Radiohead Release Unused ‘Spectre’ Theme Song

British rock group Radiohead have released their unused theme song for Spectre, the latest film in the James Bond franchise which was released on Nov. 6.

"Last year we were asked to write a theme tune for the Bond movie Spectre, " the band writes on their website. "Yes we were. It didn't work out, but became something of our own, which we love very much. As the year closes we thought you might like to hear it. Merry Christmas. May the force be with you."

At one point, Radiohead was one of many artists who were speculated to be providing the pivotal opening number for the movie. Other artists who were in the running include Ellie Goulding, Lana Del Rey, Rita Ora and Ed Sheeran. The honor ultimately went to Sam Smith, whose "Writing on the Wall" track made the final cut.

Providing the theme song for a Bond film is an honor only a handful of artists have been able to receive. In an interview with NME, Lana Del Rey admitted that she wish she was chosen to contribute a track. "I would’ve done it if I was asked, but I wasn’t asked. I love all of the Bond music that’s been put out over the years and I love soundtracks in general."