Rock ‘n roll kings, Queens of the Stone Age, returned to Austin for an enthralling performance that was nothing short of spectacular. Last Tuesday, the band made a memorable stop at Austin360 Amphitheater to give fans some love on their international “Villains” tour.
By Alicia Armijo
Complementing the headliner sublimely, Wolf Alice boldly opened up the show with a blistering set just as the sun was beginning to set over the countryside. These British alt-rockers immediately exhilarated the head-banging fans with their heavy instrumentals yet dreamy, melodic vocals. This energetic quartet is certainly one to keep an eye out for as they grow in the rock scene.
Queens of the Stone Age satisfied the masses with a powerhouse set packed with classic hits and new releases from their latest, limit-pushing album, “Villains.” Staring with “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now” and “The Way You Used to Do,” the band had fans fervently dancing and screaming lyrics along with frontman, Joshua Homme, establishing the new album as a sure success.
Homme is incomparable in his ability to engage hundreds of fans with his dynamic and ever-evolving musical creations, album after album. During their two-hour set, Homme created many uniquely memorable moments. In particular, he drew fans in close to sing along with him to the band’s time-honored, alluring hit, “Make It Wit Chu.” This one had the crowd swaying and dancing evermore provocatively than before with loved ones and new friends alike.
Homme not only expressed his passion for being in Austin to do something that the band truly loves, but he also did so with great humor. Before diving into a play of fan-favorite, “My God is the Sun,” Homme took the opportunity to emphasize that, “it’s wonderful to truly love something, where the person next to you and you are both like ‘fuck yeah.’ That’s how jean shorts were created…I come from the land of jean shorts….and it’s badass.” This comparison was random as could be, but in just the best way. The crowd laughed and smiled along with Homme at the thought.
Queens of the Stone Age were thriving in Austin and fans certainly hope that they will share their badassery again in the near future.
