Queens Of The Stone Age ‎– Villains (2 LP)

It’s universally known that Queens of the Stone Age are, almost certainly, the coolest band in the World. Born from the dust of legendary stoner-rock band Kyuss, the Queens obviously know how to rock hard, but they also know how to dance. A sense of playfulness runs through their entire catalogue, and they sure know how to have a good fucking time. Their impact on modern rock music is rather understated given their fine reputation, particularly now as Joshua Homme has made a name for himself as a producer, and not just a badass frontman.

Homme’s songwriting is generally on point, and the album is thoroughly enjoyable in spite of questionable post-production decisions. Villains is probably one of their most consistent works. It opens with intent, striking a sharply salacious groove on “Feet Don’t Fail Me”, which would benefit from hitting that floor even harder. After the nursery rhyme-tinged imagery of “Domesticated Animals”, the group enter uncharted synth territory with “Fortress”, and it actually suits them down to the ground.

When the balance is right, Villains gets very close to be excellent.  “Un-Reborn Again” gets closest to achieving that grotesque-yet-sexy snarl that QotSA are so admired for, and it’s easily one of the best songs on the record.

The album is hardly a classic, but far too fun to be considered a disappointment. There’s a strange sense of sadness in hearing Homme’s devilish charm so constricted, though given the album’s artwork perhaps Ronson’s imprisoning production holds more significance than we first thought.

Label: Matador

Country: Europe

Media Condition: Mint (M)
Sleeve Condition: Mint (M)

Deluxe LP includes 14 limited-edition Boneface art prints, an alternate etching on side 4 of the vinyl. Sealed.