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Just before dawn broke over the Spanish capital, one eager fan claimed a prime spot in front of the the grand arena. He joined the initial supporters to appear at the site, overflowing with anticipation for the British band's first live show in almost a decade, launching a multi-city European tour.

"I feel overwhelming joy. It's hard to believe this is happening," remarked the 27-year-old, who had travelled from his home country. "Given the extended wait, even if they play one track again and again, I'll be content."

The wait seemed short as attendees discussed where to stand in front of the round platform, and celebrated the fact that they were among the privileged ones who had scored tickets for a tour that had sold out in record time.

Discussion and Supporters' Views

The conflict in Gaza was another topic that had arisen throughout the day, considering a pro-Palestinian campaign group had appealed on people to skip the concerts, referencing musician Jonny Greenwood's appearance in Tel Aviv.

The matter continues as contentious for the artists; following earlier coverage about the protest appeal, media representatives were blocked from receiving tickets to report on the opening night. On Tuesday, the group did not reply to a inquiry regarding the decision.

In Spain, where many thousands have marched in backing for the Palestinian cause, the group's decisions had left some fans divided. "I would have preferred if they had made a statement about it sooner," said a fan, 22, who asked that her full identity not be shared. "As someone who admires them, I felt somewhat let down. But at least I think they learned their lesson."

She pointed to the incident last year in Melbourne, when the lead singer, the musician, temporarily left the platform during a solo gig after a protester heckler shouted: "How many more children killed will it take for you to denounce the violence in the region?"

This wasn't the proper manner to answer, said the attendee. "I disapproved of his response." Ultimately, however, the songs had won her over. "I clearly cannot manage my emotions when I experience their songs ... I was determined to come and listen the tunes and lyrics that I've been enjoying since I was 12 years old."

Musician's Position

Yorke later, issued a comment saying the situation in the city left him "surprised that my apparent non-response was somehow being taken as involvement," describing the official, the Israeli leader, and his regime as "hardliners" who "need to be stopped."

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

Longtime Supporters Voice Their Views

A number of stood by the artists, citing their long history of social engagement. "They've always stood for harmony, they can't have changed now," said a dedicated fan. "I believe the people who know them, understand that they are on the correct side."

The evening's performance was to be the half-century mark she had seen the band perform, after becoming hooked when she first saw them in concert in the mid-nineties.

For these events she had tickets for several concerts: the premiere in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her home country of the European country. "They always change from album to album, they don't replicate the same thing," she said as she displayed her pair of music-related body art. "Basically, I was once a supporter of another band but they kept doing identical actions. And eventually you get bored."

Younger Fans Embraces the Community

For some, the fact that the band had been many seasons without performing together had introduced a feeling of importance into the latest concerts. "There might not be subsequent occasion, the band has been around at this point," said an attendee, a young man, eliciting amusement from those queuing up with him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to be present and share this moment."

Behind him stood another fan, who had come with his bags after catching a morning train from Valencia.

The previous occasion the fan had seen Radiohead was over two decades past. For this event, he had arrived at the site over half a day before the show was due to start, sure that he would be the first in line.

Instead he discovered the fact that a new generation – one that seemed comfortable with morning queues or lines – had fallen for the band's "advanced, intricate, moving" tunes. "I was surprised to see numerous teenagers here," he said with a laugh. "What a nuisance, I assumed I would be the lead attendee because older people don't do these events. But now I'm further back."

Following several performances in the Spanish capital, Radiohead's tour will travel to Bologna, London, Copenhagen and the European nation, concluding on mid-December.