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As the sun prepared to rise over Madrid, Francesco Puddu secured a ideal position in front of the the grand Movistar Arena. He joined the initial supporters to arrive at the site, overflowing with expectations for the act's comeback performance in almost a decade, kicking off a extensive continental journey.

"I'm incredibly excited. Like, I don't think this moment has arrived," stated the young man, who had come from Italy. "Given the extended wait, even should they sing one track again and again, I'll be happy."

Time flew by as attendees plotted where to stand in front of the central stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had obtained tickets for a tour that had been fully booked in minutes.

Controversy and Audience Responses

The situation in Gaza was another topic that had been discussed throughout the day, due to the fact that an advocacy organization had called on people to avoid the performances, referencing band member a member's appearance in Tel Aviv.

This issue appears to be delicate for the group; after reports emerged about the protest appeal, reporters were prevented from receiving tickets to review the performance. On Tuesday, the band did not reply to a question regarding the decision.

In Spain, where many thousands have taken to the streets in backing for Palestine, the artists' stance had made some supporters divided. "It might have been better if they had made a statement about it sooner," said a fan, in her twenties, who preferred that her full identity not be revealed. "As a fan, It was disappointing. But fortunately I think they understood the situation."

She referenced the event previously in Melbourne, when the vocalist, Thom Yorke, briefly exited the performance during a solo gig after a activist shouter called out: "What number of children killed will it take for you to denounce the atrocities in the region?"

That wasn't the right way to answer, said Lola. "I didn't like the action." In the end, however, the melodies had convinced her. "I clearly have no power over my reactions when I experience the sound ... I was determined to come and listen the tunes and lyrics that I've been following since I was a child."

Band's Response

Subsequently, made a declaration saying the incident in Melbourne left him "surprised that my perceived quiet was somehow being interpreted as agreement," labeling the prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his regime as "hardliners" who "should be opposed."

Ahead of the performances, the singer stated that he would "definitely not" appear in Israel. "I prefer not to be any distance close to the current government," he remarked.

Dedicated Fans Share Their Views

A number of stood by the artists, referencing their established record of social engagement. "They've always stood for harmony, they can't have changed now," said one supporter. "In my view the people who know them, recognize that they are on the right side."

The opening show was to be the half-century mark she had seen Radiohead take the stage, after developing a passion when she first saw them live in 1995.

On this occasion she had admissions for multiple performances: opening night in the Spanish city and every single performance in her native land of Italy. "They always change from album to album, they don't replicate the same thing," she said as she displayed her two Radiohead-themed ink. "Essentially, I used to be a follower of different artists but they kept doing the same things. And eventually you become tired."

Younger Fans Joins the Fandom

With several fans, the fact that the artists had remained many seasons without performing together had brought a sense of urgency into the current series. "Perhaps there will be no another opportunity, Radiohead is pretty old at this point," said a young fan, 20, prompting laughter from those waiting in line with him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to be present and share this event."

Behind him stood Sergio Zapater, who had appeared with his bags after catching a daybreak rail from Valencia.

The last time the 53-year-old had seen Radiohead was over two decades past. On this day, he had arrived at the site over half a day before the performance was due to start, sure that he would be the lead person.

Instead he discovered the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemed comfortable with early hours or waiting – had developed a passion for Radiohead's "evolved, elaborate, soul-touching" music. "I was taken aback to encounter so many young people here," he said with a chuckle. "It's frustrating, I assumed I would be first in line because adults don't do these things. But currently I'm further back."

After four nights in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will move to Bologna, the UK capital, Copenhagen and the European nation, finishing on 12 December.