The guitarist from Thom Yorke’s band unveils the self-titled track from his upcoming album “Blue Morpho” and shares updates about Radiohead’s forthcoming shows.
Ed O’Brien has officially announced the release of his second solo album, titled Blue Morpho, slated for May 22 on Transgressive Records. To accompany the announcement, he unveiled the lead single from the album, the title track Blue Morpho, accompanied by a music video. The new record, produced by Paul Epworth and Riley Macintyre, was recorded between The Church studios in London and the musician’s personal studio in Wales. The album is anticipated to be rich in collaborations, featuring the participation of Shabaka Hutchings, Dave Okumu, Radiohead’s drummer Philip Selway, and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra.
This project marks a significant milestone in the artist’s career. In 2020, he released his debut album, Earth, under the moniker EOB. Released at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, that record left O’Brien with a sense of unfinished business, and he subsequently endured a deep depression that ultimately led him to Blue Morpho.
News from Radiohead
While 2026 will be dedicated to his solo career, Ed O’Brien does not forget his ever-present band. In an interview granted to Rolling Stone, the guitarist offered further details about Radiohead’s future.
Fans will need to exercise patience: Radiohead will not hit the road again before 2027. O’Brien told Rolling Stone that there are no plans for activity this year, but the group now aims to adopt a more regular and humane touring pace. The idea would be to visit a different continent each year for a tour strictly limited to twenty shows. This new strategy seeks to prioritize quality and avoid “falling into a mechanical routine,” while acknowledging that the band members are “not twenty anymore.”
Ed O’Brien, Blue Morpho is set for release on May 22 through Transgressive Records.
