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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, one eager fan claimed a prime spot in front of the the massive arena. He was among the first Radiohead fans to gather at the location, buzzing with expectations for the group's first live show in an extended period, kicking off a multi-city continental journey.

"I'm incredibly excited. I can scarcely accept this is happening," stated the fan, who had journeyed from Italy. "After such a lengthy hiatus, even should they play one track again and again, I'll be thrilled."

The hours passed quickly as fans discussed their ideal spots in front of the circular stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had scored tickets for a tour that had sold out in minutes.

Discussion and Supporters' Views

The conflict in Gaza was an issue that had arisen throughout the day, considering a pro-Palestinian campaign group had urged on people to boycott the tour, pointing to musician Jonny Greenwood's appearance in Israel.

The topic seemingly remains contentious for the artists; subsequent to news stories about the boycott call, media representatives were prevented from receiving tickets to cover the opening night. On Tuesday, the musicians did not answer to a inquiry regarding the decision.

In Spain, where hundreds of thousands have demonstrated in backing for Palestine, the band's actions had made some supporters torn. "I would have preferred if they had expressed their views about it much earlier," said one attendee, 22, who requested that her last name not be revealed. "As someone who admires them, It was disappointing. But fortunately I think they understood the situation."

She pointed to the event last year in the Australian city, when the lead singer, the musician, momentarily exited the performance during a personal show after a activist disrupter called out: "How many more dead children will it take for you to denounce the atrocities in Gaza?"

This wasn't the appropriate approach to respond, said the attendee. "I didn't like that reaction." Ultimately, however, the melodies had swayed her. "I clearly cannot manage my emotions when I listen to their songs ... I truly desired to come and listen the voices and sounds that I've been enjoying since I was a young teen."

Band's Response

Yorke later, released a statement saying the situation in Melbourne left him "in shock that my perceived quiet was somehow being seen as agreement," labeling the leader, the politician, and his government as "radicals" who "must be halted."

Before the European tour, the artist commented that he would "definitely not" appear in Israel. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere close to the Netanyahu regime," he continued.

Dedicated Fans Voice Their Opinions

Several stood by the group, citing their long history of advocacy. "They have consistently supported for non-violence, they wouldn't shift now," said Alessandra Fossati. "I believe the individuals acquainted with them, understand that they are on the just side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the half-century mark she had seen Radiohead perform, after developing a passion when she first saw them performing in decades ago.

On this occasion she had tickets for multiple performances: the first event in the Spanish city and every single performance in her nation of Italy. "They always change from album to album, they don't replicate identical performances," she said as she presented her pair of music-related ink. "I mean, I used to be a supporter of another band but they kept doing similar performances. And eventually you become tired."

Recent Followers Discovers the Community

For some, the fact that the band had remained an extended period without appearing as a group had injected a awareness of rarity into the latest concerts. "It's possible there won't be another opportunity, the group has aged at this point," said Luka Arreaza, in his twenties, eliciting chuckles from those standing nearby beside him. "So it was really worth it to attend and share this event."

In the vicinity waited Sergio Zapater, who had appeared with his bags after riding a morning train from the coastal town.

The previous occasion the fan had seen the band was over two decades past. On this day, he had reached at the site many hours before the show was set to open, sure that he would be the lead person.

Contrarily he found himself confronted by the fact that a younger crowd – one that appeared unfazed by dawn arrivals or lines – had developed a passion for the band's "evolved, elaborate, soul-touching" tunes. "I was surprised to find so many teenagers here," he said with a smile. "How annoying, I assumed I would be first in line because adults skip such activities. But currently my position is later."

Following several performances in Madrid, the band's journey will travel to the Italian city, the UK capital, Copenhagen and Germany, ending on the winter date.