Radiohead’s Transcendent Reunion Show Highlights Their Unwavering Global Importance
Three months prior, a Radiohead concert in 2025 seemed unlikely. After concluding their A Moon Shaped Pool tour in August 2018, the band engaged in various side projects. Frontman Thom Yorke and guitarist Jonny Greenwood launched three albums as The Smile, while Greenwood has composed soundtracks for several films. Yorke also released an LP with Mark Pritchard. Other members have pursued solo endeavors, leading to a long wait for fans eager to see them together again.
In a surprising turn, Radiohead took the stage at Madrid’s Movistar Arena to kick off their 2025 European tour. This marked their first performance in years and a triumphant return after their longest hiatus. They began with the iconic track “Let Down,” a fan favorite that had last opened their set in Manchester in 2017.
Radiohead’s Unique Stage Design
This performance was notable not just for its music but also for the stage setup. Radiohead performed in the round for the first time, utilizing a semi-translucent video curtain that added a layer of visual intrigue. As the curtain lifted during songs like “Bloom,” it created a spectacular atmosphere, enhancing the overall concert experience.
- Opening Song: “Let Down”
- New Drummer: Chris Vatalaro, replacing Clive Deamer
- Unique Stage Design: Semi-translucent curtain and in-the-round performance
Setlist Highlights
The band covered several tracks from their discography, focusing significantly on their 2003 album *Hail to the Thief*. Key performances included:
- “A Wolf at the Door”
- “The Gloaming”
- “Sit Down. Stand Up.” (first since 2004)
- “How to Disappear Completely”
Yorke provided stunning vocals, showcasing his range in songs like “A Wolf at the Door” and “Ful Stop.” The band’s ability to deliver these classics reaffirmed their enduring talent in the music industry.
The Band’s Evolution and Future
This tour does not coincide with a new album release. It marks their first series of shows since being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. The band faced numerous challenges that nearly halted their return, including grief and internal tensions over current global issues.
Yorke’s brief address to the audience—“Fair enough”—was both a nod to their longstanding legacy and an acknowledgment of their evolution into classic rock. The band plans to keep setlists fresh, promising different songs at each concert.
Conclusion
Radiohead has proven their global significance through this reunion tour, reconnecting with fans old and new. Their unique approach to performances continues to elevate them as one of the most innovative bands in music today.
