A Moon Shaped Pool

Radiohead returned in May 2016 with A Moon Shaped Pool, their ninth studio effort released through XL Recordings. The record emerged from sessions at RAK Studios, their Oxford base, and the La Fabrique studio in France, blending art rock textures with lush arrangements by Jonny Greenwood and the London Contemporary Orchestra. Songs like Burn the Witch and True Love Waits sat in archives for years before finding a home on this twelve-track collection. Thom Yorke channels personal heartbreak alongside broader anxieties about climate change and societal conformity throughout the lyrics. Stanley Donwood crafted the cover art by exposing his paintings to the elements, mirroring the album's raw emotional landscape.

Promotion included striking videos for Burn the Witch and Daydreaming, alongside a viral postcard campaign that hinted at the band's isolationist themes. Live performances followed across three years, featuring headline slots at Glastonbury and Coachella, though a Tel Aviv show sparked controversy regarding cultural boycotts. Critics recognized the work immediately, naming it a top album of both the year and decade. It earned nominations for Best Alternative Music Album and Best Rock Song at the Grammys while securing number one spots in multiple countries. The record achieved platinum status in the UK and Canada, proving its resonance with audiences worldwide. [edit]