Burn the Witch

About this song

The song has a long history with Radiohead, with related phrases first appearing in the cover art to 2003's Hail to the Thief. Its lyrics were reportedly finished in 2005, and it was teased for years in unfinished tracklists and in piano chords played at concerts. Its official video, released on May 3 after a cryptic social media campaign, was directed by Chris Hopewell and resembles the 1960s UK children's series Trumpton, with references to the horror film The Wicker Man.

What it's about

Animator Virpi Kettu suggested the song may address the refugee crisis in Europe and the blaming of groups such as Muslims that could lead to lines like "burn the witch". She linked this to the mysterious postcards some fans received that read "we know where you live", which she saw as a sign of insecurity and blame fostered by anti-immigration politicians.

Fun facts

• Covered once, including “Burn The Witch by Stavesacre”.
• Written by Philip Selway, Ed O’Brien, Jonny Greenwood, Thom Yorke and Colin Greenwood.
• Produced by Radiohead and Nigel Godrich.