Queens of the Stone Age’s sixth album …Like Clockwork (June 2013) debuted #1 on Billboard 200, won Best Rock Album Grammy nomination, and featured collaborations with Dave Grohl, Trent Reznor, and Elton John—cementing QOTSA’s stoner rock legacy.
Creative Rebirth
Josh Homme wrote album during personal crisis: divorce, depression, near-death surgery. Vulnerability replaced machismo. “I Sat by the Ocean” and “If I Had a Tail” balanced heaviness with melody. Collaborators included Grohl (drums), Reznor (vocals), Elton John (piano).
Commercial Triumph
Debuted #1 on Billboard 200 (91,000 first week), QOTSA’s first chart-topper. Peaked #2 in UK. Certified Gold in US. Singles “My God Is the Sun” and “I Appear Missing” topped Alternative charts.
Critical Acclaim
Metacritic 87 (universal acclaim). Pitchfork gave 8.6/10, praising “mature songwriting.” Rolling Stone called it “career best.” Nominated for Best Rock Album Grammy 2014 (lost to Led Zeppelin’s Celebration Day).
Musical Evolution
Departed from stoner rock rawness (2000s Songs for the Deaf, Era Vulgaris) toward sophisticated arrangements. Homme’s falsetto, orchestral touches, and introspective lyrics showcased growth. Dave Grohl’s drumming added powerhouse energy.
Legacy
Proved desert rock could evolve beyond riffs. Influenced Royal Blood, Highly Suspect, and modern stoner rock. QOTSA’s Elder Statesmen status solidified—Josh Homme’s Desert Sessions and guest work (Iggy Pop, Arctic Monkeys) expanded influence.
Tour Impact: Headlined major festivals (Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, Coachella). 18-month tour grossed $30+ million. “Songs for the Deaf” 10th anniversary shows (2012) preceded album release.
Sources:
- Billboard chart data (June 2013)
- Grammy nominations 2014
- Metacritic reviews
- Official QOTSA website