Queens of the Stone Age Rocks the Crowd at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre

Introduction

On Thursday night, August 3, Queens of the Stone Age kicked off their highly anticipated “The End is Nero” U.S. tour at the Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre. As the opening night of a concert tour can be unpredictable, fans were unsure whether the band would be torqued up and excited or shaking off some rust. However, it quickly became apparent that Queens of the Stone Age was ready to deliver an unforgettable performance.

A Seasoned Band Ready to Rock

Having already been on the road this year, supporting their new album “In New Times Roman…” in Europe, the heavy rock quintet was already in peak performing condition. This European tour gave them the opportunity to get back into the groove after a six-year hiatus from touring. Additionally, the choice of Michigan as the starting point for the tour had a special significance. Frontman Josh Homme expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “I can’t think of a better city to start” the tour in. Detroit has been a significant city for Queens of the Stone Age since their early days, and it is also the hometown of Royal Oak-raised guitarist-keyboardist Dean Fertita.

A High-Energy Performance

The concert featured opening sets by The Armed and Phantogram, setting the stage for an electrifying night. Queens of the Stone Age took to the stage to the sound of Peggy Lee’s rendition of Charlie Chaplin’s “Smile,” creating an ironic contrast to the dark themes that dominate their music. From the moment they launched into their first significant single, “No One Knows,” it was clear that the band was firing on all cylinders.

Playing under a pyramid-shaped lighting rig, Queens of the Stone Age delivered tight and explosive performances. The band members appeared audibly and visibly rested after their break and demonstrated a renewed energy and enthusiasm for their music. Homme, who has battled cancer and a difficult child custody dispute since their last tour, was particularly impressive. His between-song comments were filled with gratitude and humor, showing his appreciation for the audience and their presence. He was attuned to both the happenings on stage and in the crowd, making for an engaging and interactive show.

A Memorable Moment

A standout moment came when Homme noticed a fan holding up a sign. Intrigued, he asked for the sign to be brought to the stage and read its heartfelt message. The couple shared that they had used Queens of the Stone Age’s “Make It Wit Chu” as their wedding song. Homme, touched by the dedication and connection, immediately decided to change the setlist and include the song, adding a bit of the Rolling Stones’ “Miss You” for good measure. His playful comment about playing the song at their divorce in ten years added a touch of humor to an otherwise heartfelt moment.

A Diverse Setlist

The rest of the show maintained the same high energy, with the band delivering powerful renditions of their hits and fan favorites. Homme jokingly dismissed the notion of leaving the stage for an encore, emphasizing their commitment to providing a special experience for the audience every night. The band played a selection of songs from their new album, including “Do It Again” and a remarkable rendition of “Better Living Through Chemistry.” This was the first performance of the latter song since 2014, making it a standout moment for longtime fans.

While Homme playfully downplayed their hit songs, tracks like “If I Had a Tail,” “My God is the Sun,” and “Little Sister” were clear crowd pleasers. The band also delivered definitive performances of “Smooth Sailing,” “The Way You Used to Do,” and “I Sat By the Ocean.” The night ended with a dedication to the late singer Mark Lanegan, a frequent collaborator of Queens of the Stone Age, as they performed “God is in the Radio.” The closing couplet of “Go With the Flow” and “A Song For the Dead” left the crowd energized and satisfied.

Editorial and Advice

The opening night of Queens of the Stone Age’s tour was undoubtedly a success. The band proved that they are as formidable and captivating as ever, delivering an exhilarating show that left the audience wanting more. However, for those still planning to attend future tour dates, it is important to note that every night will offer a unique experience. Queens of the Stone Age is known for their willingness to experiment and surprise their fans with different setlists and spontaneous moments.

If you have the opportunity to catch Queens of the Stone Age on their “The End is Nero” tour, I highly recommend seizing it. Their ability to blend heavy rock music with introspective lyrical themes is unparalleled. As they continue their journey across the United States, it’s safe to say that their performances will only get better.

Conclusion

Queens of the Stone Age kicked off their U.S. tour with a blazing performance at the Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre. The band’s seasoned readiness and explosive energy ensured an unforgettable night for the enthusiastic crowd. Fans were treated to a diverse setlist that included new songs and beloved hits, all delivered with precision and passion. Queens of the Stone Age proved that they remain a force to be reckoned with in the rock music scene.