Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.comQueens of the Stone Age is the definition of modern, dangerous rock-'n'-roll. Led by the tall, red-haired desert rocker Josh Homme, the band created a unique sound they call "robot rock": repetitive, hypnotic riffs with a heavy groove.
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Their music sounds like a night drive through the California desert: sexy, intoxicating and always with a menacing undertone. Homme's falsetto and the tight rhythm section provide a swing that's as hard as it is danceable.
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No One Knows
The undisputed classic, aided by the phenomenal drumming of Dave Grohl. The swing in this song is unmatched; it's heavy and sluggish, but also bounces at the same time.nnThe guitar riff might be the most recognizable of the 21st century. The dry production ensures each instrument hits directly. The middle section with the polka rhythms is brilliantly absurd. In the Top 2000, this is the monument of modern rock.
Go With the Flow
A song that feels like driving 200 kilometers per hour on an empty highway at night. The piano hammers constantly on the same chords, providing enormous drive.nnThe video in black-white-red is iconic, but the music is too. It's tight, mechanical and euphoric. "I want something good to die for." An anthem of pure adrenaline and speed.
Make It Wit Chu
The ultimate seduction plate. The tempo is low, the groove is sultry and slow. It sounds like a warm summer night where everything is possible. The piano gives it a bluesy bar atmosphere.nnHomme sings here at his lowest and softest. The guitar solo is melodic and tasteful, without embellishment. It's the sexiest song from their oeuvre, pure eroticism put to music.
The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret
The breakthrough single from their second album Rated R. The vibe is paranoia and mystery. The vibraphone in the background gives it a unique, spy-movie-like feel.nnThe chorus is hypnotic and repetitive. It sounds dangerous and sexy at the same time, like a secret you shouldn't know but want to hear anyway.
Little Sister
Inspired by the style of Elvis, but sent through the meat grinder. The guitar riff is angular and staccato, repeated throughout the song without getting bored. The cowbell is essential here.nnThe guitar solo is one of pure chaos and dissonance. The song doesn't stop anywhere; it's a train that thunders on. Tight, fierce and impossible to stand still to.
I Sat by the Ocean
A relatively airy song with an almost "bouncy" guitar riff. It's about trying to forget an old love by drinking on the coast. The melody is surprisingly soulful.nnThe contrast between the sad lyrics and the upbeat music works perfectly. Homme's slide guitar moans softly in the background. A fan favorite for the perfect pop structure in a rock jacket.
My God Is the Sun
A song that sounds like a sandstorm. The drums are wild and tribal, and the guitars create a wall of sound. It marked the band's return after a difficult period for Homme.nnThe atmosphere is mystical and apocalyptic. The song tears onward, without a break, and ends in an abrupt silence. Desert rock in its purest form.
3's & 7's
A classic QOTSA stamper. The guitars tear and squeal, and the bass line rattles beautifully. The song has that typical, nonchalant "cool" that the band has a patent on.nnThe melody is catchy, but the instrumentation stays rough. It sounds like the band is standing in a garage playing, but with the precision of an oiled machine.
In My Head
Originally recorded for the Desert Sessions, but perfected on the album Lullabies to Paralyze. It's one of their most radio-friendly songs, with a chorus that sticks directly in your memory.nnThe riff is driving and energetic. The lyrics are about obsessive love ("I need you in my head"), and the music reflects that constant, grinding thought.
The Way You Used to Do
A track produced by Mark Ronson, resulting in a tight, almost swing-like rock song. The guitar riff sounds dry and pointed, and the rhythm invites dancing.nnHomme sounds here like a rockabilly crooner from the future. It's less heavy than their old work, but bursting with arrogance and style. A song that polarized, but proves irresistible live.
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