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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 imposing concert venue. He was among the earliest Radiohead fans to gather at the site, overflowing with hopes for the group's return to the stage in seven years, launching a extensive continental journey.

"I'm incredibly excited. Like, I don't think this is happening," remarked the fan, who had journeyed from his home country. "Given the extended wait, even if they perform one track again and again, I'll be content."

Time flew by as attendees planned where to stand 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 minutes.

Controversy and Audience Responses

The war in Gaza was another topic that had arisen throughout the day, given that a pro-Palestinian campaign group had appealed on people to avoid the performances, citing band member a member's previous show in Tel Aviv.

The matter continues as delicate for the group; following earlier coverage about the demonstration request, media representatives were prevented from getting tickets to cover the Madrid concert. On Tuesday, the band did not respond to a inquiry regarding the decision.

Throughout the country, where hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets in support of the Palestinian cause, the band's actions had left some fans conflicted. "It would have been nice if they had spoken out about it much earlier," said Lola, 22, who preferred that her last name not be revealed. "As someone who admires them, It was disappointing. But fortunately I think they learned their lesson."

She referenced the situation last year in Melbourne, when the vocalist, Thom Yorke, temporarily exited the performance during a solo gig after a activist shouter yelled: "What number of dead children will it take for you to condemn the atrocities in Gaza?"

It was not the right way to react, said the attendee. "I was unhappy with that reaction." Ultimately, however, the melodies had won her over. "I clearly cannot manage what I feel when I experience music ... I was determined to be present for the music and vocals that I've been listening to since I was a young teen."

Band's Response

Yorke later, issued a comment saying the event in the city left him "in shock that my apparent non-response was somehow being seen as involvement," labeling the leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his administration as "radicals" who "need to be stopped."

Before the European tour, Yorke commented that he would "definitely not" appear in the country. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere anywhere near the current government," he remarked.

Loyal Followers Voice Their Thoughts

A number of stood by the artists, referencing their extensive background of social engagement. "They have consistently supported for peace, they can't have changed now," said a dedicated fan. "I believe the individuals acquainted with them, recognize that they are on the just side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the 50th time she had seen the band play, after falling in love when she first saw them performing in decades ago.

On this occasion she had admissions for several concerts: the first event in Madrid and every single performance in her nation of the European country. "They constantly evolve from release to release, they don't replicate similar shows," she said as she displayed her two Radiohead-themed body art. "Basically, I formerly was a supporter of another band but they continued with identical actions. And eventually you become tired."

Younger Fans Joins the Community

For some, the fact that the band had been seven years without performing together had introduced a feeling of importance into the new tour. "There might not be another opportunity, the group has aged at this point," said a young fan, 20, causing laughter from those standing nearby beside him. "Hence it was absolutely justified to attend and experience this time."

Behind him sat Sergio Zapater, who had come carrying his things after catching a morning train from the coastal town.

The last time the middle-aged man had seen Radiohead was over two decades past. For this event, he had arrived at the venue many hours before the concert was set to open, certain that he would be the initial attendee.

Instead he discovered the fact that a recent fanbase – one that appeared unfazed by morning queues or queues – had become enamored with Radiohead's "sophisticated, complex, emotional" tunes. "I was surprised to find so many young people here," he said with a chuckle. "What a nuisance, I believed I would be the lead attendee because older people don't do these things. But currently I'm 25th."

After four nights in Madrid, the group's series will proceed to Bologna, London, the Danish city and the European nation, ending on the winter date.