Queens Of The Stone Age – Villains (Etched Vinyl 2LP)

Villains is the seventh studio album from American rock band Queens of the Stone Age, released in August 2017 through Matador Records. Led by frontman Josh Homme, the band takes its unmistakable desert-rock sound in a more rhythmic, danceable direction, combining muscular guitar riffs, infectious grooves and darkly playful songwriting. Produced by Mark Ronson, Villains balances the raw energy of alternative rock with polished arrangements and unexpected electronic influences.

The album opens with Feet Don't Fail Me, building from atmospheric synthesisers into a thunderous combination of guitars, bass and drums. The Way You Used to Do follows with an irresistible shuffle rhythm, sharp guitar work and Homme's distinctive vocals. One of the album's standout singles, the track captures the band's willingness to experiment without abandoning its heavy rock foundations. Domesticated Animals completes the opening side with a hypnotic groove, layered guitars and an increasingly intense arrangement.

Fortress introduces a more melodic and reflective atmosphere, contrasting the album's harder-edged moments with heartfelt songwriting. Head Like a Haunted House delivers a frantic burst of punk-influenced energy, while Un-Reborn Again stretches into an expansive composition featuring dramatic arrangements and an unmistakable glam-rock influence.

The third side opens with Hideaway, a dark, atmospheric track built around restrained rhythms and electronic textures. The Evil Has Landed is one of the album's heaviest moments, combining intricate guitar riffs, shifting rhythms and explosive instrumental passages. Closing track Villains of Circumstance brings the record to a cinematic conclusion, moving between intimate vocals and powerful orchestral arrangements.

Recorded with the established line-up of Josh Homme, Troy Van Leeuwen, Dean Fertita, Michael Shuman and Jon Theodore, Villains represents a distinctive chapter in the band's catalogue. Mark Ronson's production brings a fresh perspective to their sound, emphasising rhythm, space and groove while retaining the distorted guitars and unpredictable songwriting that have defined Queens of the Stone Age since their earliest releases.

This double-vinyl LP edition presents all nine tracks across three playable sides, with a special etched design on Side D. Pressed on black vinyl and housed in a gatefold sleeve, this Matador Records release offers an excellent way to experience the album's dynamic production and powerful instrumental arrangements.

Supplied brand new and sealed.

Available now from Heathen Records, your independent Australian online record store specialising in new and collectible vinyl.

Details

• Artist: Queens of the Stone Age
• Album: Villains
• Format: Double Vinyl LP (2LP)
• Release Date: 25 August 2017
• Vinyl Colour: Black
• Special Feature: Etched Side D (No Audio)
• Packaging: Gatefold Sleeve
• Genre: Alternative Rock / Hard Rock / Desert Rock
• Record Label: Matador Records
• Catalogue Number: OLE-1125-1
• Barcode: 744861112518
• Tracks: 9
• Condition: Brand new and sealed

Tracklist

Side A

• A1 Feet Don't Fail Me
• A2 The Way You Used to Do
• A3 Domesticated Animals

Side B

• B1 Fortress
• B2 Head Like a Haunted House
• B3 Un-Reborn Again

Side C

• C1 Hideaway
• C2 The Evil Has Landed
• C3 Villains of Circumstance

Side D

• Special etched artwork – no audio