In a recent retrospective on Radiohead’s storied discography, guitarist Jonny Greenwood has identified a specific track he once hoped to radically reimagine. Speaking with Mojo Magazine, Greenwood revealed that he initially advocated for a significantly different sonic direction for the In Rainbows standout, "House of Cards."
Greenwood admitted that during the recording sessions, he was convinced the track required a more aggressive, punk-oriented arrangement. “There are songs I feel like we could have better arrangements for, but everyone else seems to like. I was convinced that 'House of Cards' should sound like an Iggy Pop track,” he explained. Despite his initial push for a grittier aesthetic, the multi-instrumentalist—who also performs with the Smile—now concedes that the band’s decision to maintain the song's atmospheric restraint was the correct one. “I can accept that it would probably have killed something beautiful and tender,” he added.
Beyond individual track reflections, Greenwood touched upon the band’s recent return to the stage. Following a lengthy hiatus, Radiohead embarked on a series of live dates across Europe in late 2025, including a highly acclaimed residency at London’s O2 Arena. Greenwood described the experience as “incredible,” noting the unique chemistry that remains within the group. “You hear of other bands getting together and having multiple managers and multiple sound people. We seem very blessed,” he remarked.
The band’s future remains a subject of intense speculation among fans. In February, all five members formed a new private limited company, a move often interpreted as a precursor to new projects or tours. While their last full-length studio effort, A Moon Shaped Pool, was released in 2016, the members have remained prolific individually. Greenwood himself recently received an Oscar nomination for his work on the score for One Battle After Another.
Guitarist Ed O’Brien has also provided glimpses into the band’s long-term strategy, suggesting a structured approach to future performances. O’Brien indicated that Radiohead plans to tour different continents annually starting in 2027, limiting themselves to 20 shows per year. Meanwhile, frontman Thom Yorke is reportedly preparing a new solo album for release later this year, further highlighting the creative vitality of the band's individual members even as they navigate their collective future.