Josh Homme has long since achieved the status of living legend. Does Perfecth measure up?
Josh Homme’s original band, Kyuss, had a somewhat larger than you think impact on the world of stoner rock. When Homme walked away the result was Queens of the Stone Age. The original line-up had several members of Kyuss in it, however there has been a revolving door of musicians over the years. Nick Olivieri was memorable for performing live naked on several occasions. Former Nirvana drummer and Foo Fighter’s frontman Dave Grohl returned to the drum kit for 2002’s career highlight Songs For The Deaf. That album is pushing for greatest album of all time, let alone the best thing Queens of The Stone Age ever put out. ‘No One Knows’ and ‘Go With The Flow’ remain two of the greatest tracks of the 21st century.
Homme is now 53 and has constantly shown himself capable of sophisticated reinvention. He also has a great love of music and rock. Side projects such as Them Crooked Vultures, Eagles of Death Metal and Desert Sessions have shown all sides of his guitar loving personality. Perfecth is overall a mellower outing but still finds the odd moment for a heavier burst of guitar. It is a solid, mature piece of work showcasing the amazing range of Homme’s vocals and still at times manages an undercurrent of light menace.
‘Insignificant Other’ is representative of the whole album. Unmistakably Queens of The Stone Age with that gorgeous voice, like a combination of honey and whisky forged in long desert evenings. Unmistakable due to the guitar tones. On this album there are nods to melodic 70s rock. ‘Where The Goth Girls At?’ sneaks in some lovely orchestration under one of the albums heavier rock moments.
‘From The Cliff’ is mostly just acoustic guitar. One of a number of tracks dwelling on love across the album. ‘Sunday’ is a 70s glam-rock stomp with a groovier bassline.
‘Easy Street’ was a fascinating first single, reflecting the mellower air to follow. There is a real Spanish vibe, almost flamenco in the backing. There are some great nuggets hidden in the lyrics:
“Those supposed to love me the most are breaking my heart
Wish I could share a bit more, too petrified” and
“Down on the floor, under the couch are the keys to life
Been there the whole time” Somehow both silly and true all at once.
Nine albums deep Queens of The Stone Age continue to be one of the most exciting bands on the planet. Never standing still, always a benchmark of high quality. That living legend status is safe enough for now.
Essential Tracks: ‘Insignificant Other,’ ‘Where All The Goth Girls At?,’ ‘From The Cliff’ and ‘Easy Street.’
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