I've finally come to terms with something that’s been hard to accept. After watching and reading all of Ed O’Brien’s recent interviews, I’ve started to believe we’re probably never getting another Radiohead album. That’s a tough pill to swallow. I’m 48 years old, and I’ve been a Radiohead fan since the late ‘90s. I still have all the box sets, CDs, vinyl, and other memorabilia I’ve collected over the years. Their music has been tied to so many different chapters of my life that realizing this chapter may truly be over is surprisingly emotional. For a long time, I assumed the holdup was mostly Thom and Jonny—that they were the driving force behind the band and that another record would happen whenever they were ready. But after hearing Ed speak over the past year, I get the impression that he’s genuinely fulfilled making his own music and exploring other creative outlets. That really changed my perspective. Could they reunite someday? Absolutely. I hope they do. But if I’m being realistic, I’m no longer expecting another studio album.
Interestingly, over the last 10 years I’ve become a huge Tame Impala fan, and they’ve gradually taken over as my favorite band. Maybe that’s my way of filling the void, knowing that Radiohead may never release another album. Like Radiohead, Kevin Parker isn’t afraid to experiment, evolve, and completely change directions from one album to the next. That willingness to push boundaries is what made me fall in love with Radiohead in the first place, and it’s a big reason why Tame Impala resonates with me so much. One thing I especially love is that Tame Impala still embraces physical media. He continues to release beautiful collectible vinyl editions and deluxe box sets. As someone who grew up buying CDs and collecting albums, the physical side of music has always been incredibly important to me. There’s just something special about opening a new record, looking through the artwork, reading the liner notes, and having something tangible to connect with. I’m really glad Kevin is keeping that tradition alive, much like Radiohead did for so many years.
Ironically, all of this has had me revisiting In Rainbows, The King of Limbs, and A Moon Shaped Pool on repeat over the past year. Those albums have taken on even more meaning for me.
I’m curious what everyone else thinks. Have Ed’s recent interviews changed your outlook, or do you still believe we’ll eventually get another Radiohead album? Lastly, I love Ed's new album!
