Queens of the Stone Age Announces 2025 ‘Catacombs Tour’: A Unique Musical Journey

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights:
2. Introduction
3. The Inspiration Behind the Catacombs Tour
4. A Look at the Tour Itinerary
5. The Legacy of Queens of the Stone Age
6. The Concert Film: Alive In The Catacombs
7. The Evolution of Performance: A New Era for QOTSA
8. Ticket Sales and Availability
9. The Future of QOTSA
10. FAQ

Key Highlights:

• Intimate Concerts: Queens of the Stone Age will embark on a limited run of intimate shows across the UK and Europe in October 2025, following their unique performance at the Paris Catacombs.
• Innovative Arrangements: The tour will feature new arrangements of the band’s classic songs, incorporating a string section and alternative percussion methods, offering fans a fresh experience.
• Final Show at Royal Albert Hall: The tour will culminate with a highly anticipated performance at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall on October 29.

Introduction

Queens of the Stone Age (QOTSA), the influential rock band fronted by Josh Homme, is set to captivate audiences once again with their 2025 ‘Catacombs Tour’. Following the incredible reception of their unique concert at the Paris Catacombs in July 2023—a performance that was later transformed into a concert film titled Alive In The Catacombs—the band will take this innovative show on the road. This upcoming tour promises not just a revival of their classic hits but a reimagining of them, as the band explores a different sonic landscape that incorporates fresh arrangements and a more intimate concert experience.

The excitement is palpable among fans as QOTSA prepares to bring their music into carefully selected venues across Europe, culminating in a spectacular finale at the Royal Albert Hall. This article delves into the details of the tour, the creative inspirations behind it, and what fans can expect from this remarkable musical journey.

The Inspiration Behind the Catacombs Tour

The genesis of the ‘Catacombs Tour’ can be traced back to an unprecedented performance in one of Paris’s most hauntingly beautiful locations, the Catacombs. This underground burial network, famous for its eerie ambiance and historical significance, served as the backdrop for a stripped-back concert that challenged the traditional concert format. By performing in such an unconventional venue, QOTSA not only showcased their versatility but also evoked a deep emotional connection with their audience.

The concert featured new arrangements of their songs, enriched by the addition of a string section and innovative percussion techniques, diverging from the standard rock ensemble setup. This creative approach reflects the band’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new dimensions of their music. The resulting concert film, Alive In The Catacombs, has been described as immersive and meditative, allowing viewers to transcend the ordinary and experience the music in a profoundly unique setting.

A Look at the Tour Itinerary

The 2025 ‘Catacombs Tour’ is set to commence on October 18 in Milan, Italy, and will weave through several notable cities in Europe, including Berlin, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Antwerp, and London. Each venue has been carefully selected to enhance the intimate nature of the show, ensuring that fans can enjoy the unique arrangements in settings that complement the music’s atmosphere.

Tour Schedule:

• October 18: Milan, IT – Teatro Lirico Giorgio Gaber
• October 23: Berlin, DE – Theater des Westens
• October 24: Copenhagen, DK – DR Koncerthuset, Koncertsalen
• October 26: Amsterdam, NL – Royal Theater Carré
• October 27: Antwerp, BE – Queen Elisabeth Hall
• October 29: London, UK – Royal Albert Hall

The final show at London’s Royal Albert Hall is particularly significant, given the venue's storied history and its status as one of the premier concert halls in the world. This closing performance is expected to be a grand celebration, showcasing the culmination of the tour’s artistic exploration.

The Legacy of Queens of the Stone Age

Since their formation in 1996, QOTSA has carved out a significant niche in the rock genre, melding elements of stoner rock, alternative rock, and hard rock. The band has always been known for their innovative sound and willingness to experiment, which has allowed them to maintain relevance in a constantly evolving musical landscape.

