DRILL

This is the first commercial release for the band under the name of Radiohead and it contains demo versions 4 songs in an EP format. Yes it is short, but I can't help to find it quite satisfying, even considering that the songs are demo versions. Three of these songs would end up being re-recorded and released on the album Pablo Honey. "Stupid Car" is the one song not included on their first full album. If you are familiar with the other songs on here, and if you are a fan of the band, you will want to check this release out to hear how these songs all started out, especially "Something About You" which ends up being a very fast song on this EP, but I find it has it's own charm and should not be ignored. In fact, I don't think any of these versions should be ignored, especially the song that isn't on "Pablo Honey". "Stupid Car" is a beautiful and highly emotional ballad and demonstrates Thom Yorke's amazing vocal talent and effectively exhibits the dynamic use of his voice.

As I said before, this is Radiohead's first commercial release, but for those listeners who can't get enough, who want to explore more "Pre-Radiohead" tracks, search for tracks by "On A Friday" (there are at least 4 demos out there and most of them are songs you haven't heard) and "Manic Hedgehog" (at least one short demo). These are names Radiohead used before finally settling on the one that made them popular. There are some duds, but most of them are quite good and many will surprise you ("Is that really Radiohead?"). Some will give insight into what Radiohead would become even in later years.

Is this EP worth my time and trouble? It depends on how much of a Radiohead fan you are. To me, these songs are gems and the EP is way too short, yet the songs are still great. To me it's definitely worth getting to know these songs. Just as a warning though, there is no prog rock on this EP, only straightforward rockers, so I have to settle for 3 stars here.