After a long hiatus of seven years, Radiohead has officially kicked off their highly anticipated tour at Madrid’s Movistar Arena. The band, known for their innovative sound and compelling live performances, took to a circular stage that enveloped the audience in a mesmerizing auditory experience. The three-time Grammy winners captivated fans with a rich, 25-song setlist that spanned their extensive discography.
The setlist featured a diverse array of tracks from some of Radiohead's most celebrated albums, including The Bends (1995), OK Computer (1997), Kid A (2000), Amnesiac (2001), Hail to the Thief (2003), In Rainbows (2007), The King of Limbs (2011), and A Moon Shaped Pool (2016). This eclectic mix allowed long-time fans and newcomers alike to experience the evolution of the band’s music over the years.
The fan reaction to the show has been overwhelmingly positive across social media platforms, with many attendees sharing their excitement and admiration for the performance. Colin Greenwood, the band's bassist, shared insights into the tour during an appearance on The Adam Buxton Podcast. In a show recorded in April and released in September, he mentioned, “It’s going to be the first time we’ve done shows where I think we haven’t got new material to play as work-in-progress.” This statement emphasizes the band's focus on their established hits rather than new songs, which adds a unique charm to the current tour.
Greenwood further elaborated on the tour's relaxed vibe, stating, “We’re not doing that many rehearsals, either, so it all seems to be quite relaxed.” This laid-back approach is likely contributing to the overall enjoyment of both the band and the fans as they embark on this new chapter.
During this current tour, Radiohead is set to perform four-night residencies in various cities. Following their shows in Madrid, the band will head to the Unipol Arena in Bologna, Italy, followed by performances at The O2 in London and the Royal Arena in Copenhagen. The tour will culminate in a grand finale on December 12 at the Uber Arena in Berlin.
Here’s the complete setlist from the opening night:
Let Down 2+2=5 Sit Down. Stand Up. (Snakes & Ladders) Bloom Lucky Ful Stop The Gloaming. (Softly Open Our Mouths in the Cold) Myxomatosis. (Judge, Jury & Executioner) No Surprises Videotape Weird Fishes/Arpeggi Everything in Its Right Place 15 Step The National Anthem Daydreaming A Wolf at the Door. (It Girl. Rag Doll) Bodysnatchers IdiotequeThis memorable performance marks a significant return for Radiohead, and fans are eagerly anticipating what the rest of the tour will bring.