Frontman Josh Homme’s distinctive voice and guitar work, combined with the band’s eclectic influences, have produced a discography that includes critically acclaimed albums like Songs for the Deaf, Lullabies to Paralyze, and …Like Clockwork. QOTSA's ability to reinvent their sound while staying true to their roots has earned them a loyal fanbase and respect within the music industry.

The ‘Catacombs Tour’ builds on this legacy, inviting fans to experience the band’s music in a new light. The concert at the Paris Catacombs proved that QOTSA could adapt their performances to suit unique environments, further solidifying their reputation as one of rock’s most innovative bands.

The Concert Film: Alive In The Catacombs

The performance at the Catacombs was not just a concert; it was an experience that was beautifully captured in the film Alive In The Catacombs. Directed by Thomas Rame and produced by Blogothèque, the film has garnered praise for its artistry and immersive quality. Critics have noted that the film offers viewers an experience akin to navigating the very tunnels of the Catacombs themselves, with the music echoing against the ancient walls.

The film's four-star review from NME highlighted its stark beauty, emphasizing how the haunting atmosphere of the Catacombs enhances the emotional depth of the performance. The juxtaposition of music and the historical significance of the location creates a unique viewing experience that resonates with both fans and newcomers alike.

The Evolution of Performance: A New Era for QOTSA

As the ‘Catacombs Tour’ approaches, it signifies not only a continuation of QOTSA's rich legacy but also an evolution in how live music is presented. The integration of different musical arrangements and instrumentation reflects a broader trend in the industry where artists are increasingly seeking novel ways to engage their audiences.

This tour serves as a reminder that live music is not just about the songs themselves but the entire experience surrounding them. By choosing intimate venues and reworking their material, QOTSA is setting a precedent for how concerts can be transformed into multi-dimensional experiences—allowing fans to connect on a deeper level with the music and the band.

Ticket Sales and Availability

Tickets for the ‘Catacombs Tour’ will go on general sale on July 18 at 10 a.m. local time. Given the limited nature of these shows, fans are encouraged to act quickly to secure their seats for what promises to be an extraordinary series of performances.

For those interested in attending the final show at the Royal Albert Hall, tickets can be purchased through various platforms, including Ticketmaster, where fans can also find additional details about the complete tour schedule.

The Future of QOTSA

Beyond the Catacombs Tour, Josh Homme has hinted at potential future projects, including the possibility of a Kyuss reunion. As fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead, the band’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of their music remains clear.

With Homme’s recent return to the stage after undergoing emergency surgery and his involvement in various musical tributes, it appears that QOTSA will continue to be a dynamic force in the rock scene. The upcoming tour not only highlights their past achievements but also sets the stage for future innovations.

FAQ

Q: What is the Catacombs Tour? A: The Catacombs Tour is a series of intimate concerts by Queens of the Stone Age, inspired by their unique performance at the Paris Catacombs in July 2023.

Q: When does the tour start and end? A: The tour begins on October 18, 2025, in Milan and concludes with a final performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London on October 29, 2025.

Q: Will the concert feature new arrangements of songs? A: Yes, the tour will showcase brand-new arrangements of QOTSA’s songs, including the addition of a string section and alternative percussion techniques.

Q: How can I purchase tickets for the tour? A: Tickets will be available for general sale on July 18, 2025. Fans can purchase tickets through platforms like Ticketmaster.

Q: Is there a concert film related to the Catacombs performance? A: Yes, the performance at the Catacombs was transformed into a concert film titled Alive In The Catacombs, which captures the unique atmosphere and musical arrangements of the show.

Q: What can fans expect from the Royal Albert Hall performance? A: The final performance at the Royal Albert Hall is expected to be a grand celebration, showcasing the culmination of the tour's artistic exploration and offering an unforgettable experience for attendees.

As Queens of the Stone Age prepares for the ‘Catacombs Tour’, it promises to be not only a celebration of their music but also a testament to their innovative spirit and enduring legacy in the world of rock.