Full Breakdown
Radiohead Kicks Off Long-Awaited European Comeback Tour
11/5/2025, 12:33:46 AM
Overview of the Comeback Tour
Radiohead has officially commenced their first European tour in over seven years, with the opening concert taking place on November 4, 2025, at Madrid's Movistar Arena. This tour includes 20 sold-out dates across major cities such as Bologna, London, Copenhagen, and Berlin, with four performances scheduled in each location. The band has not performed together since their 'A Moon Shaped Pool' world tour concluded in 2018.
Merchandise Launch
In conjunction with the tour, Radiohead has unveiled a new merchandise line available through their W.A.S.T.E. store. The collection features a variety of items, including hoodies, t-shirts, hats, and posters, many of which draw inspiration from the band's extensive discography and collaborations with artist Stanley Donwood. Fans in Madrid had the opportunity to browse the merchandise outside the venue prior to the concert.
Setlist and Performance Style
The Madrid concert featured a dynamic setlist of 25 songs, showcasing tracks from nearly all nine of their studio albums. The performance opened with "Let Down" from the critically acclaimed album *OK Computer* and included fan favorites such as "Karma Police" and "Idioteque." Notably, the band performed "Sit Down. Stand Up." for the first time since 2004 and "Subterranean Homesick Alien" for the first time since 2017. The band adopted a "busking approach" to their setlist, having rehearsed over 65 songs, and performed in the round, allowing for an immersive experience for the audience.
Band Members' Reflections
In a recent interview, band members reflected on their hiatus and the emotional challenges they faced during this period. Frontman Thom Yorke discussed the need for personal healing following the death of his first wife, Dr. Rachel Owen, while drummer Philip Selway emphasized the importance of reconnecting with their musical identity. Despite the excitement surrounding the tour, the band members have not committed to new music, with Greenwood stating, “We haven’t thought past the tour.”
Controversies and Criticism
The band has faced scrutiny regarding their past performances in Israel, particularly following a 2017 concert in Tel Aviv. Yorke has expressed a strong stance against performing in Israel again, citing concerns over the political climate, while Greenwood has faced backlash for his collaborations with Israeli musicians. This controversy has led to calls for boycotts of the tour, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Some fans expressed disappointment over the band's handling of these issues, while others defended their long-standing commitment to activism.
Audience Reception and Anticipation
The opening night in Madrid was met with enthusiasm from fans, many of whom had traveled long distances to attend. The concert's atmosphere was charged with excitement, as attendees reflected on the band's significant impact on music over the years. The tour is expected to continue generating buzz as Radiohead performs across Europe, with fans eager to experience their unique sound and artistry live once again.
What's Next
Following the Madrid shows, Radiohead will continue their tour with performances scheduled in Bologna, London, Copenhagen, and Berlin, concluding on December 12, 2025. As they navigate this comeback, the band remains focused on delivering memorable performances while reflecting on their past and the complexities of their public persona.
