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Just before dawn broke over Madrid, Francesco Puddu secured a ideal position in front of the the massive concert venue. He stood with the earliest Radiohead fans to arrive at the venue, overflowing with expectations for the British band's return to the stage in seven years, launching a 20-date continental journey.

"I feel overwhelming joy. I can scarcely accept this moment has arrived," shared the fan, who had come from his home country. "After such a lengthy hiatus, even if they play the same song 20 times in a row, I'll be thrilled."

Time flew by as fans discussed where to position themselves in front of the circular stage, and celebrated the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had secured tickets for a tour that had sold out in minutes.

Controversy and Supporters' Views

The war in Gaza was another topic that had been discussed throughout the day, given that a pro-Palestinian campaign group had appealed on people to avoid the tour, referencing guitarist Jonny Greenwood's 2024 performance in Tel Aviv.

This issue appears to be delicate for the artists; after reports emerged about the boycott call, reporters were blocked from receiving tickets to review the performance. On Tuesday, the musicians did not answer to a question regarding the decision.

In Spain, where many thousands have marched in support of Palestine, the artists' stance had made some supporters divided. "It might have been better if they had made a statement about it much earlier," said a fan, a young woman, who preferred that her full identity not be published. "As someone who admires them, I was a little bit disappointed. But at least I think they learned their lesson."

She pointed to the event earlier in the Australian city, when the lead singer, Thom Yorke, briefly exited the performance during a individual concert after a protester shouter called out: "What number of young lives lost will it take for you to denounce the violence in the region?"

This wasn't the appropriate approach to respond, said the fan. "I was unhappy with that reaction." Finally, however, the melodies had won her over. "I clearly have no power over what I feel when I hear their songs ... I was determined to be present for the music and vocals that I've been following since I was a young teen."

Artist's Statement

Afterward, made a declaration saying the event in the city left him "stunned that my supposed silence was somehow being seen as involvement," describing the official, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his administration as "extremists" who "need to be stopped."

Ahead of the performances, the singer stated that he would "absolutely not" appear in Israel. "I wouldn't want to be any distance close to the Netanyahu regime," he added.

Longtime Supporters Express Their Thoughts

A number of supported the artists, referencing their extensive background of advocacy. "They have consistently supported for harmony, they wouldn't shift now," said one supporter. "I believe the individuals acquainted with them, know that they are on the correct side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the half-century mark she had seen Radiohead take the stage, after becoming hooked when she initially witnessed them performing in the mid-nineties.

For these events she had passes for multiple performances: the first event in Madrid and each show in her nation of Italy. "They always change from album to album, they never do the same thing," she said as she displayed her couple of music-related ink. "I mean, I formerly was a follower of different artists but they kept doing identical actions. And over time you become tired."

Younger Fans Discovers the Community

For some, the fact that the band had gone seven years without playing live had injected a feeling of importance into the latest concerts. "Perhaps there will be no future chance, the group has aged at this point," said Luka Arreaza, a young man, causing chuckles from those waiting in line beside him. "So it was really worth it to attend and enjoy this event."

Nearby waited another fan, who had come with his bags after riding a early transport from the coastal town.

The most recent instance the 53-year-old had seen the group was in a different era. On this day, he had arrived at the venue over half a day before the concert was set to open, sure that he would be the initial attendee.

However he found himself confronted by the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemingly did not mind morning queues or queues – had become enamored with Radiohead's "advanced, intricate, moving" songs. "I was taken aback to encounter numerous young people here," he said with a smile. "It's frustrating, I thought I would be the lead attendee because adults avoid these events. But currently my position is later."

Following several performances in the Spanish capital, the group's series will move to Bologna, the UK capital, the Danish city and the European nation, concluding on 12 December.