In an audacious move that only Queens of the Stone Age could pull off, the band has released a concert film that promises to be as haunting as it is mesmerizing: ‘Alive in the Catacombs.’ Led by the enigmatic Josh Homme, the group steps away from their signature electric fury to embrace an acoustic set in the hauntingly evocative Paris Catacombs, marking the first time any band has been allowed to record in this historic underground ossuary.
Devoid of electricity, the band turns to acoustic instruments, with Homme wielding a car battery-powered Wurlitzer organ—a risky choice in the dank, mysterious environment. Drummer Jon Theodore provides an unconventional rhythmic backbone with sandpaper-covered blocks and chains, while a three-piece string section elevates the sonic landscape. The setlist is a departure from their most well-known hits, favoring deep cuts and a newly reimagined version of ‘Paper Machete’ from their latest album, ‘In Times New Roman…’.
As Homme roams the dimly lit, bone-lined corridors, his guitar takes a backseat, allowing his vocals—which have matured impressively over nearly thirty years—to take center stage. The performance is a testament to the band’s depth, revealing an oft-overlooked facet of their artistry.
For fans, ‘Alive in the Catacombs’ might not shock, but it certainly delights. It underscores what they have long understood: Queens of the Stone Age’s music possesses a beauty that can thrive even in the most unexpected of settings. The film is available for streaming and download on the band’s official website, with audio set to hit all major platforms on June 13. A limited edition vinyl of the soundtrack has already sold out, a testament to the project’s instant allure.
The film’s track listing features a medley of ‘Running Joke’ and ‘Paper Machete,’ alongside selections like ‘Kalopsia’ and ‘Villains of Circumstance,’ each piece resonating with the ambiance of their unique venue. With ‘Alive in the Catacombs,’ Queens of the Stone Age not only fulfill a creative dream but also offer their fans an immersive experience that is as atmospheric as it is intimate—a fitting celebration of their enduring musical journey.
