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In the early morning hours over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu occupied a prime spot in front of the the imposing concert venue. He was among the initial devotees to gather at the location, filled with expectations for the group's first live show in almost a decade, starting a multi-city tour across Europe.

"My excitement is through the roof. I can scarcely accept this moment has arrived," shared the fan, who had journeyed from Italy. "It's been so long, even should they perform the same song again and again, I'll be content."

The hours passed quickly as fans plotted where to position themselves in front of the round platform, and reveled in the fact that they were among the privileged ones who had obtained tickets for a event that had sold quickly in a very short time.

Debate and Supporters' Views

The war in Gaza was an issue that had come up throughout the day, considering the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel had urged on people to avoid the performances, pointing to guitarist Jonny Greenwood's previous show in Israel.

The topic seemingly remains sensitive for the group; subsequent to news stories about the protest appeal, media representatives were blocked from obtaining tickets to report on the opening night. On that evening, the group did not answer to a question regarding the decision.

Throughout the country, where a large number have marched in support of Palestine, the artists' stance had made some supporters conflicted. "I would have preferred if they had spoken out about it much earlier," said a fan, a young woman, who requested that her surname not be shared. "As a fan, It was disappointing. But at the very least I think they understood the situation."

She pointed to the incident previously in Melbourne, when the band's frontman, Thom Yorke, briefly left the platform during a solo gig after a pro-Palestinian shouter shouted: "How many more young lives lost will it take for you to condemn the violence in the region?"

This wasn't the proper manner to respond, said Lola. "I was unhappy with the action." In the end, however, the music had swayed her. "Naturally can't control my reactions when I hear music ... I was determined to attend and hear the tunes and lyrics that I've been listening to since I was a young teen."

Band's Response

Yorke later, released a statement saying the situation in the city left him "in shock that my apparent non-response was somehow being taken as complicity," labeling the prime minister, the Israeli leader, and his administration as "radicals" who "must be halted."

Ahead of the performances, Yorke stated that he would "certainly not" perform in the country. "I prefer not to be anywhere in proximity to the Netanyahu regime," he remarked.

Loyal Followers Voice Their Opinions

Several supported the group, referencing their extensive background of social engagement. "They have long advocated for peace, they wouldn't shift now," said Alessandra Fossati. "I think the individuals acquainted with them, recognize that they are on the correct side."

The evening's performance was to be the half-century mark she had seen Radiohead perform, after developing a passion when she first saw them in concert in the mid-nineties.

For these events she had admissions for multiple performances: the first event in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her native land of Italy. "They continually transform from one record, they don't replicate the same thing," she said as she showed off her couple of band-inspired body art. "Essentially, I used to be a U2 fan but they repeated identical actions. And eventually you become tired."

Younger Fans Embraces the Fanbase

With several fans, the fact that the group had remained seven years without appearing as a group had brought a feeling of importance into the latest concerts. "There might not be subsequent occasion, the group has aged at this point," said a young fan, in his twenties, eliciting laughter from those waiting in line around him. "So it was really worth it to be present and experience this time."

Nearby waited Sergio Zapater, who had arrived with his bags after taking a morning train from Valencia.

The last time the 53-year-old had seen the group was 22 years ago. This time, he had arrived at the location over half a day before the show was due to start, certain that he would be the lead person.

Instead he realized the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemed comfortable with morning queues or lines – had become enamored with the band's "advanced, intricate, moving" music. "I was taken aback to encounter numerous young people here," he said with a smile. "It's frustrating, I thought I would be the lead attendee because mature individuals avoid such activities. But now I'm further back."

Subsequent to multiple shows in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will proceed to the Italian city, London, the Danish city and the European nation, concluding on the winter date.