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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu occupied a prime location in front of the city's massive arena. He stood with the first devotees to appear at the location, buzzing with expectations for the act's first live show in an extended period, launching a 20-date continental journey.

"I'm incredibly excited. It's hard to believe this moment has arrived," remarked the young man, who had travelled from his home country. "It's been so long, even if they sing one track 20 times in a row, I'll be content."

The hours passed quickly as concertgoers discussed their ideal spots in front of the circular stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the privileged ones who had scored tickets for a event that had been fully booked in a very short time.

Controversy and Supporters' Views

The war in Gaza was another topic that had been discussed throughout the day, due to the fact that an advocacy organization had urged on people to skip the concerts, citing guitarist Jonny Greenwood's previous show in Israel.

The matter continues as contentious for the artists; subsequent to news stories about the protest appeal, reporters were blocked from getting tickets to report on the opening night. On the day of the show, the group did not respond to a inquiry regarding the choice.

Throughout the country, where hundreds of thousands have marched in backing for Palestine, the group's decisions had made some supporters torn. "I would have preferred if they had made a statement about it sooner," said one attendee, 22, who preferred that her last name not be revealed. "As a fan, I felt somewhat let down. But fortunately I think they realized their mistake."

She referenced the incident previously in Melbourne, when the lead singer, the musician, temporarily left the platform during a personal show after a protester shouter yelled: "How many children killed will it take for you to denounce the atrocities in Gaza?"

That wasn't the right way to respond, said the fan. "I disapproved of the action." Ultimately, however, the songs had swayed her. "Naturally cannot manage my emotions when I experience their songs ... I truly desired to be present for the tunes and lyrics that I've been listening to since I was 12 years old."

Artist's Statement

Yorke later, released a statement saying the event in the city left him "in shock that my supposed silence was somehow being interpreted as agreement," describing the prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his administration as "hardliners" who "must be halted."

Ahead of the performances, the singer stated that he would "certainly not" appear in Israel. "I have no desire to be anywhere anywhere near the current government," he added.

Longtime Supporters Share Their Thoughts

Some supported the group, pointing to their long history of social engagement. "They have consistently supported for harmony, they wouldn't shift now," said a dedicated fan. "In my view the individuals acquainted with them, recognize that they are on the right side."

The opening show was to be the half-century mark she had seen the group take the stage, after falling in love when she initially witnessed them performing in decades ago.

This time she had tickets for five of the shows: the premiere in Madrid and each show in her native land of the European country. "They always change from one record, they never do the same thing," she said as she showed off her two Radiohead-themed tattoos. "Essentially, I was once a follower of different artists but they continued with the same things. And after a while you get bored."

Younger Fans Embraces the Community

Among certain attendees, the fact that the group had gone an extended period without performing together had brought a sense of urgency into the new tour. "There might not be another opportunity, the group has aged at this point," said a young fan, 20, causing amusement from those waiting in line around him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to attend and enjoy this event."

Behind him waited an attendee, who had arrived luggage in hand after catching a early transport from the coastal town.

The most recent instance the middle-aged man had seen the group was in a different era. This time, he had come at the site more than nine hours before the performance was set to open, sure that he would be the initial attendee.

Contrarily he found himself confronted by the fact that a younger crowd – one that appeared unfazed by morning queues or queues – had fallen for Radiohead's "advanced, intricate, moving" music. "I was surprised to see numerous teenagers here," he said with a chuckle. "What a nuisance, I assumed I would be the lead attendee because mature individuals don't do these events. But currently my position is later."

After four nights in the Spanish capital, the band's journey will proceed to Bologna, the UK capital, the Danish city and the European nation, concluding on 12 December.