Junior Anna Thornton has recently been listening to “Man of War” by Radiohead. 

“It’s a very nice blend of soundtrack, but also it’s rock because it’s Radiohead,” Thornton said.  “You have electric guitar, and then you have violin.”

The song lyrics can be easily interpreted as they follow the song’s title. “Man of War” tells the narrative of a woman reuniting with her military husband, her man of war, as he comes home from the front. Despite this direct interpretation, the song can also be interpreted as a longing to find something more heartfelt in your life and waiting for meaning to return to you. 

“Man of War” was written to resemble a James Bond movie soundtrack. Ultimately, however, the song was released on Radiohead’s album “OK Computer OKNOTOK 1997 2017” after being rejected from the production “Spectre” and later “The Avengers”(1998 version). Radiohead first performed the song live while on tour for their album “The Bends” in 1995. 

Radiohead is a rock band featuring Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood and Colin Greenwood, Ed O’Brien, and Philip Selway. The band formed in England in 1985, and they are most known for  experimental, edgy songs like “No Surprises,” “Creep,” and “Fake Plastic Trees.” The band will begin a European tour in November of 2025. 

“It’s very orchestral, and it’s very ballad-y,” Thornton said. “If you like songs like that, I recommend it.” 

You can listen to “Man of War” as well as Radiohead’s other songs on all streaming platforms.