"Karma Police is a great single, and quite the spirit of Ok Computer. This single includes two great B-sides as well. One thing to clear up is that this isnt a different version than any other Kamra Police, whether single or album.The first B-side on here is "Meeting in the Aisle" which is a very pretty electronica tinged instrumental, thats quite Kid A. The thing that I find the most interesting of these OK Computer singles is that they reflect whats to come for Radiohead, now that we know."Lull" is much like what we saw on The Bends, only fresher. I thought that the Bends was very similar to much other stuff by not nearly as good bands. They must've copied, but "Lull" is quite a good song.Again, this is an excellent single to have and to hold, till death do you part. Excellent intro to Radiohead or excellent way to continue with them."
For collectors only
Lin Zeppelin | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | 03/13/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"'Karma Police', track 6 of OK Computer, is an exceptionally well-crafted song. Combine that and two other great songs, including 'A Reminder' (one of the best B-side tunes available from Radiohead), and you have yourself a worthy collectible item.Take notice that I have used the phrase, 'worthy collectible item' instead of 'worthy purchase'. I say this to suggest that it is only worth buying if you are a dedicated Radiohead fan, looking to build a collection. However, a more 'worthy purchase' would be the "No Surprises/Running Away From Demons EP", as it includes the same two B-sides, plus three additional ones and one other OK Computer single."
Karma Police
Lin Zeppelin | 02/07/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This single,is arguably radiohead at their most perceptive. What makes this single work is directness of the lyric and the simplicity of the sound. The rhythm is insistent, the vocals fragile and strained, which results in a chilling record.One not to be forgotten while we are 'still on the payroll'."
This Is What YOU Should Get.
Hillary | Brooklyn, New York | 02/12/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Finally, I own that song that haunted me when I heard it on the radio! I own "The Bends", which I love, but never knew the title of the song "Karma Police" or that it was Radiohead. ................ When I worked as a radio jock, I would let my listeners know what they were hearing as often as possible. I'd hear this song, be blown away, and no jocks would announce title or band. I searched the lyric content "This Is What You Get", and "I Lost Myself" but obviously came up with nothing. I knew the title had to be something I wasn't hearing in the lyric, but what? Finally, my favorite rock station here in New York played it again. Only THIS time I wrote down the time and day it played, and called the following day. The music department was kind enough to help me solve the "Karma Police" mystery. Now that I own it, I can clearly hear Thom Yorke's beautiful voice sing "Karma Police" at the beginning of each verse. Before, I didn't catch it at all. Naturally, once you're aware, it's easy. ............ As a musician, I find Radiohead to be a truly innovative, talented and fascinating band. "Karma Police" is a unique, ethereal, haunting(!!!) compelling and dreamlike tune that I can listen to over and over and "lose myself" in its incredible beauty. I liken this song to spending time floating in a ominous sky. I think that's the intent, Karma being of the outer worldly realm. There are also the spaceship effects that fade in toward the close, and become the winding down cold ending. This creates a mood that is eerie, surreal, and ultimately magnificent. The instrumentation is wonderful too, with terrific piano work, and strong drums that move the tune along beautifully. There is also a great bass line that dominates during the fascinating tacet ending. It goes up and down the scales in a syncopated rhythm against the rest, along with the breathy background vocals that come to prominence at the close as well. I wish the ending were longer. This song builds up and up until you feel as if you are lifting off in a spaceship and going far away. All this and Thom Yorke's touchingly poignant vocals, it's BRILLIANT! A perfect musical production of a perfect song. It truly moves my soul, and no words can describe it's beauty. You must hear it for yourself. ..............This song has a strong classical influence that translated perfectly on the "OK Computer" tribute CD. However, no matter WHAT the arrangement or style in which it is played, the melody and chord pattern is truly a standout work of musical art. ..............I bought this single instead of "OK Computer" which I'll pick up eventually too, because I also like the other two cuts here as well. Best of all "Karma Police" can FINALLY take me away!!"