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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu occupied a ideal location in front of the the grand Movistar Arena. He was among the earliest devotees to gather at the venue, filled with hopes for the British band's first live show in an extended period, kicking off a multi-city European tour.

"I feel overwhelming joy. Like, I don't think it's real," stated the 27-year-old, who had travelled from his home country. "After such a lengthy hiatus, even should they perform one track 20 times in a row, I'll be thrilled."

Time flew by as concertgoers planned where to position themselves in front of the central stage, and celebrated the fact that they were among the privileged ones who had obtained tickets for a tour that had been fully booked in minutes.

Debate and Supporters' Views

The war in Gaza was another topic that had come up throughout the day, due to the fact that an advocacy organization had urged on people to boycott the performances, referencing guitarist a member's previous show in Israel.

This issue appears to be sensitive for the group; following earlier coverage about the protest appeal, media representatives were prevented from getting tickets to cover the performance. On Tuesday, the musicians did not reply to a question regarding the choice.

Across the nation, where many thousands have marched in support of Palestine, the artists' stance had caused some followers torn. "It would have been nice if they had made a statement about it sooner," said Lola, a young woman, who asked that her full identity not be revealed. "As a fan, I felt somewhat let down. But fortunately I think they realized their mistake."

She mentioned the situation last year in the Australian city, when the vocalist, the artist, briefly exited the performance during a solo gig after a protester shouter called out: "How many more young lives lost will it take for you to denounce the violence in the region?"

That wasn't the appropriate approach to answer, said Lola. "I disapproved of that reaction." In the end, however, the songs had swayed her. "I clearly have no power over what I feel when I hear the sound ... I truly desired to be present for the music and vocals that I've been enjoying since I was 12 years old."

Musician's Position

Afterward, issued a comment saying the event in the city left him "stunned that my apparent non-response was somehow being taken as involvement," calling the leader, the politician, and his government as "hardliners" who "need to be stopped."

Prior to the continental shows, the singer declared that he would "definitely not" play in the country. "I have no desire to be any distance anywhere near the Netanyahu regime," he continued.

Loyal Followers Share Their Thoughts

Several supported the band, citing their long history of activism. "They have consistently supported for harmony, they wouldn't shift now," said a dedicated fan. "I think the individuals acquainted with them, understand that they are on the correct side."

The opening show was to be the fiftieth occasion she had seen Radiohead take the stage, after falling in love when she first saw them live in the mid-nineties.

On this occasion she had admissions for multiple performances: the first event in the Spanish city and every single performance in her nation of the European country. "They constantly evolve from one record, they never do similar shows," she said as she showed off her two Radiohead-themed body art. "Essentially, I used to be a follower of different artists but they continued with the same things. And after a while you become tired."

Recent Followers Embraces the Fanbase

With several fans, the fact that the band had gone many seasons without playing live had introduced a sense of urgency into the latest concerts. "Perhaps there will be no another opportunity, Radiohead is pretty old at this point," said a young fan, a young man, causing amusement from those queuing up beside him. "Hence it was absolutely justified to be present and enjoy this event."

Behind him waited Sergio Zapater, who had arrived with his bags after catching a daybreak rail from his city.

The last time the middle-aged man had seen Radiohead was in a different era. For this event, he had come at the site over half a day before the concert was due to start, certain that he would be the initial attendee.

Contrarily he realized the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemed comfortable with early hours or lines – had become enamored with the group's "advanced, intricate, moving" songs. "I was surprised to find so many youth here," he said with a smile. "It's frustrating, I believed I would be the lead attendee because mature individuals don't do these events. But at present my position is later."

Following several performances in the Spanish capital, the group's series will proceed to the Italian city, the UK capital, the Danish city and the European nation, ending on the winter date.