyrical style, influenced by the socio-political climate post-9/11. The album showcased their continued evolution, blending elements of electronic music with rock.
Who is Hail to the Thief for?
Hail to the Thief works well if you're into fragmented exploration of disillusionment, anxious soundscapes for introspection and haunting melodies for late nights.
How many songs are on Hail to the Thief?
Hail to the Thief has 14 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 2 + 2 = 5 (The Lukewarm.) Standout 3:19
- 2 Sit Down. Stand Up. (Snakes & Ladders.) 4:20
- 3 Sail to the Moon. (Brush the Cobwebs Out of the Sky.) Standout 4:18
- 4 Backdrifts. (Honeymoon Is Over.) 5:22
- 5 Go to Sleep. (Little Man Being Erased.) 3:21
- 6 Where I End and You Begin. (The Sky Is Falling In.) 4:29
- 7 We Suck Young Blood. (Your Time Is Up.) 4:56
- 8 The Gloaming. (Softly Open Our Mouths in the Cold.) 3:32
- 9 There There. (The Boney King of Nowhere.) Standout 5:24
- 10 I Will. (No Man’s Land.) 1:59
- 11 A Punchup at a Wedding. (No No No No No No No No.) 4:57
- 12 Myxomatosis. (Judge, Jury & Executioner.) 3:52
- 13 Scatterbrain. (As Dead as Leaves.) 3:21
- 14 A Wolf at the Door. (It Girl. Rag Doll.) 3:21
Release Date
June 9, 2003
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
56 min 37 sec
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