Queens of The Stone Age Announce Concert Film

Queens of the Stone Age have announced a groundbreaking concert film titled “Alive in the Catacombs,” which chronicles their unique performance set deep within the Paris Catacombs. Filmed in July 2024, this performance marked the first-ever concert within these eerie tunnels that house the skeletal remains of millions of people interred during the 1700s. Directed by Thomas Rames and produced by La Blogothèque, the film is a significant departure from traditional concert settings, offering an intimate auditory and visual experience unlike any other.

The band’s frontman, Josh Homme, along with fellow members Troy Van Leeuwen, Michael Shuman, Dean Fertita, and Jon Theodore, were joined by a three-piece string section for this special occasion. This performance not only fulfilled Homme’s two-decade-long ambition to play in the Catacombs but also showcased their music in a stripped-down acoustic fashion, with elements like chains and chopsticks acting as percussion instruments. This minimalist approach was a necessity as the venue lacked electrical outlets, but it also allowed the band to creatively engage with the natural acoustics of the space. Homme described this opportunity as playing for the “biggest audience” they’ve ever had, referring to the millions of remains present.

The idea to perform in such a haunting location emerged from Homme’s initial visit almost twenty years prior. Despite pursuing the concept for years, it wasn’t until 2024 that the city of Paris granted permission for this extraordinary performance. The Catacombs, known for their expansive network of tunnels beneath the city, provided a haunting backdrop that influenced every aspect of the band’s performance—from the song selection to the acoustic setup. Homme stated that the environment dictated the entirety of their performance, describing it as an experience where the space is in charge, compelling musicians to adapt to its austere setting.

“Alive in the Catacombs” is set to premiere on the band’s website on June 5, with the opportunity for fans to purchase or rent the film. Those who pre-order by June 7 will also gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes footage, offering an in-depth look into this one-of-a-kind event. The band also plans to release an audio-only version soon, highlighting the flexibility and wide appeal of this unique concert experience.

The Paris Catacombs performance arrives as Queens of the Stone Age prepare to hit the road for their first shows since the summer of 2024. Their upcoming tour includes a series of dates in Europe and the U.S., underscoring their resurgence following Homme’s health challenges that necessitated the cancellation of several 2024 shows. Their live performance in the Catacombs acts as a pivotal comeback, positioning Queens of the Stone Age once more at the forefront of innovative music experiences.

“Alive in the Catacombs” not only immortalizes an unprecedented musical event but also contributes to the broadening of how live performances can be conceptualized and executed. It challenges the conventional boundaries of concert settings by incorporating historical, cultural, and spatial elements into the performance’s essence. By achieving what no other band has done within the Catacombs, Queens of the Stone Age have not only created a milestone in their career but have also set a new standard for live performances, showcasing the potential of immersive and site-specific music experiences.