Ed O’Brien’s Solo LP and 2027 Radiohead Tour Plans Take Shape

Ed O’Brien gears up for his new solo album and teases a fresh chapter for Radiohead with a 2027 world tour.

Ed O’Brien’s Long-Awaited Solo Return: Blue Morpho

After a seven-year hiatus and a whirlwind reunion tour with Radiohead in late 2025, guitarist Ed O’Brien is stepping boldly into the spotlight with his second solo album, Blue Morpho. Produced by the acclaimed Paul Epworth, this album is set to drop on May 22 under the Transgressive label. Already, the title track has fans buzzing with its captivating soundscape, offering a taste of what’s to come.

Ed O'Brien (photo: Steve Gullick).

Creating Blue Morpho was no easy task. O’Brien crafted the album during what he describes as the darkest period of his life, battling severe depression. According to a press release, he adopted a transformative daily routine inspired by Wim Hof’s breathing techniques and cold exposure methods. This regimen became a lifeline as O’Brien retreated into his intimate London studio, spending hours on end playing guitar—pushing until his "brain began to fray." This raw immersion channeled deep emotion and vulnerability into the music, making the album a soulful exploration of resilience.

Collaborations and Inspirations Behind Blue Morpho

The making of Blue Morpho blossomed through some serendipitous collaborations. O’Brien’s connection with producer Paul Epworth was unexpectedly strengthened through their children attending the same school. This personal link brought fresh warmth and creativity to the sessions. Engineer Riley MacIntyre also played a pivotal role, ensuring the technical polish matched the emotional depth.

Adding to the album’s rich texture, Radiohead’s drummer Phil Selway lent his rhythmic expertise on two tracks, maintaining that familiar heartbeat Radiohead fans cherish. Saxophonist Shabaka Hutchings contributed flute parts, sparked by a chance conversation about acoustics with O’Brien at the iconic Glastonbury Festival. This blend of talents created a layered, immersive sound world.

The orchestral arrangements were crafted by Estonian composer Tõnu Kõrvits, performed by the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, adding a cinematic sweep to the album’s sound. And for sequencing advice, the legendary UK producer Flood—known for his work with U2 and PJ Harvey—offered his invaluable input, rounding out the album’s impeccable production.

To complement the album, there’s also a short film titled The Three Act Play. While details remain under wraps, O’Brien promises it will enrich the experience of Blue Morpho, giving fans more ways to dive into his solo artistry.

Radiohead’s Future: 2027 Tour and New Rhythms

While O’Brien’s solo work offers a fresh chapter, he also dropped an exciting teaser for Radiohead fans during an interview at South by Southwest. The band plans to embark on a global tour in 2027, promising to tour in a new, balanced way: 20 shows annually, each on a different continent. His words were clear and deliberate: “No more, no less.” This approach speaks to a sustainable rhythm, allowing the band to keep their creative energies fresh while reaching worldwide audiences.

Though no official concepts or themes for the tour have been revealed yet, this news alone has fans eagerly awaiting what Radiohead will unveil next.

Standing Up for Their Art: Radiohead’s Response to Misuse

In a recent social media statement, Radiohead voiced their disapproval after an unauthorized choral version of their classic “Let Down” was used in a U.S. Immigration and Enforcement Control Instagram post. The band’s response was sharp and unequivocal:

This song means a lot to us and other people, and you don’t get to appropriate it without a fight. Also, go fuck yourselves.

This stance highlights Radiohead’s commitment to protecting the integrity of their music and its meaning, reminding us all that art carries weight and intention that deserves respect.

Ed O’Brien’s solo venture into Blue Morpho is a heartfelt journey through darkness into healing, backed by incredible collaborators and a cinematic scope. Meanwhile, Radiohead’s promise of a 2027 global tour marks an exciting new chapter for one of music’s most influential bands. What are your thoughts on O’Brien’s solo work or the band’s new touring plans?

FAQ

• What inspired Ed O’Brien’s new album Blue Morpho?
  O’Brien created the album during a difficult period battling depression, using Wim Hof’s breathing and cold exposure techniques to cope and channel his emotions through his music.
• Who produced Blue Morpho?
  The album was produced by Paul Epworth, known for his work with prominent artists across genres.
• Are any Radiohead members involved in the album?
  Yes, Radiohead’s drummer Phil Selway plays drums on two tracks on Blue Morpho.
• What is unique about Radiohead’s 2027 touring plan?
  Radiohead plans to tour 20 shows annually, each on a different continent, striking a balance between global reach and sustainable touring.
• Is there any extra content with Blue Morpho?
  Yes, the album will be accompanied by a short film called The Three Act Play, which will be released with more details soon.

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