Radiohead - Fake Plastic Tree (early)

About This Footage

The clip that's been circulating online is an early take on Radiohead's iconic track "Fake Plastic Tree". What's striking about this footage isn't just its rarity – it's the glimpse into the band's creative process during a pivotal moment in their career. Filmed in 1995, when Radiohead was still riding high on the success of their breakthrough album "The Bends", this clip showcases the band's willingness to experiment and push boundaries.

At the time, Radiohead was already gaining momentum in the UK alternative scene, but they were still finding their footing as a live act. The band members – Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Ed O'Brien, Colin Greenwood, and Philip Selway – had been touring extensively since 1992, honing their sound and style. This early take on "Fake Plastic Tree" captures the essence of their live performances during this period: raw, energetic, and unpolished.

What makes this clip rare is its candid portrayal of Radiohead's creative process. The footage is rough around the edges – it's a rehearsal or an early performance, with the band still ironing out the kinks in their setlist. But despite its amateurish quality, the energy and tension are palpable. Thom Yorke's vocals are raw and emotive, Jonny Greenwood's guitar work is already distinctive, and Ed O'Brien's rhythm playing provides a solid foundation.

The clip also highlights Radiohead's willingness to take risks and challenge their fans' expectations. The song "Fake Plastic Tree" wouldn't be released until 1999 on their critically-acclaimed album "OK Computer", but this early version shows the band was already experimenting with new sounds and themes. This period of creative exploration would eventually yield some of Radiohead's most innovative work, cementing their status as one of the most influential bands of the past few decades.

Watching this clip, a viewer will be struck by the band's intensity and passion. Despite the rough production quality, the performance is captivating – Thom Yorke's stage presence is already evident, and the rest of the band follows suit. It's clear that Radiohead was on the cusp of something special during this period, and this early take on "Fake Plastic Tree" offers a glimpse into their creative DNA.

The significance of this clip extends beyond its rarity or historical interest. It also underscores the importance of live performances in shaping an artist's sound and style. Radiohead's early tours were crucial in developing their unique sonic identity, and this footage captures the raw energy and experimentation that defined those shows. By watching this clip, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the band's creative process and the factors that contributed to their enduring success.

Ultimately, "Fake Plastic Tree" (early) is more than just a rare clip – it's a window into Radiohead's formative years as a live act. It showcases the band's willingness to take risks, experiment with new sounds, and push the boundaries of what was possible in alternative rock at the time. By watching this footage, fans can experience the raw energy and creative intensity that defined one of the most influential bands of the past few decades.

Curated from public records and music databases.