Classic is a word that is often tossed around inadvertently. How do we classify an album as \""classic\""? In my experience, an album that sets the stage for the musical legacy of a lifetime is certainly worth that title. \""The Bends\"" is the perfect example of an utter classic, a strong and promising LP that has aged gracefully since its glorious release in 1995. Many critics cite Radiohead as the greatest band of our generation. The question is: how did they reach that conclusion? And at what point did people say, \""Holy ***! This band is incredible!\""? At what point did I figure out that Radiohead would become my favorite band of all time? For me, The Bends was that gateway.

The Bends completely shifted the direction of Radiohead's music. Many people will point to OK Computer as their breakthrough, yet The Bends is the true starting point for the band we now know today. Pablo Honey, despite its sweetness and innocence, was a fairly underwhelming introduction to the musical entity.