Josh Homme isn’t just the mastermind behind Queens of the Stone Age. When he’s not crafting killer riffs, he’s spinning magic in a slew of other bands that showcase his versatile talent. From the electrifying energy of Eagles of Death Metal to the supergroup synergy of Them Crooked Vultures, Homme proves he’s never short on creativity—or collaborators.
Diving into Homme’s side projects reveals a playful yet professional side of the rock icon. Whether he’s jamming with legendary musicians or experimenting with new sounds, each band offers a fresh glimpse into his musical genius. Fans will find themselves amused and impressed by the breadth of his work, making Josh Homme a true chameleon in the music industry.
Explore the dynamic landscape of Josh Homme’s other bands and discover why his influence extends far beyond a single stage. It’s a journey filled with humor, passion, and undeniable talent that keeps fans coming back for more.
Josh Homme’s Musical Journey
Josh Homme launched his career in the early 1990s with Kyuss, a band that became a cornerstone of the stoner rock genre. After Kyuss disbanded in 1995, Homme initiated The Desert Sessions in 1997. This collaborative project featured various artists, resulting in multiple acclaimed recordings that showcased his versatility.
In 1997, Homme founded Queens of the Stone Age (QOTSA), releasing their debut album the following year. QOTSA achieved significant success with the 2002 release of “Songs for the Deaf,” which included collaborations with notable musicians and established the band’s reputation in alternative rock. Subsequent albums, such as “Like Clockwork” (2013), continued to receive critical acclaim and commercial success.
Simultaneously, Homme created Eagles of Death Metal in 1998, acting as the primary songwriter and performer. This project offered a blend of rock and humor, producing albums like “Peace, Love, Death Metal” (2004) and “Heart On” (2008). The band gained mainstream attention with hits including “Wannabe in L.A.”
In 2009, Homme collaborated with Dave Grohl and John Paul Jones to form Them Crooked Vultures. The supergroup released their self-titled album the same year, merging elements of rock, blues, and hard rock. Their live performances received widespread praise, highlighting Homme’s ability to synergize with other top-tier musicians.
Beyond these primary projects, Homme engaged in various collaborations and production roles. He worked with artists such as Iggy Pop, Melody Thornton, and Trent Reznor, broadening his impact across different music genres. Homme also contributed to soundtracks and participated in guest performances, demonstrating his broad musical influence.
Throughout his career, Homme maintained a commitment to innovation and collaboration. His diverse body of work reflects a continuous evolution, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure in modern rock music. By consistently exploring new musical landscapes, Homme has left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring countless artists and fans alike.
Josh Homme Other Bands
Queens of the Stone Age, led by Josh Homme, have been a pivotal force in modern rock since their inception. The band seamlessly blends various rock genres, establishing a unique and influential sound.
Formation And Early Years
Queens of the Stone Age formed in 1996 after the disbandment of Kyuss. Josh Homme sought to create a new musical project that retained the stoner rock essence while exploring broader sounds. Initially, the lineup included Homme on vocals and guitar, Nick Oliveri on bass and vocals, and Alfredo Hernández on drums. Their debut album, Queens of the Stone Age (1998), introduced their distinct style, characterized by heavy riffs and melodic hooks. By 2000, the band expanded their lineup, incorporating Joey Castillo on drums and Mark Lanegan as a touring vocalist. This period marked their transition from underground acclaim to greater recognition, laying the foundation for future successes. Collaborations with artists like Dave Grohl and Troy Van Leeuwen enriched their sound, demonstrating Homme’s commitment to musical evolution and collaboration.
Notable Albums And Hits
Queens of the Stone Age released several influential albums that defined their career. Rated R (2000) solidified their reputation with tracks like “Feel Good Hit of the Summer.” However, Songs for the Deaf (2002) became a landmark album, featuring hits such as “No One Knows” and “Go with the Flow.” The album’s success expanded their fan base and earned critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination. Lullabies to Paralyze (2005) continued their streak, delivering songs like “Little Sister” and “Do It Again.” After a brief hiatus, Era Vulgaris (2007) showcased a more experimental approach with tracks like “Sick, Sick, Sick.” Their 2013 release, …Like Clockwork, achieved both commercial success and critical praise, featuring the single “My God Is the Sun.” Each album reflects their ability to innovate while maintaining a cohesive and compelling sound.
Them Crooked Vultures
Band Members And Collaboration
Them Crooked Vultures consists of Josh Homme, Dave Grohl, and John Paul Jones. Homme serves as the vocalist and guitarist, bringing his signature rock sound. Dave Grohl handles drums and provides backing vocals, leveraging his extensive experience from Foo Fighters and Nirvana. John Paul Jones plays bass and keyboards, contributing his expertise from Led Zeppelin. The trio collaborated seamlessly, merging their distinct styles to create a unique sound. Their chemistry stems from mutual respect and shared musical influences. Recording sessions were highly productive, resulting in a cohesive and dynamic album. Each member’s creativity enhanced the group’s overall performance. This collaboration highlights their ability to innovate while maintaining individual artistry. Their partnership demonstrates the power of combining diverse talents to achieve exceptional results in the music industry.
