Critics' Choice 1997

1. Radiohead Ok Computer [parlophone]
The Bends had indisputably killer songs, but the Oxford quintet’s third album rejoiced (if that’s the word) in a crushingly claustrophobic sci-fi/dystopian atmosphere. Songs like ‘Airbag’, ‘Paranoid Android’ and ‘Subterranean Homesick Alien’ seemed to channel JG Ballard’s most pessimistic visions through a musical prism that acknowledged Krautrock, King Crimson, electric Miles and even The Beatles.
2. The Verve – Urban Hymns [hut]
3. Teenage Fanclub – Songs From Northern Britain [sony]
4. Spiritualized – Ladies & Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space [dedicated]
5. Fountains Of Wayne – Fountains Of Wayne [virgin]