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As the sun prepared to rise over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu claimed a prime location in front of the city's grand Movistar Arena. He stood with the initial Radiohead fans to arrive at the venue, buzzing with anticipation for the act's comeback performance in almost a decade, launching a multi-city tour across Europe.

"My excitement is through the roof. I can scarcely accept this moment has arrived," shared the 27-year-old, who had come from his home country. "Given the extended wait, even should they sing one track again and again, I'll be content."

The wait seemed short as fans planned where to position themselves in front of the circular stage, and reveled in the fact that they were among the lucky ones who had obtained tickets for a event that had sold out in a very short time.

Discussion and Fan Reactions

The war in Gaza was an issue that had arisen throughout the day, given that the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel had urged on people to boycott the tour, referencing musician Jonny Greenwood's previous show in Israel.

This issue appears to be contentious for the group; after reports emerged about the demonstration request, journalists were blocked from obtaining tickets to report on the Madrid concert. On the day of the show, the musicians did not respond to a request for comment regarding the choice.

In Spain, where a large number have demonstrated in solidarity with Palestine, the band's actions had made some supporters torn. "It might have been better if they had expressed their views about it sooner," said Lola, in her twenties, who preferred that her full identity not be shared. "Being a supporter, I felt somewhat let down. But at least I think they realized their mistake."

She referenced the situation last year in the Australian city, when the band's frontman, the artist, briefly exited the performance during a solo gig after a activist heckler called out: "How many children killed will it take for you to condemn the violence in Gaza?"

This wasn't the right way to react, said the attendee. "I didn't like that reaction." Ultimately, however, the music had swayed her. "I obviously have no power over my reactions when I experience their songs ... I was determined to attend and hear the voices and sounds that I've been following since I was 12 years old."

Band's Response

Yorke later, released a statement saying the incident in the city left him "surprised that my supposed silence was somehow being taken as involvement," labeling the official, the politician, and his administration as "hardliners" who "should be opposed."

Before the European tour, the singer stated that he would "definitely not" appear in the country. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere anywhere near the leadership," he added.

Loyal Followers Voice Their Views

Some stood by the group, pointing to their established record of social engagement. "They have consistently supported for harmony, they can't have changed now," said one supporter. "I believe the those familiar with them, know that they are on the correct side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the fiftieth occasion she had seen the group play, after developing a passion when she initially witnessed them performing in the mid-nineties.

For these events she had passes for multiple performances: opening night in Madrid and each show in her native land of the European country. "They continually transform from one record, they never do the same thing," she said as she presented her pair of Radiohead-themed ink. "I mean, I was once a follower of different artists but they continued with identical actions. And after a while you lose interest."

Recent Followers Discovers the Community

Among certain attendees, the fact that the band had been many seasons without performing together had introduced a feeling of importance into the new tour. "There might not be another opportunity, Radiohead is pretty old at this point," said an attendee, in his twenties, causing laughter from those waiting in line with him. "So it was really worth it to be present and enjoy this time."

Nearby sat another fan, who had come luggage in hand after catching a morning train from his city.

The previous occasion the fan had seen the group was over two decades past. This time, he had reached at the location more than nine hours before the performance was due to start, convinced that he would be the initial attendee.

However he realized the fact that a new generation – one that appeared unfazed by dawn arrivals or waiting – had become enamored with the band's "evolved, elaborate, soul-touching" music. "I was taken aback to find all these teenagers here," he said with a laugh. "What a nuisance, I believed I would be the lead attendee because adults don't do these events. But currently I'm further back."

After four nights in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will proceed to Bologna, the UK capital, Copenhagen and the European nation, finishing on the winter date.