The Smile, the band composed of Radiohead‘s Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood, alongside drummer Tom Skinner, invite us into a haunting affair with their latest release, “Wall Of Eyes,” the title track from their forthcoming second album. Departing from the bombast of their last album, the song unfolds gently, revealing a soft and graceful foundation. Paul Thomas Anderson‘s time-lapse video mirrors the song’s dreamy essence. Here, Yorke navigates bustling streets with an unchanging expression, masking a growing unease.
The hypnotic melody, presented in an unexpected 5/4 time signature, weaves between sensitivity and complexity. Yorke‘s vocals delicately tiptoe over intricate instrumentation, creating an immersive, hypnotic sound. The track’s raw, unpolished guitar production, intentionally authentic, contributes to an eerie atmosphere and genuine emotion.
Lyrically, “Wall Of Eyes” delves into introspection, exploring themes of identity and self-perception. The repeated refrain, “I try, but it don’t go away,” vividly portrays a struggle, painting a picture of a journey “down a peg or two” behind a metaphorical “wall of eyes.” The emotive delivery reflects the singer’s commendable approach to vulnerability. The band’s musical prowess shines, offering a blend of tight musicianship, creative production decisions, and unexpected melodic meanderings. The song’s initial peaceful facade crumbles, disrupted by achromatic, arrhythmic electric guitar lines—a signature move reminiscent of Yorke and Greenwood at their best with that other band.
“Wall Of Eyes” offers a glimpse into The Smile‘s upcoming album, promising a unique exploration of authenticity and introspection. The trio continues to evolve, proving this is more than a mere side project, this is beautiful yet beautifully fucked music where haunting melodies and complex narratives await.
‘Wall Of Eyes‘ will be released on 26th January on XL Recordings
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