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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, one eager fan claimed a prime location in front of the city's imposing Movistar Arena. He stood with the first devotees to appear at the venue, buzzing with expectations for the act's return to the stage in an extended period, starting a 20-date European tour.

"I'm incredibly excited. Like, I don't think this moment has arrived," shared the 27-year-old, who had travelled from his home country. "Given the extended wait, even if they sing a single tune 20 times in a row, I'll be content."

Time flew by as fans discussed where to stand in front of the circular stage, and reveled in the fact that they were among the lucky ones who had obtained tickets for a event that had sold out in a very short time.

Discussion and Fan Reactions

The war in Gaza was an issue that had arisen throughout the day, due to the fact that a pro-Palestinian campaign group had called on people to avoid the tour, pointing to guitarist a member's 2024 performance in Tel Aviv.

The topic seemingly remains contentious for the band; following earlier coverage about the demonstration request, journalists were prevented from getting tickets to review the opening night. On Tuesday, the band did not reply to a question regarding the decision.

Throughout the country, where many thousands have marched in backing for the Palestinian cause, the band's actions had made some supporters divided. "It might have been better if they had spoken out about it sooner," said Lola, 22, who preferred that her full identity not be published. "As someone who admires them, It was disappointing. But at least I think they realized their mistake."

She referenced the incident last year in Melbourne, when the lead singer, the artist, briefly walked off stage during a personal show after a activist heckler yelled: "What number of children killed will it take for you to condemn the atrocities in the region?"

It was not the right way to react, said Lola. "I was unhappy with that reaction." Finally, however, the music had convinced her. "I clearly cannot manage my reactions when I hear their songs ... I really wanted to come and listen the tunes and lyrics that I've been enjoying since I was a young teen."

Artist's Statement

Yorke later, made a declaration saying the situation in the city left him "surprised that my perceived quiet was somehow being seen as involvement," labeling the leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his government as "extremists" who "should be opposed."

Prior to the continental shows, Yorke commented that he would "certainly not" perform in the country. "I have no desire to be 5,000 miles in proximity to the Netanyahu regime," he added.

Loyal Followers Share Their Views

Some defended the artists, referencing their long history of advocacy. "They've always stood for peace, they wouldn't shift now," said Alessandra Fossati. "In my view the those familiar with them, know that they are on the just side."

Tuesday's concert was to be the half-century mark she had seen the group perform, after becoming hooked when she originally attended them in concert in 1995.

This time she had tickets for multiple performances: the premiere in the Spanish city and every single performance in her native land of the European country. "They always change from album to album, they never do similar shows," she said as she showed off her two music-related ink. "I mean, I used to be a supporter of another band but they kept doing similar performances. And after a while you get bored."

Younger Fans Embraces the Fanbase

For some, the fact that the group had gone an extended period without playing live had injected a sense of urgency into the current series. "It's possible there won't be another opportunity, the band has been around at this point," said Luka Arreaza, 20, prompting amusement from those queuing up around him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to come here and share this moment."

In the vicinity stood an attendee, who had appeared with his bags after catching a morning train from his city.

The previous occasion the 53-year-old had seen the band was 22 years ago. On this day, he had arrived at the location over half a day before the concert was set to open, convinced that he would be the lead person.

Instead he found himself confronted by the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemed comfortable with morning queues or lines – had fallen for the band's "evolved, elaborate, soul-touching" tunes. "It amazed me to see all these youth here," he said with a chuckle. "How annoying, I thought I would be the lead attendee because mature individuals avoid these events. But currently I'm further back."

After four nights in the Spanish capital, Radiohead's tour will move to the Italian city, the UK capital, Copenhagen and Germany, finishing on the winter date.