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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, one eager fan secured a perfect spot in front of the city's grand concert venue. He stood with the first devotees to arrive at the location, overflowing with expectations for the British band's first live show in seven years, starting a extensive tour across Europe.

"My excitement is through the roof. It's hard to believe it's real," remarked the 27-year-old, who had travelled from Italy. "It's been so long, even were they sing a single tune again and again, I'll be content."

Time flew by as attendees planned their ideal spots in front of the circular stage, and reveled in the fact that they were among the fortunate ones who had scored tickets for a concert series that had sold out in minutes.

Controversy and Fan Reactions

The conflict in Gaza was an issue that had arisen throughout the day, considering the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel had urged on people to boycott the performances, citing band member Jonny Greenwood's previous show in Israel.

The topic seemingly remains sensitive for the band; subsequent to news stories about the boycott call, media representatives were prevented from getting tickets to review the performance. On the day of the show, the musicians did not reply to a request for comment regarding the choice.

In Spain, where a large number have demonstrated in support of the Palestinian cause, the artists' stance had caused some followers conflicted. "It would have been nice if they had made a statement about it sooner," said a fan, a young woman, who requested that her full identity not be revealed. "As someone who admires them, I was a little bit disappointed. But at the very least I think they learned their lesson."

She referenced the incident previously in Melbourne, when the vocalist, the artist, momentarily left the platform during a individual concert after a protester shouter yelled: "How many young lives lost will it take for you to condemn the atrocities in the region?"

This wasn't the right way to respond, said the fan. "I didn't like the action." Finally, however, the music had swayed her. "I clearly have no power over my emotions when I listen to their songs ... I truly desired to come and listen the tunes and lyrics that I've been enjoying since I was a young teen."

Musician's Position

Afterward, released a statement saying the event in Melbourne left him "stunned that my supposed silence was somehow being seen as complicity," labeling the prime minister, the Israeli leader, and his government as "hardliners" who "need to be stopped."

Ahead of the performances, the singer commented that he would "certainly not" appear in Israel. "I have no desire to be any distance close to the current government," he added.

Longtime Supporters Share Their Views

A number of defended the group, referencing their extensive background of activism. "They have long advocated for non-violence, they can't have changed now," said one supporter. "I think the individuals acquainted with them, recognize that they are on the correct side."

The opening show was to be the half-century mark she had seen the band play, after becoming hooked when she initially witnessed them performing in 1995.

This time she had tickets for several concerts: opening night in Madrid and every single performance in her native land of Italy. "They always change from one record, they never do similar shows," she said as she showed off her two band-inspired tattoos. "I mean, I formerly was a follower of different artists but they continued with identical actions. And after a while you get bored."

New Generation Joins the Fandom

With several fans, the fact that the group had been an extended period without playing live had introduced a feeling of importance into the latest concerts. "It's possible there won't be subsequent occasion, Radiohead is pretty old at this point," said a young fan, a young man, eliciting laughter from those waiting in line with him. "Hence it was absolutely justified to be present and share this time."

In the vicinity stood Sergio Zapater, who had appeared with his bags after catching a early transport from his city.

The last time the fan had seen Radiohead was over two decades past. This time, he had arrived at the location over half a day before the performance was due to start, sure that he would be the lead person.

However he found himself confronted by the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemingly did not mind morning queues or lines – had become enamored with Radiohead's "advanced, intricate, moving" music. "I was surprised to encounter all these teenagers here," he said with a laugh. "How annoying, I believed I would be the initial person because adults skip such activities. But currently my position is later."

Following several performances in the Spanish capital, Radiohead's tour will travel to Bologna, the UK capital, Copenhagen and Germany, finishing on 12 December.