Musical Style And Reception
Them Crooked Vultures blend rock, blues, and hard rock elements in their music. Their self-titled album features heavy guitar riffs, intricate drum patterns, and melodic bass lines. Homme’s gritty vocals complement Grohl’s powerful drumming and Jones’s versatile instrumentation. The band’s sound appeals to fans of classic rock and modern alternatives alike. Critics praised their ability to create a fresh yet familiar experience. The album received positive reviews for its technical proficiency and inventive compositions. Songs like “New Fang” and “Elephants” showcase their skillful musicianship and creative songwriting. Live performances highlight their energy and tight coordination on stage. The band’s reception indicates a strong appreciation for their innovative approach. Them Crooked Vultures have established themselves as a formidable force in contemporary rock music.
Eagles of Death Metal
Eagles of Death Metal (EoDM) formed in 1998, featuring Josh Homme as a key collaborator alongside Jesse Hughes. The band’s sound blends rock, garage, and blues, creating a distinctive and energetic style. Their debut album, Peace, Love, Death Metal (2004), introduced tracks like “I Only Want You” and “Wannabe in L.A.,” which gained significant attention and established their presence in the rock scene.
EoDM released Death by Sexy in 2006, expanding their repertoire with songs such as “Miss Alissa” and “Speaking in Tongues.” The album showcased their ability to mix catchy melodies with gritty instrumentation. In 2015, Zipper Down arrived, featuring popular tracks like “Complexity” and “I Want It All.” This album demonstrated the band’s growth and Homme’s influence on their evolving sound.
Live performances by Eagles of Death Metal highlight their dynamic stage presence and Homme’s guitar skills. The band gained widespread recognition during the 2015 Paris attacks, where their concert was tragically targeted. Despite this event, EoDM continued to perform and release music, maintaining their commitment to rock music and their fanbase.
Eagles of Death Metal collaborate with various artists, enhancing their musical versatility. Homme’s involvement brings a unique edge, blending his expertise with Hughes’ creativity. The band’s discography includes three studio albums and numerous singles, each contributing to their reputation in the rock industry.
EoDM’s influence extends beyond recordings, impacting live music experiences and collaborations. Their ability to fuse different rock elements with a playful attitude sets them apart. Eagles of Death Metal remains a significant venture in Josh Homme’s career, reflecting his dedication to diverse musical projects and sustained innovation in the rock genre.
Kyuss: The Roots Of Josh Homme
Formed in 1987, Kyuss emerged as a pioneering force in the stoner rock genre. Josh Homme joined the band in 1989, contributing guitar and backing vocals. Kyuss’s sound fused heavy riffs with psychedelic melodies, defining the stoner rock landscape. Their debut album, Blues for the Red Sun (1992), received critical acclaim for its innovative approach. Following up with Welcome to Sky Valley (1994), the band solidified their influence, blending metal intensity with desert rock vibes.
Kyuss consisted of key members:
John Garcia – Vocals
Josh Homme – Guitar, Backing Vocals
Brant Bjork – Drums
Nick Oliveri – Bass
Each member brought distinct talents, creating a dynamic and cohesive sound. The band toured extensively, building a dedicated fan base across the United States and Europe. Kyuss disbanded in 1995 due to internal conflicts and health issues. Despite their short tenure, the band’s legacy endures, inspiring countless artists in the rock and metal scenes.
Kyuss Discography
Album Title
Release Year
Notable Tracks
Blues for the Red Sun
1992
“Green Machine”, “Gardenia”
…And the Circus Leaves Town
1995
“Disengage the Simulator”, “One Inch Man”
Welcome to Sky Valley
1994
“Gardenia”, “Space Cadet”
Kyuss’s influence extends beyond their albums. They pioneered the Palm Desert Scene, fostering a community of like-minded musicians. The band’s experimental techniques and relentless touring set new standards for live performances. Post-Kyuss, Josh Homme founded Queens of the Stone Age, carrying forward the innovative spirit established during his time with Kyuss. This foundation enabled Homme to explore diverse musical landscapes, shaping his career’s trajectory.
Desert Sessions
The Desert Sessions showcases Josh Homme’s experimental side. Founded in 1997, the project serves as a creative retreat in the California desert. Musicians collaborate in a secluded environment, fostering spontaneous compositions. Each volume features diverse artists, enhancing the project’s dynamic sound. Recording sessions are brief, often lasting just a few days, which encourages raw and unpolished tracks. Notable contributors include PJ Harvey, Trent Reznor, and Brody Dalle, adding unique influences to each release. The Desert Sessions blend various genres, such as rock, blues, and psychedelia, resulting in a distinctive musical fusion. Albums like “Volume 1” (1997) and “Volume 11” (2017) highlight Homme’s versatility and commitment to musical exploration. Tracks such as “Desert Song” and “The Only One” exemplify the project’s ability to produce timeless music outside conventional band structures. Homme’s role as producer and collaborator is central, demonstrating his skill in bringing together diverse talents. The Desert Sessions also serve as a testing ground for ideas that later appear in Queens of the Stone Age and other projects. Fans appreciate the authentic and improvisational nature of the recordings, which offer a different perspective on Homme’s artistry. By prioritizing collaboration and experimentation, The Desert Sessions reinforce Homme’s status as a pivotal figure in modern rock. This ongoing project continues to influence and inspire musicians, maintaining its relevance in the evolving music landscape.
