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In the early morning hours over Madrid, one eager fan secured a perfect spot in front of the city's imposing arena. He was among the earliest Radiohead fans to arrive at the location, filled with expectations for the British band's comeback performance in almost a decade, starting a 20-date continental journey.

"My excitement is through the roof. It's hard to believe this is happening," shared the young man, who had come from Italy. "It's been so long, even should they perform a single tune repeatedly, I'll be content."

The hours passed quickly as attendees discussed where to position themselves in front of the circular stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the lucky ones who had scored tickets for a tour that had sold out in minutes.

Discussion and Supporters' Views

The conflict in Gaza was another topic that had arisen throughout the day, considering the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel had appealed on people to avoid the concerts, citing band member Jonny Greenwood's previous show in Israel.

This issue appears to be contentious for the artists; following earlier coverage about the boycott call, reporters were blocked from obtaining tickets to review the opening night. On Tuesday, the musicians did not respond to a request for comment regarding the choice.

Throughout the country, where a large number have taken to the streets in support of the Palestinian cause, the band's actions had made some supporters conflicted. "It might have been better if they had expressed their views about it before," said a fan, a young woman, who preferred that her last name not be revealed. "As someone who admires them, It was disappointing. But fortunately I think they understood the situation."

She mentioned the situation previously in the Australian city, when the band's frontman, the artist, temporarily exited the performance during a solo gig after a protester heckler called out: "How many young lives lost will it take for you to condemn the atrocities in Gaza?"

This wasn't the appropriate approach to respond, said the fan. "I disapproved of that reaction." In the end, however, the melodies had swayed her. "I clearly cannot manage my emotions when I experience music ... I truly desired to attend and hear the music and vocals that I've been enjoying since I was a young teen."

Artist's Statement

Afterward, issued a comment saying the event in Melbourne left him "surprised that my perceived quiet was somehow being interpreted as agreement," calling the leader, the Israeli leader, and his administration as "radicals" who "should be opposed."

Prior to the continental shows, the singer declared that he would "definitely not" perform in Israel. "I wouldn't want to be any distance close to the Netanyahu regime," he remarked.

Loyal Followers Voice Their Opinions

Several supported the artists, citing their extensive background of social engagement. "They have long advocated for non-violence, they can't have changed now," said a dedicated fan. "I believe the people who know them, understand that they are on the just side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the 50th time she had seen Radiohead play, after developing a passion when she initially witnessed them in concert in the mid-nineties.

This time she had admissions for several concerts: the premiere in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her native land of the European country. "They continually transform from one record, they avoid repeating identical performances," she said as she showed off her couple of band-inspired ink. "I mean, I used to be a U2 fan but they continued with the same things. And after a while you get bored."

New Generation Joins the Fandom

For some, the fact that the group had remained an extended period without appearing as a group had brought a feeling of importance into the new tour. "It's possible there won't be future chance, the group has aged at this point," said Luka Arreaza, 20, prompting laughter from those queuing up with him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to come here and enjoy this time."

Nearby stood an attendee, who had appeared carrying his things after catching a early transport from his city.

The previous occasion the middle-aged man had seen the band was over two decades past. This time, he had arrived at the location more than nine hours before the performance was set to open, certain that he would be the initial attendee.

Instead he found himself confronted by the fact that a new generation – one that seemed comfortable with early hours or lines – had become enamored with the band's "advanced, intricate, moving" songs. "I was surprised to find numerous youth here," he said with a smile. "How annoying, I believed I would be the lead attendee because older people don't do these events. But now I'm further back."

Following several performances in the Spanish capital, the group's series will proceed to Bologna, the UK capital, the Danish city and Germany, finishing on 12 December.