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Just before dawn broke over Madrid, Francesco Puddu occupied a perfect position in front of the city's grand arena. He joined the earliest supporters to appear at the venue, filled with expectations for the act's comeback performance in an extended period, kicking off a 20-date tour across Europe.

"My excitement is through the roof. It's hard to believe this moment has arrived," stated the young man, who had travelled from his home country. "It's been so long, even were they play the same song repeatedly, I'll be thrilled."

The hours passed quickly as fans discussed their ideal spots in front of the round platform, and celebrated the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had obtained tickets for a tour that had been fully booked in record time.

Discussion and Audience Responses

The situation in Gaza was an issue that had come up throughout the day, due to the fact that an advocacy organization had called on people to avoid the performances, citing band member Jonny Greenwood's appearance in Israel.

This issue appears to be delicate for the group; subsequent to news stories about the protest appeal, journalists were prevented from getting tickets to review the opening night. On the day of the show, the musicians did not answer to a question regarding the decision.

Across the nation, where hundreds of thousands have marched in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, the artists' stance had left some fans torn. "It might have been better if they had made a statement about it before," said a fan, 22, who asked that her last name not be revealed. "Being a supporter, It was disappointing. But at least I think they understood the situation."

She referenced the incident last year in the Australian city, when the lead singer, Thom Yorke, briefly walked off stage during a personal show after a pro-Palestinian disrupter shouted: "How many more children killed will it take for you to condemn the genocide in Gaza?"

That wasn't the proper manner to respond, said the fan. "I disapproved of the action." In the end, however, the melodies had swayed her. "I obviously have no power over my reactions when I listen to music ... I truly desired to be present for the voices and sounds that I've been enjoying since I was a young teen."

Musician's Position

Afterward, issued a comment saying the incident in Melbourne left him "stunned that my perceived quiet was somehow being interpreted as complicity," labeling the leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his regime as "extremists" who "should be opposed."

Prior to the continental shows, the singer commented that he would "certainly not" play in Israel. "I have no desire to be 5,000 miles close to the Netanyahu regime," he continued.

Longtime Supporters Voice Their Thoughts

Some stood by the group, referencing their extensive background of advocacy. "They have long advocated for peace, it's unlikely they've altered now," said one supporter. "I believe the those familiar with them, understand that they are on the just side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the half-century mark she had seen the group play, after falling in love when she first saw them performing in decades ago.

This time she had passes for several concerts: the premiere in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her home country of the European country. "They continually transform from one record, they avoid repeating identical performances," she said as she presented her couple of band-inspired body art. "Basically, I formerly was a follower of different artists but they continued with the same things. And after a while you become tired."

Recent Followers Discovers the Fandom

With several fans, the fact that the band had gone many seasons without playing live had introduced a sense of urgency into the latest concerts. "It's possible there won't be another opportunity, Radiohead is pretty old at this point," said Luka Arreaza, 20, causing chuckles from those queuing up beside him. "So it was really worth it to attend and experience this time."

Nearby waited Sergio Zapater, who had come with his bags after riding a early transport from his city.

The most recent instance the fan had seen Radiohead was 22 years ago. On this day, he had reached at the location more than nine hours before the show was due to start, sure that he would be the lead person.

Instead he realized the fact that a new generation – one that seemingly did not mind morning queues or lines – had developed a passion for the band's "sophisticated, complex, emotional" tunes. "I was surprised to find so many youth here," he said with a chuckle. "What a nuisance, I thought I would be first in line because older people skip these events. But at present I'm further back."

After four nights in the Spanish capital, the group's series will proceed to the Italian city, the UK capital, Copenhagen and Germany, finishing on mid-December.