The atmosphere on Saturday night (12/16) was absolutely electric as fans from all over the southland came together to experience an incredible performance by Queens of the Stone Age at the legendary Kia Forum in Inglewood. Led by Josh Homme and his talented bandmates, they delivered a mesmerizing 20-song set that seamlessly blended newer tracks with beloved classics, creating what many called “a show for the ages.” There final US stop on their 2023 The End is Nero Tour was hailed as their best performance this year, solidifying their status as a once-in-a-generation band and emphasizing their immense importance in the music industry.
Taking the stage before Queens of the Stone Age, the sensational band Spiritualized delivered a performance that left no room for disappointment. As they launched into their opening song “Hey Jane,” the crowd was instantly captivated by their distinctive trademark sound. Led by frontman Jason Pierce, the band mesmerized the audience with an awe-inspiring 8-song opening set. Their ethereal melodies and haunting vocals created a transcendent musical experience that seemed to transport listeners to another dimension (with me being one of them). The spellbound audience was entranced by Spiritualized’s ability to craft sonic landscapes that truly took their fans on a journey beyond imagination.
Now, let’s dive into the much-anticipated performance by Queens of the Stone Age. Although I had never witnessed their live show before, I had heard nothing but rave reviews, so my excitement was palpable as the moment arrived. Following a brief 20-minute break, the stage burst to life as the band finally unleashed their signature energy and intensity. The first chords of “No One Knows” ignited the crowd into a frenzy of exhilaration, and there was no turning back from that point forward. Josh Homme took command of the stage, delivering powerhouse vocals and blistering guitar riffs that sent electrifying waves surging through the Kia Forum. It clear to the 10,000+ in attendance that this was going to be one kick ass show.
Throughout Queens of the Stone Age’s 20-song set, it was truly amazing to witness the band’s evolution in both their musical choices and stage presence. They effortlessly blended genres, seamlessly transitioning from thunderous rock anthems like “Burn the Witch” to captivating melodic tracks such as “I Sat by the Ocean.” Their ability to explore different styles while maintaining a cohesive sound was a testament to their growth as musicians. In addition, it would be remiss not to emphasize the mind-blowing musical prowess displayed by Troy Van Leeuwen on guitar, Michael Shuman on bass, Dean Fertita on keys, and Jon Theodore on drums. Each member showcased their virtuosity and proved why they are among the very best in the business today.
Saturday’s show reached its conclusion with a mesmerizing four-song encore. After a brief bit of respite, the band returned to the stage, treating the crowd to an unforgettable experience with captivating performances of “Regular John,” “God Is in the Radio,” “Go With the Flow,” and finally, “A Song for the Dead.” These carefully chosen selections served as the perfect grand finale, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to witness this extraordinary night of music at Kia. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Queens of the Stone Age or Spiritualized for years, or simply someone seeking a transcendent live music experience, this star-filled night was truly exceptional. Both performances were truly remarkable and will be remembered for years to come.
SPIRITUALIZED
