Radiohead

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Who's in the bunker? Who's in the bunker?
Women and children first, and the children first, and the children
I'll laugh until my head comes off
I'll swallow 'til I burst, until I burst, until I
Who's in the bunker? Who's in the bunker?
I have seen too much, you haven't seen enough, you haven't seen it
I'll laugh until my head comes off
Women and children first, and children first, and children

[Chorus]
Here I'm alive
Everything all of the time
Here I'm alive
Everything all of the time

[Verse 2]
Ice Age coming, Ice Age coming
Let me hear both sides, let me hear both sides, let me hear both
Ice Age coming, Ice Age coming
Throw him in the fire, throw him in the fire, throw him on the
We're not scaremongering
This is really happening, happening
We're not scaremongering
This is really happening, happening
Mobiles skwerking, mobiles chirping
Take the money and run, take the money and run, take the money
[Chorus]
Here I'm alive
Everything all of the time
Here I'm alive
Everything all of the time
Here I'm alive
Everything all of the time
Here I'm alive
Everything all of the time
[Outro]
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the childre-)
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the ch-) (first)
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the childre-)
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the ch-) (first)
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the childre-)
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the ch-) (first)
(-n first) (And the childre-) (-n first) (And the childre-)

Radiohead has been a defining voice in alternative rock since the 90s, but their departure album Kid A is where they truly pushed their art into a new and experimental direction. And “Idioteque” is possibly the best example of this. This electronic masterpiece delves into the paranoia surrounding the destructive nature of technology and the impact of our actions on the world at large. But what to dive into these ideas further?

About Idioteque

“Idioteque” is the eighth track on Radiohead’s Kid A album, and it marks a sharp contrast from their previous sound. The departure from their earlier style reflects the band’s experimentation with electronic beats and instruments. The song’s central theme is the frenzied perception of technology and how it affects humanity, taking the listeners on a journey of paranoia, pain, and sorrow brought about by our actions. It warns the world of the effects of nuclear war and global warming, with chaotic experimental soundscapes that build a mood of imminent destruction.

The samples in the background of “Idioteque” come from minimalist composers Paul Lansky and Arthur Kreiger, the latter of whom is now a music professor at Connecticut College. These diverse samples are masterfully integrated into the song’s soundscape, creating a dense and immersive environment for the listener to delve into.

The song's title, "Idioteque," holds multiple meanings, each adding another layer to the song. It could refer to a collection of "idiots" or peculiarities in people since "idio" can mean "peculiarity" or "idiocy." Alternatively, it could refer to a discotheque run by "idiots," as a metaphor for the world dancing and ignoring the impending doom that technological progression can bring.

Radiohead's Masterpiece

 

From the get-go, listeners are drawn into “Idioteque” by the song's chord progression and unique beats. The soundscapes simulate a bleak world within which nuclear war and climate change have brought about the end of humanity. The song's experimental structure highlights Thom Yorke’s hauntingly emotional voice, which trembles with anguish over this dystopian world.

“Idioteque" marks a significant departure from Radiohead's previous alternative rock sound, but the experiment is a clear success. The jarring soundscapes paint a vivid picture of the impending doom that our society faces. Radiohead’s electronic experimentation is precise and palpable, producing a soundscape that provokes a range of emotions from the listener, including fear, sadness, and an overwhelming sense of distress.

The samples from Paul Lansky and Arthur Kreiger epitomize the use of sound samples in electronic music. The samples seamlessly blend into the soundscape, underpinning the theme of provoking emotions within listeners through a combination of jarring beats and sonic unpredictability. The moody electronic current of “Idioteque” intermingles with the piercing, emotion-laden vocals to create a musical experience that is both unique and thought-provoking.

The problem of technology

"Idioteque" tackles the problems associated with progress in society. The song aptly highlights our inclination towards worshipping mechanical innovation at the expense of our natural environment. Radiohead's warning is clear: we must be conscious of our actions and consider the consequences carefully.

The song's caution is especially poignant today as we face the threats of climate change and the potential destruction it can bring on our planet. The thought-provoking lyrics serve as a reminder of the consequences of failing to take adequate care of our planet.

“Idioteque” is a stirring song that continues to leave an impression on fans even years after its release. The exploratory electronic soundscapes, Thom Yorke's emotional, thought-provoking lyrics, and its themes remain relevant, making it as resonant today as it was upon release.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a song to make you consider the challenges humanity faces and to urge you to take steps to address them, "Idioteque" is the perfect track for you. It’s a compelling musical statement, defying the boundaries of musical genres and setting a high standard for electronic experimentation. As the messages of "Idioteque" resonate with audiences worldwide, it remains one of Radiohead’s greatest songs and a valuable asset to music lovers and those interested in environmental advocacy.

• Release Date: October 2, 2000
• Artist: Radiohead