Queens of the Stone Age Captivate Dublin with High-Energy Performance

Queens of the Stone Age delivered a dynamic performance at Kilmainham, Dublin, on March 15, 2024, that left the audience exhilarated. The band, led by frontman Josh Homme, engaged the crowd with a mix of tracks from their latest album, In Times New Roman, and classic hits, creating an unforgettable concert experience.

As the show began, Homme asked the audience what they wanted to hear. A fan called out for “Straight Jacket Fitting,” a standout track from their recent release. Homme’s commanding presence was evident as he leaned over the barrier to connect with fans, stealing kisses and encouraging the crowd to “part the seas” for him to make his way through. His charisma set the tone for a night filled with energy and connection.

The setlist showcased a range of musical styles, from the driving force of “No One Knows” to the more nuanced “Smooth Sailing.” The band skillfully shifted between different musical vibes, illustrated by the contrasting sounds of “Negative Space” and the frenetic pace of “Time & Place.” The latter featured a remarkable slide solo from Troy Van Leeuwen and a unique modulation in Homme’s voice, showcasing the band’s versatility.

Homme expressed his affection for Ireland throughout the performance, laughing along with the crowd as they chanted for multi-instrumentalist Dean Fertita and sang “Happy Birthday” to bassist Michael Shuman. Shuman’s energetic bass playing was likened to a safe being pried open, adding to the night’s excitement. Each song was met with enthusiastic applause, particularly the frenetic “Little Sister” and the smooth “Make It Wit Chu,” during which Homme urged fans to lift each other onto their shoulders.

The climax of the night came with “Song For The Dead.” Drummer Jon Theodore unleashed an intense performance, pushing the boundaries of his energy as the band joined in for a thunderous finale. The audience erupted with a cathartic intensity, drawing the concert to a powerful conclusion without the need for an encore.

While some attendees expressed disappointment over the absence of support act Amyl and The Sniffers, the last-minute replacement by Cork’s Cliffords—featuring talented frontwoman Iona Lynch—was met with appreciation. Ultimately, the sheer force of Queens of the Stone Age overshadowed any initial grievances, reaffirming their status as one of the greatest rock bands today.

Reflecting on the concert, fans were left buzzing about the setlist, with only minor regrets about missed tracks like “If I Had A Tail” and “Emotion Sickness.” Nonetheless, the evening was a testament to the band’s ability to connect with their audience and deliver a ferocious performance that resonated deeply. The night at Kilmainham was a vibrant celebration of rock music, leaving attendees eager for the next opportunity to see Queens of the Stone Age live.