TL;DR
Ed O’Brien has released his second solo album ‘Blue Morpho,’ influenced by his personal healing journey through nature and alternative therapies. The album and a short film reflect his experiences during a dark period and his connection to wilderness.
Ed O’Brien, guitarist of Radiohead, has released his second solo album, ‘Blue Morpho,’ on May 22, inspired by his personal journey of healing through nature, mysticism, and alternative therapies. The album, developed over four years, marks a creative reinvention born from a period of deep personal darkness, and is accompanied by a short film set to its soundtrack.
The album ‘Blue Morpho’ was recorded between London and the Welsh countryside with producer Paul Epworth, featuring collaborations with artists including Shabaka Hutchings, Dave Okumu, Philip Selway, and Tõnu Kõrvits. It was recorded at 432 Hz, a frequency believed to promote calmness and wholeness, which O’Brien emphasizes as part of its healing intent.
O’Brien describes the album as a reflection of his transformation during a period of depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moving from London to Wales, he immersed himself in the Celtic landscape, which he credits with sparking a spiritual awakening. The related short film, shot mostly on his property, captures his walks through nature and his connection to the land, narrated by O’Brien himself.
Why It Matters
This release highlights how personal healing and spirituality influence contemporary musicians, especially those from prominent bands like Radiohead. It also underscores a broader cultural interest in alternative therapies, nature-based spirituality, and mental health awareness, resonating with listeners seeking meaningful artistic expression rooted in authenticity.
432 Hz tuning music album
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Background
O’Brien’s journey into healing practices began long before this album, influenced by his family background and personal exploration of Tibetan medicine, acupuncture, and psychedelics. His depression during the pandemic led him to seek solace in nature and alternative therapies, which have profoundly shaped his recent work. ‘Blue Morpho’ and its accompanying film continue this narrative of transformation and spiritual renewal.
“I believe in magic. It’s inherent to music-making. Music doesn’t come from studied, accumulated knowledge. It comes through you.”
— Ed O’Brien
“When you make something deeply emotional or multi-layered, it’s often hard to explain it only in words. Images and references say one thousand things.”
— Ed O’Brien
“I wouldn’t have moved forward without my dark time. Only when we suffer and face challenges do we evolve.”
— Ed O’Brien
nature-inspired meditation music CD
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear how the broader audience will receive the album and film, or how much O’Brien will incorporate these themes into future Radiohead projects. Details about upcoming live performances or further artistic collaborations are not yet confirmed.
healing sound therapy recordings
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
What’s Next
The short film ‘The Blue Morpho,’ narrated by O’Brien, will premiere on YouTube on June 3, 2026. O’Brien is also scheduled to appear at Outside Inc.’s Outside Days festival on May 31, where he will screen the film and participate in a live discussion. Further promotional activities and possible musical performances are expected in the coming months.
spiritual journey music vinyl
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Key Questions
What inspired Ed O’Brien’s new album ‘Blue Morpho’?
He was inspired by his personal healing journey during a period of depression, his connection with nature in Wales, and his interest in mysticism and alternative therapies.
Who collaborated with O’Brien on the album?
He worked with producer Paul Epworth and artists including Shabaka Hutchings, Dave Okumu, Philip Selway, and Tõnu Kõrvits.
What is the significance of the album’s title?
‘Blue Morpho’ refers to the iridescent butterfly O’Brien encountered in Brazil, symbolizing transformation and metamorphosis, paralleling his personal growth.
When and where can I see the related short film?
The film will premiere on YouTube on June 3, 2026, and will be screened at Outside Days festival on May 31, 2026.
There are no confirmed live performances yet, but O’Brien will participate in a fireside chat at the festival and may share more in upcoming appearances.
Source: Yoga Journal
