🔗 Share this article

In the early morning hours over Madrid, one eager fan claimed a perfect spot in front of the the grand arena. He was among the earliest Radiohead fans to gather at the site, buzzing with hopes for the group's first live show in seven years, starting a multi-city continental journey.

"I feel overwhelming joy. I can scarcely accept this moment has arrived," shared the fan, who had journeyed from his home country. "Given the extended wait, even if they perform the same song repeatedly, I'll be content."

The wait seemed short as fans plotted where to position themselves in front of the circular stage, and enjoyed the fact that they were among the privileged ones who had scored tickets for a event that had sold quickly in a very short time.

Controversy and Supporters' Views

The war in Gaza was a subject that had been discussed throughout the day, considering a pro-Palestinian campaign group had urged on people to skip the tour, citing musician a member's appearance in Tel Aviv.

The topic seemingly remains contentious for the artists; following earlier coverage about the protest appeal, reporters were prevented from getting tickets to report on the opening night. On the day of the show, the band did not respond to a request for comment regarding the decision.

In Spain, where a large number have marched in support of Palestine, the group's decisions had left some fans conflicted. "It might have been better if they had made a statement about it much earlier," said a fan, 22, who preferred that her last name not be shared. "As someone who admires them, I was a little bit disappointed. But fortunately I think they learned their lesson."

She mentioned the event last year in Melbourne, when the vocalist, Thom Yorke, briefly walked off stage during a personal show after a activist disrupter yelled: "How many dead children will it take for you to condemn the violence in Gaza?"

That wasn't the right way to respond, said Lola. "I didn't like his response." Ultimately, however, the music had won her over. "I obviously cannot manage my reactions when I experience their songs ... I truly desired to be present for the tunes and lyrics that I've been following since I was a young teen."

Artist's Statement

Yorke later, released a statement saying the event in the city left him "stunned that my supposed silence was somehow being taken as agreement," describing the leader, the Israeli leader, and his regime as "hardliners" who "must be halted."

Prior to the continental shows, the singer stated that he would "definitely not" perform in the country. "I prefer not to be any distance close to the leadership," he added.

Loyal Followers Voice Their Views

A number of supported the artists, citing their extensive background of activism. "They've always stood for harmony, they wouldn't shift now," said one supporter. "In my view the individuals acquainted with them, recognize that they are on the just side."

The evening's performance was to be the half-century mark she had seen the group take the stage, after becoming hooked when she initially witnessed them live in decades ago.

On this occasion she had tickets for multiple performances: the premiere in the Spanish city and all the appearances in her nation of Italy. "They always change from release to release, they don't replicate identical performances," she said as she presented her couple of band-inspired ink. "Essentially, I used to be a supporter of another band but they continued with similar performances. And over time you get bored."

Younger Fans Discovers the Community

Among certain attendees, the fact that the group had gone an extended period without appearing as a group had brought a awareness of rarity into the current series. "Perhaps there will be no another opportunity, the group has aged at this point," said Luka Arreaza, in his twenties, causing chuckles from those waiting in line beside him. "Therefore it was truly valuable to be present and share this time."

Nearby sat another fan, who had come luggage in hand after catching a morning train from his city.

The last time the middle-aged man had seen Radiohead was in a different era. On this day, he had arrived at the location over half a day before the performance was scheduled to begin, sure that he would be the first in line.

Instead he realized the fact that a recent fanbase – one that seemingly did not mind early hours or lines – had become enamored with the group's "advanced, intricate, moving" tunes. "It amazed me to encounter so many teenagers here," he said with a laugh. "What a nuisance, I thought I would be first in line because adults skip these events. But at present I'm 25th."

After four nights in the Spanish capital, Radiohead's tour will travel to Bologna, London, the Danish city and the European nation, ending on the winter date.