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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, one eager fan claimed a ideal location in front of the city's imposing arena. He stood with the initial supporters to gather at the location, overflowing with expectations for the British band's comeback performance in almost a decade, kicking off a 20-date tour across Europe.

"I'm incredibly excited. I can scarcely accept this is happening," stated the fan, who had come from his home country. "It's been so long, even if they sing one track repeatedly, I'll be content."

Time flew by as fans planned where to stand in front of the circular stage, and celebrated the fact that they were among the lucky ones who had scored tickets for a event that had sold quickly in record time.

Controversy and Audience Responses

The war in Gaza was another topic that had come up throughout the day, given that a pro-Palestinian campaign group had called on people to avoid the concerts, referencing band member Jonny Greenwood's 2024 performance in Tel Aviv.

The matter continues as contentious for the group; subsequent to news stories about the protest appeal, journalists were prevented from obtaining tickets to report on the opening night. On the day of the show, the musicians did not reply to a question regarding the action.

In Spain, where a large number have demonstrated in backing for the Palestinian cause, the group's decisions had left some fans conflicted. "It would have been nice if they had spoken out about it sooner," said Lola, a young woman, who requested that her last name not be shared. "As a fan, It was disappointing. But at the very least I think they understood the situation."

She pointed to the situation previously in Melbourne, when the vocalist, the artist, temporarily exited the performance during a solo gig after a activist heckler called out: "How many more children killed will it take for you to condemn the genocide in Gaza?"

This wasn't the right way to respond, said the fan. "I didn't like his response." In the end, however, the melodies had swayed her. "I clearly have no power over my reactions when I listen to their songs ... I truly desired to attend and hear the music and vocals that I've been enjoying since I was a child."

Band's Response

Subsequently, released a statement saying the event in Melbourne left him "stunned that my apparent non-response was somehow being interpreted as involvement," describing the prime minister, the politician, and his regime as "extremists" who "must be halted."

Before the European tour, the singer commented that he would "definitely not" appear in Israel. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere in proximity to the current government," he added.

Dedicated Fans Voice Their Thoughts

A number of supported the group, pointing to their long history of social engagement. "They have consistently supported for non-violence, it's unlikely they've altered now," said Alessandra Fossati. "I believe 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 the band take the stage, after falling in love when she initially witnessed them live in 1995.

For these events she had tickets for several concerts: the premiere in Madrid and all the appearances in her home country of the European country. "They always change from release to release, they avoid repeating the same thing," she said as she presented her two Radiohead-themed tattoos. "Basically, I used to be a supporter of another band but they repeated identical actions. And eventually you get bored."

Younger Fans Discovers the Fanbase

For some, the fact that the band had gone many seasons without appearing as a group had injected a feeling of importance into the new tour. "Perhaps there will be no subsequent occasion, the group has aged at this point," said an attendee, in his twenties, causing chuckles from those queuing up with him. "So it was really worth it to come here and experience this event."

Nearby waited Sergio Zapater, who had appeared carrying his things after riding a daybreak rail from his city.

The most recent instance the fan had seen the band was over two decades past. This time, he had reached at the venue many hours before the show was due to start, certain that he would be the first in line.

Contrarily he realized the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemed comfortable with morning queues or waiting – had fallen for Radiohead's "evolved, elaborate, soul-touching" music. "I was surprised to see all these teenagers here," he said with a laugh. "It's frustrating, I assumed I would be the initial person because older people don't do these things. But currently my position is later."

Subsequent to multiple shows in the Spanish capital, the group's series will proceed to Bologna, the UK capital, Copenhagen and Germany, finishing on 12 December.