Radiohead appeared on an hour-long special edition of Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report last night and it did not disappoint. The majority of the show was dedicated to the band. Radiohead played four songs: “The Daily Mail,” “Bloom,” “Little by Little,” and “The National Anthem.” In addition, there were two interview segments; the first was with the full band and the second was just Thom and Ed.
The band also taped two additional songs (“Morning Mr. Magpie” and “Codex”) which did not air but are available online.
Colbert was his normal over-the-top self which is always funny but we’ll admit, there were some cringe-worthy moments when he interacted with the band. All in all, it was an awesome night. Colbert “grills” the band on various topics such as why they are British, Dr. Pepper, global warming, corporations, and their Christmas album.
The Guardian has a recap of the show which you should read:
But despite the jokes, Colbert was sweetly visibly thrilled to have the generally interview-averse band on his show. But the band-members themselves looked even more thrilled to be there.
Thom Yorke in particular – not a man famed for his sense of humour – was clearly having the time of his life, being ribbed by the comedian and even making some jokes back.
“Why do Americans like you?” demanded Colbert.
“We don’t know. Not a clue,” replied Yorke, looking slyly out towards the audience.
When Colbert suggested it was just a hangover from Beatlemania, Yorke countered that they were “still waiting for the greeting off the plane with all the crowds and shit”.
“Well, maybe if you were lovable moptops … but you guys have this totally indie ragged kind of quality.”
Yorke burst into laughter while Jonny Greenwood behind him could barely sit up for giggling.
“How old are you?” continued Colbert. After some umming, Yorke, sporting a grizzled beard, replied that he is 42.
“Grow up, man,” Colbert spat out. The band laughed delightedly.
What did you think of the show?
The full episode is online for you to view. All the individual performances are viewable after the jump.