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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, Francesco Puddu claimed a ideal position in front of the city's imposing Movistar Arena. He stood with the earliest supporters to appear at the venue, overflowing with hopes for the act's comeback performance in seven years, starting a multi-city tour across Europe.

"My excitement is through the roof. It's hard to believe this is happening," remarked the young man, who had travelled from Italy. "Given the extended wait, even were they sing one track repeatedly, I'll be happy."

The hours passed quickly as attendees planned where to stand in front of the round platform, and reveled in the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had scored tickets for a tour that had sold out in a very short time.

Controversy and Supporters' Views

The conflict in Gaza was an issue that had been discussed throughout the day, due to the fact that an advocacy organization had appealed on people to avoid the performances, citing musician a member's previous show in Israel.

The matter continues as delicate for the band; after reports emerged about the protest appeal, reporters were prevented from obtaining tickets to review the Madrid concert. On Tuesday, the band did not respond to a request for comment regarding the choice.

Throughout the country, where many thousands have marched in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, the artists' stance had caused some followers divided. "It might have been better if they had spoken out about it before," said Lola, 22, who requested that her last name not be revealed. "As a fan, I felt somewhat let down. But at the very least I think they understood the situation."

She mentioned the incident earlier in the Australian city, when the band's frontman, the musician, briefly walked off stage during a solo gig after a activist shouter called out: "What number of young lives lost will it take for you to denounce the violence in the region?"

It was not the right way to respond, said the attendee. "I didn't like that reaction." Finally, however, the melodies had won her over. "I obviously can't control my emotions when I hear their songs ... I truly desired to come and listen the voices and sounds that I've been listening to since I was a young teen."

Musician's Position

Subsequently, made a declaration saying the situation in the city left him "stunned that my apparent non-response was somehow being seen as complicity," describing the leader, the politician, and his administration as "hardliners" who "should be opposed."

Prior to the continental shows, the artist stated that he would "certainly not" play in the country. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere anywhere near the current government," he remarked.

Dedicated Fans Share Their Thoughts

A number of stood by the band, referencing their extensive background of social engagement. "They have consistently supported for peace, they can't have changed now," said a dedicated fan. "I think the those familiar with them, recognize that they are on the just side."

The evening's performance was to be the fiftieth occasion she had seen Radiohead perform, after falling in love when she originally attended them live in 1995.

This time she had admissions for five of the shows: the first event in Madrid and every single performance in her native land of Italy. "They continually transform from release to release, they never do similar shows," she said as she displayed her two band-inspired body art. "Basically, I used to be a follower of different artists but they continued with similar performances. And after a while you lose interest."

Recent Followers Joins the Fanbase

For some, the fact that the group had been many seasons without appearing as a group had injected a awareness of rarity into the latest concerts. "Perhaps there will be no future chance, the group has aged at this point," said a young fan, in his twenties, prompting laughter from those queuing up beside him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to come here and experience this moment."

Behind him stood Sergio Zapater, who had arrived carrying his things after riding a morning train from Valencia.

The previous occasion the middle-aged man had seen Radiohead was in a different era. This time, he had arrived at the venue more than nine hours before the show was due to start, sure that he would be the lead person.

Contrarily he realized the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemed comfortable with early hours or queues – had become enamored with Radiohead's "sophisticated, complex, emotional" music. "It amazed me to find numerous teenagers here," he said with a smile. "It's frustrating, I thought I would be the lead attendee because mature individuals don't do such activities. But currently I'm further back."

Following several performances in Madrid, Radiohead's tour will move to Bologna, London, Copenhagen and Germany, concluding on 12 December.