Radiohead Launches European Tour in Madrid After Seven-Year Hiatus

After a seven-year performance hiatus, Radiohead kicked off their 2025 European tour yesterday in Madrid, Spain, marking a significant moment for fans who had begun to doubt a reunion was possible.

The band opened with “Let Down,” a track from their seminal 1997 album OK Computer, which recently re-entered the Billboard Hot 100 thanks to its popularity on TikTok. The concert featured a new lineup with drummer and percussionist Chris Vatalaro, a frequent collaborator with Phil Selway, and a groundbreaking in-the-round stage setup utilizing a semi-translucent video curtain. Notably, the band performed six songs from their 2003 album, Hail to the Thief, including “Sit Down. Stand Up.” for the first time since 2004.

Frontman Thom Yorke addressed the crowd briefly during the encore, stating simply, “Fair enough,” before launching into a rendition of “Fake Plastic Trees.” The setlist also included staples like “Paranoid Android,” “Karma Police,” and a moving performance of “How to Disappear Completely.” The return of Radiohead is particularly noteworthy given recent challenges, including grief, mental health concerns, and internal discussions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, which nearly prevented the tour from happening. The band’s willingness to revisit older material represents a shift from their previous reluctance, signaling a new chapter for the iconic group – you can explore their discography further on their official website.

Radiohead’s return to the stage is a welcome development for music fans worldwide, and the band plans to vary the setlist each night throughout the tour. Yorke reportedly circulated a 65-song list for rehearsals, indicating a commitment to delivering a dynamic experience for audiences.