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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu claimed a prime spot in front of the city's imposing arena. He was among the earliest Radiohead fans to appear at the site, filled with anticipation for the British band's comeback performance in seven years, launching a extensive continental journey.

"I feel overwhelming joy. Like, I don't think this is happening," stated the young man, who had come from Italy. "Given the extended wait, even if they perform a single tune repeatedly, I'll be happy."

The wait seemed short as fans plotted where to stand in front of the central stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had secured tickets for a tour that had been fully booked in a very short time.

Debate and Audience Responses

The war in Gaza was a subject that had arisen throughout the day, given that a pro-Palestinian campaign group had urged on people to avoid the tour, pointing to band member a member's 2024 performance in Israel.

The topic seemingly remains sensitive for the artists; subsequent to news stories about the boycott call, media representatives were denied from obtaining tickets to report on the Madrid concert. On Tuesday, the musicians did not reply to a question regarding the action.

In Spain, where a large number have marched in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, the group's decisions had caused some followers divided. "It might have been better if they had spoken out about it much earlier," said a fan, 22, who asked that her full identity not be shared. "Being a supporter, I was a little bit disappointed. But at the very least I think they understood the situation."

She referenced the event previously in Melbourne, when the vocalist, the musician, temporarily left the platform during a individual concert after a protester heckler shouted: "What number of dead children will it take for you to condemn the violence in the region?"

This wasn't the right way to react, said the fan. "I disapproved of his response." In the end, however, the melodies had swayed her. "I obviously cannot manage my emotions when I hear music ... I really wanted to attend and hear the music and vocals that I've been listening to since I was a child."

Band's Response

Subsequently, made a declaration saying the event in Melbourne left him "in shock that my supposed silence was somehow being interpreted as complicity," labeling the prime minister, the politician, and his regime as "radicals" who "should be opposed."

Ahead of the performances, the singer stated that he would "certainly not" perform in Israel. "I wouldn't want to be any distance close to the leadership," he remarked.

Longtime Supporters Voice Their Views

Some stood by the artists, citing their established record of advocacy. "They've always stood for harmony, it's unlikely they've altered now," said one supporter. "I think the those familiar with them, recognize that they are on the correct side."

The evening's performance was to be the 50th time she had seen Radiohead perform, after becoming hooked when she initially witnessed them in concert in 1995.

This time she had passes for multiple performances: the premiere in Madrid and all the appearances in her home country of the European country. "They continually transform from one record, they never do similar shows," she said as she showed off her two music-related ink. "Essentially, I formerly was a follower of different artists but they continued with similar performances. And after a while you get bored."

Younger Fans Embraces the Fanbase

With several fans, the fact that the artists had gone an extended period without appearing as a group had injected a awareness of rarity into the latest concerts. "Perhaps there will be no future chance, Radiohead is pretty old at this point," said an attendee, in his twenties, prompting chuckles from those standing nearby with him. "Hence it was absolutely justified to be present and enjoy this time."

Nearby stood an attendee, who had appeared carrying his things after riding a morning train from Valencia.

The last time the 53-year-old had seen Radiohead was 22 years ago. On this day, he had come at the venue more than nine hours before the performance was due to start, convinced that he would be the lead person.

Instead he found himself confronted by the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemingly did not mind morning queues or queues – had fallen for the band's "evolved, elaborate, soul-touching" songs. "I was taken aback to encounter so many young people here," he said with a chuckle. "How annoying, I thought I would be the lead attendee because adults don't do these things. But at present my position is later."

Following several performances in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will travel to the Italian city, the UK capital, the Danish city and the European nation, ending on mid-December.