Radiohead

The Bends

First released1994

The Bends was recorded primarily at RAK Studios in London between 1996 and 1997, with additional sessions at other facilities. The album was produced by John Leckie, who had previously worked with the band on Pablo Honey, alongside the band members themselves. The recording marked a transition from their debut's grunge-influenced sound toward a more guitar-driven alternative rock approach, featuring live instrumentation and tighter production than its predecessor. Leckie's production choices emphasized the band's instrumental capabilities and songwriting development during a period when Radiohead were establishing themselves as major artists beyond the success of "Creep." The album was released in March 1997 and served as a bridge between their early work and the experimental direction they would pursue on OK Computer.