As a teenager in Tennessee, I grew up on blend of American rock. My favorite bands were born out of Seattle’s grunge rock period (Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, etc) or the southern rock machine of the ’60s and ’70s (The Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, etc).

Fortunately for me, a close friend explored music and had a knack at finding talent in a variety of genres. He exerted his influenced through careful recommendations and personalized play lists. Not only did he turn me on to a few classics like The Clash and Leon Russell, but he introduced me to the not-so-grunge alternative rock that is Radiohead. At first, I resisted the temptation of “Creep” and Pablo Honey. While a solid album, I couldn’t really identify with the lyrics. All my hesitance faded as I was swept away by The Bends. To this day, I think it is arguably one of the best albums of the ’90s.

My love for Radiohead continued over the next few years until the sounds of the band changed. I felt betrayed by the later day albums and Radiohead’s new sound. The music felt less like rock and more like some weird hybrid–  techno-rock arvant grande art form. I fell out with the band, missing the simple yet driving rock sound of the ’90s.

All of that changed today when I downloaded the new album– In Rainbows. Not only have they released the album on their own website, but purchasers get to select their own price. That’s right… you decide how much to pay. I went through the steps and had two failed downloads before finally getting the files. Once the download started, it was incredibly fast!  Best yet, I picked my own price and settled on $3 plus the $.50 surcharge. I probably should have paid more, but I’m still a little iffy after the last few albums.

I’m working my way through the album right now, and I am floored. Not only do I hear the ’90s band I loved, but the kind of quality that comes from tenderness and care. Songs jump easily from driving drums and guitars to mellow ensembles with strings and classical pianos.  Tom Yorke’s voice is ever lingering and the perfect mix of emotion. If you ever liked this band, download the new album “In Rainbows.”