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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, one eager fan secured a prime position in front of the city's grand Movistar Arena. He was among the initial Radiohead fans to appear at the site, overflowing with anticipation for the act's return to the stage in seven years, launching a extensive European tour.

"I'm incredibly excited. Like, I don't think it's real," shared the fan, who had travelled from his home country. "It's been so long, even if they play one track again and again, I'll be thrilled."

The hours passed quickly as attendees plotted their ideal spots in front of the central stage, and celebrated the fact that they were among the lucky ones who had secured tickets for a event that had sold out in minutes.

Controversy and Fan Reactions

The conflict in Gaza was another topic that had come up throughout the day, considering the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel had called on people to avoid the performances, citing musician Jonny Greenwood's appearance in Tel Aviv.

The matter continues as sensitive for the group; following earlier coverage about the protest appeal, media representatives were blocked from getting tickets to report on the opening night. On Tuesday, the musicians did not answer to a question regarding the choice.

In Spain, where a large number have demonstrated in support of the Palestinian cause, the group's decisions had made some supporters torn. "It might have been better if they had made a statement about it sooner," said one attendee, a young woman, who requested that her full identity not be revealed. "As a fan, It was disappointing. But fortunately I think they learned their lesson."

She pointed to the incident previously in Melbourne, when the vocalist, the artist, temporarily exited the performance during a personal show after a pro-Palestinian shouter called out: "How many children killed will it take for you to condemn the violence in the region?"

That wasn't the appropriate approach to answer, said the fan. "I disapproved of that reaction." In the end, however, the music had won her over. "Naturally have no power over what I feel when I experience their songs ... I really wanted to attend and hear the voices and sounds that I've been following since I was 12 years old."

Artist's Statement

Yorke later, released a statement saying the incident in Melbourne left him "in shock that my supposed silence was somehow being seen as involvement," describing the official, the politician, and his government as "hardliners" who "must be halted."

Ahead of the performances, Yorke commented that he would "definitely not" perform in Israel. "I prefer not to be anywhere anywhere near the current government," he continued.

Longtime Supporters Voice Their Views

Several supported the group, citing their established record of advocacy. "They have long advocated for harmony, they wouldn't shift now," said a dedicated fan. "I believe the those familiar with them, know that they are on the just side."

The evening's performance was to be the half-century mark she had seen Radiohead perform, after becoming hooked when she first saw them live in decades ago.

This time she had admissions for multiple performances: the first event in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her nation of the European country. "They constantly evolve from release to release, they don't replicate the same thing," she said as she presented her couple of band-inspired body art. "Basically, I was once a follower of different artists but they continued with the same things. And eventually you become tired."

Younger Fans Embraces the Community

For some, the fact that the group had gone seven years without performing together had introduced a sense of urgency into the latest concerts. "Perhaps there will be no future chance, the band has been around at this point," said an attendee, 20, eliciting chuckles from those waiting in line beside him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to be present and enjoy this event."

Nearby waited another fan, who had appeared carrying his things after taking a daybreak rail from Valencia.

The most recent instance the 53-year-old had seen the band was over two decades past. On this day, he had reached at the location over half a day before the concert was due to start, convinced that he would be the first in line.

However he discovered the fact that a recent fanbase – one that appeared unfazed by dawn arrivals or lines – had developed a passion for Radiohead's "sophisticated, complex, emotional" songs. "It amazed me to find numerous young people here," he said with a laugh. "It's frustrating, I thought I would be the initial person because mature individuals avoid these things. But at present I'm 25th."

Subsequent to multiple shows in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will travel to Bologna, the UK capital, the Danish city and Germany, concluding on mid-December.