The slinky alternative song “Default” is an Atoms for Peace song that can be listened to at any occasion. Play it loud at a glowstick party or listen to it alone in the dead of night. Either way, it fits. And either way, the song is a twitchy and tense ride that might leave you feeling a little cold. Truly a Thom Yorke piece.
“Default” begins with a glitchy electronic run that stays keeps going strong until the very end. It’s dancey and trancey and gloriously seductive. Behind it begins steadily drawn-out synth notes, cinematic sweeps, and syncopated drums. It is this drum work that brings the song to life. While it is almost too perfect and repetitive to be real, sounding very much like one of those drum loops that are made on the computer, it works in the song’s favor. It completes the futuristic intentions of the writer.
Above all this, vocalist Thom Yorke sings in the most R&B sounding way. He’s whispering and crooning and somehow it doesn’t clash with the harsh, electric sounds that make up the rest of the track. Actually, it is a perfect match.
Alternative band Atoms for Peace is truly an eclectic supergroup. I say that because of the high-caliber members that have come together to work with Thom Yorke. Yorke is himself very well known for another band, Radiohead. Have you heard of it? Not to be overshadowed, the bassist working with Atoms for Peace is Flea, who spends a lot of his time being amazing bassist of Red Hot Chili Peppers. Drummer Joey Waronker has played with Beck and R.E.M., guitarist/keyboardist Nigel Godrich is the longtime Radiohead producer, and Brazilian percussionist Mauro Refosco has also played with Red Hot Chili Peppers, making this group very experienced and talented.
Now you know why Atoms for Peace is referred to as a supergroup.
This song is only a stepping-stone for Atoms for Peace, though. After a few plays, its simplicity leaves the listener wanting more and the lack of any obvious Flea influence becomes disappointing. But it’s just too addictive and sexy to ignore and I take it as a good sign that Atoms for Peace’s upcoming album release will be incredible.