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Just before dawn broke over Madrid, Francesco Puddu claimed a perfect position in front of the city's massive arena. He was among the initial supporters to appear at the venue, overflowing with expectations for the act's return to the stage in an extended period, launching a extensive continental journey.

"I'm incredibly excited. Like, I don't think it's real," shared the young man, who had travelled from his home country. "After such a lengthy hiatus, even should they perform the same song 20 times in a row, I'll be happy."

The hours passed quickly as attendees planned where to stand in front of the central stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had scored tickets for a event that had sold quickly in record time.

Discussion and Fan Reactions

The conflict in Gaza was an issue that had arisen throughout the day, considering an advocacy organization had appealed on people to boycott the performances, pointing to band member a member's previous show in Tel Aviv.

The matter continues as delicate for the artists; subsequent to news stories about the protest appeal, media representatives were denied from receiving tickets to report on the performance. On Tuesday, the musicians did not answer to a request for comment regarding the decision.

Throughout the country, where hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, the group's decisions had made some supporters divided. "I would have preferred if they had spoken out about it sooner," said Lola, a young woman, who asked that her full identity not be published.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 situation earlier in the Australian city, when the band's frontman, Thom Yorke, temporarily walked off stage during a solo gig after a pro-Palestinian shouter shouted: "What number of dead children will it take for you to denounce the violence in the region?"

That wasn't the appropriate approach to answer, said the fan. "I didn't like the action." In the end, however, the music had swayed her. "I clearly can't control my reactions when I listen to the sound ... I really wanted to be present for the voices and sounds that I've been following since I was a young teen."

Musician's Position

Yorke later, issued a comment saying the situation in Melbourne left him "surprised that my apparent non-response was somehow being taken as agreement," describing the official, the Israeli leader, and his government as "extremists" who "must be halted."

Before the European tour, the artist commented that he would "absolutely not" perform in the country. "I wouldn't want to be 5,000 miles in proximity to the current government," he added.

Loyal Followers Voice Their Views

Several stood by the artists, citing their established record of advocacy. "They have consistently supported for harmony, it's unlikely they've altered now," said one supporter. "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 the band take the stage, after becoming hooked when she first saw them performing in 1995.

On this occasion she had admissions for several concerts: opening night in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her nation of the European country. "They continually transform from one record, they never do the same thing," she said as she presented her two music-related body art. "Essentially, I was once a U2 fan but they continued with similar performances. And over time you lose interest."

Recent Followers Embraces the Fandom

With several fans, the fact that the group had remained seven years without playing live had brought a feeling of importance into the latest concerts. "It's possible there won't be another opportunity, the band has been around at this point," said Luka Arreaza, 20, prompting chuckles from those waiting in line with him. "Hence it was absolutely justified to come here and share this time."

Nearby waited another fan, who had appeared carrying his things after taking a early transport from the coastal town.

The last time the middle-aged man had seen the band was over two decades past. This time, he had reached at the location many hours before the concert was scheduled to begin, convinced that he would be the lead person.

Instead he discovered the fact that a recent fanbase – one that appeared unfazed by early hours or queues – had fallen for the band's "advanced, intricate, moving" tunes. "I was taken aback to find numerous teenagers here," he said with a laugh. "It's frustrating, I assumed I would be first in line because mature individuals don't do these things. But now my position is later."

After four nights in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will move to Bologna, London, the Danish city and the European nation, concluding on the winter date.