Thom Yorke reportedly wrote "Pyramid Song" and "Everything in its Right Place" during the
same week. And music was never the same again...Seriously, for all the hype generated by
Kid A, "Pyramid Song" has always been the best track to come out of that period in the
band's career. A haunting and sophisticated off-kilter series of piano chords cuts through
an ocean of other instruments, providing harmonic richness that few bands could dream of.
The track also features an extraordinarily 'chill' and jazzy drum feel that kicks in
halfway through, along with a sweeping orchestral score. The music is easily enough to prop
up Thom's masterful lyrics - which prophetically lament the disappearing polar icecaps and
warn of rising sea levels - all through imagery from a purported dream. Careful listening
reveals quintessential elements of peak Yorke and peak Greenwood (Johnny) at play in the
composition here, not to mention a flawless performance by the entire band. It's no wonder
that multiple members of the band have cited "Pyramid Song" as their finest work.And
finally, it's worth noting here that climate change is a common thread in several prominent
Radiohead anthems: "Pyramid Song," "Sail to the Moon," "Fake Plastic Trees,"
and...heck...*all* of The King of Limbs.
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