In what can only be described as a monumental return to the stage, Radiohead launched their 2025 world tour in Manchester on Tuesday night, delivering a performance that reminded everyone why they remain one of Britain's most innovative and beloved bands.
A Setlist That Spanned Eras
The two-hour spectacle at Manchester's AO Arena saw Thom Yorke and company masterfully navigate their extensive catalogue, treating fans to a carefully curated selection that balanced iconic anthems with unexpected treasures. The evening began with the atmospheric tension of 'Everything in Its Right Place,' immediately establishing the hypnotic mood that would define the night.
Highlights included:
- Rare live performances of 'Lift' and 'Man of War' from their OK Computer era
- A stunning acoustic rendition of 'True Love Waits' that silenced the arena
- The explosive energy of 'There There' and '2 + 2 = 5'
- A four-song encore culminating in the haunting 'Street Spirit (Fade Out)'
Evolution of Sound
Long-time followers noted subtle but significant evolutions in the band's approach to their classic material. Jonny Greenwood's guitar work on 'Paranoid Android' featured new textures, while Colin Selway's bass lines on 'The National Anthem' felt more prominent and driving than ever before.
'We're not the same people we were in 1997,' Yorke remarked between songs, 'and these songs aren't the same either. They've grown with us.'
Production That Dazzled
The visual production complemented the musical journey perfectly, with state-of-the-art lighting and projection mapping creating an immersive experience. During 'Idioteque,' abstract patterns danced across multiple screens, while 'Pyramid Song' was accompanied by ethereal underwater visuals that captivated the audience.
As the final notes of 'Street Spirit' faded into applause, it was clear that Radiohead's 2025 tour isn't merely a victory lap – it's a bold statement that their creative fire burns as brightly as ever.
