Jonny Greenwood discusses upcoming album “Ranjha” and plans for another Radiohead tour
Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood recently released his album “Ranjha,” a project that took over a decade to complete. This album reunites Greenwood with Israeli musician Shye Ben Tzur and their ensemble The Rajasthan Express for a follow-up to their debut album, “Junun.” Greenwood was involved in various other musical ventures during the intervening years, including film scores, a collaboration with Israeli rock musician Dudu Tassa, and playing in The Smile with Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, but “Ranjha” remained a project close to his heart.
The recording process for “Junun” took place inside the 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur with Radiohead producer Nigel Godrich. In contrast, “Ranjha” was created at Greenwood’s studio in Oxfordshire. Greenwood wanted to provide the Indian musicians involved in the project with the opportunity to live and work in the UK for a few weeks to facilitate a collaborative exchange of experiences. He emphasized the importance of reciprocity and mutual learning in collaborative projects involving musicians from different backgrounds.
Greenwood attributed the extended timeline for the completion of “Ranjha” to various challenges, including the unfortunate death of one of the musicians involved, the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and logistical issues related to visas. Despite these obstacles, Greenwood remained dedicated to seeing the project through to its completion. The album was eventually released last month through World Circuit/BMG, marking a significant milestone in Greenwood’s musical journey.
Reflecting on the long-awaited completion of “Ranjha,” Greenwood expressed his hope for the future, including the possibility of another Radiohead tour. He described the creative process as a labor of love that required patience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to artistic expression. Greenwood’s passion for exploring new musical territories and collaborating with diverse artists shines through in “Ranjha,” showcasing his innovative approach to music-making.
Overall, “Ranjha” stands as a testament to Jonny Greenwood’s creative vision and unwavering dedication to his craft. The album represents a significant milestone in Greenwood’s musical career and highlights his ability to push boundaries, defy expectations, and create captivating music that resonates with audiences around the world. With its unique blend of musical influences and its collaborative spirit, “Ranjha” serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and the universal language it speaks.