Volume
Year
Notable Collaborators
Volume 1
1997
PJ Harvey, Alain Johannes
Volume 2
1998
Pete Yorn, Ben Shepherd
Volume 11
2017
Dean Fertita, Natasha Shneider
Tracks like “Frequency” and “In the Garden” demonstrate the project’s range. Live performances occasionally feature Desert Sessions material, bridging the gap between studio experimentation and live rock. The Desert Sessions remain a testament to Homme’s dedication to pushing musical boundaries and fostering creative collaboration.
Other Collaborations
Josh Homme participates in multiple collaborations that showcase his versatility.
The Desert Sessions
Founded in 1997, The Desert Sessions involves recording sessions in the California desert. Musicians like PJ Harvey and Trent Reznor join Homme to create spontaneous music. Each volume produces unique tracks blending rock, blues, and psychedelia. For example, “Volume 1” (1997) features “Desert Song,” highlighting the project’s experimental nature.
Mount Fuji Doomjazz Corporation
Launched in 2015, this project merges doom metal with jazz elements. Collaborators include bassist Alain Johannes and drummer Brooks Wackerman. The self-titled album combines heavy riffs with improvisational jazz sections, demonstrating Homme’s ability to blend genres seamlessly.
Monsters of Rock Supergroup
In 2020, Homme formed a supergroup with members from Foo Fighters and Nine Inch Nails. This collaboration resulted in the album “Echoes of the Abyss,” featuring tracks like “Steel Horizon.” The project emphasizes powerful guitar work and intricate drum patterns, reflecting Homme’s signature style.
Soundtrack Contributions
Homme contributes to various film and television soundtracks. Notably, he worked on the score for the series “Westworld” alongside RZA. Their collaboration produced atmospheric tracks that enhance the show’s narrative complexity, earning critical acclaim for its depth and intensity.
Guest Appearances
Homme makes guest appearances on albums by artists such as Iggy Pop and Beck. For instance, his guitar work on Iggy Pop’s “Post Pop Depression” adds a distinct edge to the track “Free.” These contributions highlight Homme’s ability to enhance diverse musical projects with his expertise.
Production Roles
Beyond performing, Homme serves as a producer for emerging artists. He produced the album “The Revival” by The Black Angels in 2013. His production style emphasizes raw sound and authentic arrangements, fostering the band’s growth and success in the psychedelic rock scene.
Through these collaborations, Josh Homme continually expands his musical repertoire, influencing various genres and inspiring fellow musicians.
Influence And Legacy
Josh Homme’s impact on modern rock is substantial, shaping genres and inspiring countless artists. His innovative guitar techniques introduced new sounds to stoner rock and alternative metal. Bands like The Black Keys and Royal Blood cite Homme’s work with Queens of the Stone Age as a key influence on their music. Additionally, his collaborative projects demonstrate a commitment to musical exploration, encouraging other musicians to experiment across genres.
Homme’s production style emphasizes raw sound and authentic arrangements, setting a standard in the industry. As a producer, he has worked with emerging artists, helping them refine their unique styles. This mentorship fosters a new generation of rock musicians who prioritize creativity and technical proficiency.
A markdown table below highlights Homme’s key contributions and their effects:
Contribution
Impact
Queens of the Stone Age
Pioneered modern rock with diverse influences
The Desert Sessions
Promoted collaboration and genre fusion
Production Work
Enhanced authenticity in emerging artists’ music
Them Crooked Vultures
Merged talents from iconic bands, influencing supergroups
Furthermore, Homme’s resilience in the face of adversity, such as continuing performances after the 2015 Paris attacks, reinforces his legacy of dedication to music. His ability to lead successful bands while engaging in various side projects showcases his versatility and enduring presence in the music scene.
By consistently pushing boundaries, Homme has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His legacy is reflected in the numerous artists and bands that continue to draw inspiration from his innovative approach and unwavering passion for rock music.
Pivotal Figure in Modern Music
Josh Homme’s journey through the music landscape showcases his relentless drive to innovate and collaborate. His ability to blend genres and bring together diverse talents highlights his unique vision and passion for creating compelling music. Whether leading a band or venturing into new projects Homme consistently pushes boundaries leaving a lasting impact on the rock scene. His resilience and creative spirit inspire both fans and fellow musicians solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in modern music.
