Ep 1. Radiohead

The show Austin City Limits has been an esteemed showcase for the best in live music for over 40 years, with over 800 episodes under its belt. For its 38th season, the show opened with a bang with a long-awaited performance from the legendary British alternative rock band Radiohead.

Filmed live at the Moody Theater in Austin, Texas, the energy and electricity of the band's performance were palpable from the moment they hit the stage. Opening with the haunting track "Bloom" from their critically acclaimed 2011 album "The King of Limbs," Radiohead proved why they remain one of the most innovative and influential bands of the past few decades.

The ten-song setlist was a carefully crafted mix of fan-favorites and newer tracks, showcasing the band's ability to defy genre and expectation. Tracks like "Kid A," "Paranoid Android," and "15 Step" had the audience on their feet and singing along, while newer tracks like "Identikit" and "Present Tense" highlighted the band's continued relevance and evolution.

Frontman Thom Yorke's stage presence was both magnetic and enigmatic, delivering his signature falsetto in disorienting and emotional waves. Guitarist Jonny Greenwood's virtuosic skills were on full display, with his atonal melodies and experimental sounds pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in rock music. The rest of the band – Colin Greenwood on bass, Ed O'Brien on guitar, and Philip Selway on drums – were equally mesmerizing, creating a sound that was both otherworldly and deeply human.

The visuals of the show were equally impressive, with a dynamic light show and stunning projections adding to the otherworldly experience of the performance. The band played against a backdrop of ever-shifting colors and images, creating a dreamlike and surreal atmosphere that perfectly complemented their sound.

While the performance was undeniably electric, there were also moments of quiet and intimacy that showcased the band's emotional depth. During the stripped-down "Desert Island Disk," Yorke's voice was raw and vulnerable, his confessional lyrics hitting with even greater impact in the acoustic setting.

Throughout the performance, it was clear that the band was enjoying themselves, with Yorke flashing his trademark wry smile at the crowd and the band frequently breaking into impromptu jam sessions and moments of levity. It was a testament to the band's connection with each other and with their audience, a shared experience that felt truly transcendent.

Overall, Radiohead's performance on Austin City Limits was a stunning moment in both the band's career and the history of the iconic music show. It was a reminder of how powerful live music can be, and of the immense talent of a band that continues to push boundaries and challenge expectations. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come, and a perfect way to kick off another season of Austin City Limits.