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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu claimed a perfect position in front of the city's massive concert venue. He was among the initial Radiohead fans to arrive at the location, buzzing with anticipation for the British band's return to the stage in seven years, starting a multi-city tour across Europe.

"I'm incredibly excited. Like, I don't think this is happening," remarked the 27-year-old, who had come from his home country. "It's been so long, even were they play a single tune 20 times in a row, I'll be content."

Time flew by as fans discussed their ideal spots in front of the central stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the lucky ones who had scored tickets for a event that had sold out in record time.

Debate and Supporters' Views

The situation in Gaza was an issue that had arisen throughout the day, considering a pro-Palestinian campaign group had urged on people to boycott the concerts, pointing to musician Jonny Greenwood's 2024 performance in Israel.

The topic seemingly remains sensitive for the artists; following earlier coverage about the protest appeal, journalists were blocked from receiving tickets to report on the Madrid concert. On that evening, the musicians did not answer to a request for comment regarding the action.

In Spain, where hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets in backing for Palestine, the group's decisions had caused some followers torn. "I would have preferred if they had spoken out about it sooner," said Lola, in her twenties, who requested that her surname not be shared. "As a fan, I felt somewhat let down. But fortunately I think they understood the situation."

She mentioned the event last year in the Australian city, when the band's frontman, Thom Yorke, momentarily exited the performance during a personal show after a protester disrupter shouted: "What number of dead children will it take for you to denounce the atrocities in Gaza?"

That wasn't the appropriate approach to respond, said the fan. "I didn't like that reaction." In the end, however, the melodies had won her over. "I obviously can't control my reactions when I listen to their songs ... I truly desired to come and listen the voices and sounds that I've been listening to since I was a child."

Musician's Position

Subsequently, issued a comment saying the situation in the city left him "in shock that my supposed silence was somehow being seen as agreement," describing the leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his government as "radicals" who "should be opposed."

Ahead of the performances, Yorke commented that he would "absolutely not" play in Israel. "I prefer not to be anywhere in proximity to the leadership," he remarked.

Longtime Supporters Share Their Thoughts

A number of defended the artists, citing their extensive background of advocacy. "They've always stood for harmony, they wouldn't shift now," said a dedicated fan. "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 the band perform, after becoming hooked when she initially witnessed them in concert in the mid-nineties.

On this occasion she had tickets for multiple performances: the premiere in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her home country of the European country. "They always change from one record, they never do identical performances," she said as she showed off her couple of band-inspired tattoos. "Basically, I formerly was a supporter of another band but they continued with identical actions. And over time you lose interest."

New Generation Discovers the Community

Among certain attendees, the fact that the artists had remained an extended period without appearing as a group had introduced a feeling of importance into the latest concerts. "There might not be future chance, the group has aged at this point," said Luka Arreaza, in his twenties, causing chuckles from those queuing up around him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to come here and share this moment."

Behind him sat Sergio Zapater, who had arrived carrying his things after riding a early transport from his city.

The most recent instance the middle-aged man had seen Radiohead was 22 years ago. This time, he had reached at the site many hours before the concert was set to open, convinced that he would be the initial attendee.

Contrarily he discovered the fact that a new generation – one that seemingly did not mind early hours or waiting – had become enamored with the band's "sophisticated, complex, emotional" tunes. "I was taken aback to find so many youth here," he said with a smile. "What a nuisance, I thought I would be the lead attendee because older people avoid these things. But at present my position is later."

After four nights in the Spanish capital, Radiohead's tour will travel to Bologna, London, Copenhagen and Germany, finishing on the winter date.