← Back

OK Computer

by Radiohead

Released: May 21, 1997

Art rock, alternative rock

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Experimental Album.

The Album

"OK Computer" is the third studio album by English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997. Featuring tracks such as "Paranoid Android," "Karma Police," and "No Surprises," "OK Computer" showcases Radiohead's evolution from their earlier alternative rock sound to a more experimental and electronic direction. The album's songs are characterized by complex arrangements, layered instrumentation, and frontman Thom Yorke's haunting vocals.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Lyrically, "OK Computer" explores themes of alienation, technology…

Lyrically, "OK Computer" explores themes of alienation, technology, consumerism, and the dehumanizing effects of modern society.

The album's dystopian vision of the future struck…

The album's dystopian vision of the future struck a chord with listeners, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the late 20th century.

With its groundbreaking sound and visionary themes, "OK…

With its groundbreaking sound and visionary themes, "OK Computer" continues to be celebrated as a masterpiece of alternative rock and a defining album of the 1990s.

Start listening here

Essential Tracks

Paranoid Android

Karma Police

No Surprises

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Radiohead - OK Computer

Open in Albums Gallery

Then

Reception

The album was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning Radiohead a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. "OK Computer" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its ambitious scope, innovative production, and profound lyricism.

Now

Legacy

The album is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential albums of all time, known for its innovative sound, thought-provoking lyrics, and dystopian themes. Its influence can be heard in countless bands and artists across a wide range of genres, cementing its legacy as one of the most important albums in music history.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"OK Computer" is the third studio album by English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997. The album is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential albums of all time, known for its innovative sound, thought-provoking lyrics, and dystopian themes.

Featuring tracks such as "Paranoid Android," "Karma Police," and "No Surprises," "OK Computer" showcases Radiohead's evolution from their earlier alternative rock sound to a more experimental and electronic direction. The album's songs are characterized by complex arrangements, layered instrumentation, and frontman Thom Yorke's haunting vocals.

Lyrically, "OK Computer" explores themes of alienation, technology, consumerism, and the dehumanizing effects of modern society. The album's dystopian vision of the future struck a chord with listeners, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the late 20th century.

"OK Computer" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its ambitious scope, innovative production, and profound lyricism. The album was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning Radiohead a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album.

With its groundbreaking sound and visionary themes, "OK Computer" continues to be celebrated as a masterpiece of alternative rock and a defining album of the 1990s. Its influence can be heard in countless bands and artists across a wide range of genres, cementing its legacy as one of the most important albums in music history.