Review of Atoms For Peace's debut album "Amok"

Radiohead's frontman and primary driving force Thom Yorke formed the Los Angeles supergroup Atoms For Peace back in late 2009. He sings and plays both guitar and piano: the other members include Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Flea on bass, Radiohead producer Nigel Goodrich on synths and keyboards, Beck and R.E.M.’s Joey Waronker on drums and Brazilian Mauro Refosco on percussion. The group’s debut album Amok - released February 25th on English indie label XL Recordings - sounds more accessible than Yorke’s 2006 solo effort The Eraser: the intricately clicking, minimalist electronic-rock arrangements are most reminiscent of that album’s singles “Analyse” and “Harrowdown Hill.” Flea’s bass weaves surprisingly smoothly through the experimental mix, sounding funky in a way that’s far more cerebral than screamingly festive.

Atoms For Peace - Default Atoms For Peace - Default

My favorite tracks include the darkly minimalist computer-blip-into-sunset-swell “Default” and the haunting, kinetic “Judge, Jury and Executioner.” More highlights for me include the lively electronic rainforest atmosphere of “Ingenue” and the juxtaposition of lively percussion atop the stark funereal synth of “Unless.” Overall, this album is a promising sign for things to come from this project: experimental electronic rock that’s easy to get hooked on.