...Like Clockwork
by Queens of the Stone Age
  • Record Label: Matador
  • Release Date: Jun 4, 2013
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 447 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 401 out of 447
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 447
  3. Negative: 33 out of 447
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. Ricko
    Jun 12, 2014
    8
    Back to their best
    For the first time in about a decade a QOTSA record has gotten me properly excited. Like Clockwork starts a tad unsure of itself with "Keep You Eyes Peeled", a track you could hardly say demands your attention and a curious way to begin proceedings. It represents the only questionable track on the album. From here on in we are treated to diamond after diamond.
    Like    Back to their best
    For the first time in about a decade a QOTSA record has gotten me properly excited. Like Clockwork starts a tad unsure of itself with "Keep You Eyes Peeled", a track you could hardly say demands your attention and a curious way to begin proceedings. It represents the only questionable track on the album. From here on in we are treated to diamond after diamond.
    Like Clockwork gets better as it progresses on and I would argue that the record peaks in the middle with the amazing trilogy of If I Had a Tail, My God Is the Sun and Kalopsia. My God Is the Sun has that classic QOTSA sound and is representative of the overall record with the band back to their best, delivering what they failed to truly produce on their last couple of albums. This sequence of blockbuster rockers is complete with Kalopsia and while I think this is where the album hits its peak, that's not to say things really dip from here. It's all relative and Like Clockwork maintains the intensity to the literal death. Excellent stuff.    … Expand
  2. Andremax
    Jul 12, 2018
    9
    The most melodic band's album. Brings again a killer cast to play with Homme (Old band members,to be exact). Songs are memorable and has something epic in it.
  3. adhamhany
    Jan 8, 2014
    8
    Great rock music. I haven't listened to any of their albums before this. I'm an idiot, i know. I'm looking forward to rectify that mistake. I do hope their older work has the same blend of loud and calm.
  4. Mab_987
    Nov 29, 2013
    9
    This is the first QOTSA album I've heard in full & it's a fantastic first impression that lives up to the hype. If I had to describe this album in one word, it would be “cool”. Every aspect, from the guitar riffs to the grooves to Josh Homme's voice & delivery, has this attitude-filled charm to it that's just irresistible. I think a track-by-track analysis is the best way I can talk aboutThis is the first QOTSA album I've heard in full & it's a fantastic first impression that lives up to the hype. If I had to describe this album in one word, it would be “cool”. Every aspect, from the guitar riffs to the grooves to Josh Homme's voice & delivery, has this attitude-filled charm to it that's just irresistible. I think a track-by-track analysis is the best way I can talk about this album, since it's really one where pretty much every song has something worth noting about it.

    I hear the term “desert rock” thrown around a lot with this band, and I find that sound no more accurate on this album than in the opener “Keep Your Eyes Peeled”. It has this trudging rhythmic groove that basically sounds like being stuck in Death Valley for over 3 hours with no water or transportation, a vibe that's enhanced by the vague but moody lyrics. “I Sat by the Ocean” is a great straightforward rock song with simple, catchy riffs & nice touches of falsetto. I've heard from some people that this is one of QOTSA's more diverse albums, and with songs like “The Vampyre of Time and Memory” that's very easy to believe. It's a piano-led track that builds beautifully over the course of it, first with these cool little synth textures & then gradually the rock instrumentation. The lyrics are also some of the best on the album, talking about loss of identity & searching for your purpose in life in a pretty effective way. My favorite song here is “If I Had a Tail”, another fantastic mid-tempo alt-rock tune with infectious melodies all around & nicely reserved guitars in the verses that explode perfectly in the chorus & bridge, complimented with a good lyrical theme bashing general society's materialist/hedonist mentality. The first half finishes with “My God is the Sun”, which was a great choice for the lead single, a driving rocker that grabs you with the riffs within seconds & will definitely attract the demographic I was in who's only familiar with the older hits.

    “Kalopsia” goes in a refreshingly laid-back direction with a nice psychedelic atmosphere in the verses that transitions smoothly into more of a hard rock style toward the end. “Fairweather Friends” is another major highlight. Nearly all of this album's many collaborators sing backing vocals on this song. Admittedly though, my only thing close to a gripe on this album is that I would've liked if such a star-studded guest list had a bigger role than barely audible contributions you probably wouldn't notice if you didn't hear about it from somewhere else. Elton John is the exception, since he plays piano here too & his backing vocals provide a nice echo in the chorus, but still. That being said, the song's still really great, and ends on a random & hilarious note that I still crack up at on the 6th listen. “Smooth Sailing” has an awesomely sleazy groove with over-the-top flamboyant falsetto vocals & some awesome lines. “I Appear Missing” is another really good one but honestly doesn't have many traits I haven't already talked about as far as I can tell. The album ends with the title track, which takes another drastic turn as a vulnerable piano ballad that follows the same introspective lyrical style as “The Vampyre of Time and Memory”, though to me it's done in a more emotional way here.

    ...Like Clockwork consistently shows off memorable, well-thought-out & surprisingly diverse material. Normally albums that get as much hype as this got disappoint at least some people, but I've honestly heard few, if any, negative thoughts about it as a whole. I'll make it a goal to listen to some more QOTSA in the near future.

    Top 5 tracks: If I Had a Tail, Fairweather Friends, The Vampyre of Time and Memory, I Sat by the Ocean, Smooth Sailing
    Score: 91/100
    My review-based Facebook page: That Non-Elitist Music Fan    … Expand
  5. nirvanafreak
    Aug 11, 2015
    10
    In my opinion this is their best album (just ahead of Rated R). I don't see how people didn't like this theres so many catchy riffs, great vocals, amazing features, etc. I think they're gonna find it difficult to follow this up.
  6. MooziikMaster
    Jun 4, 2013
    10
    The genre-bending, rule breaking band of misfits is back and bigger than ever. With a 6 year gap between their last album Era Vulgaris, a new Queens of the Stone Age album was at the top of my wish list. They didn't disappoint either! Every track comes at you in full swing. They entrance, mystify, disturb, and even stimulate you. With ...Like Clockwork, Queens of the Stone Age bring aThe genre-bending, rule breaking band of misfits is back and bigger than ever. With a 6 year gap between their last album Era Vulgaris, a new Queens of the Stone Age album was at the top of my wish list. They didn't disappoint either! Every track comes at you in full swing. They entrance, mystify, disturb, and even stimulate you. With ...Like Clockwork, Queens of the Stone Age bring a splash of reality to what real rock music is. No more of this garbage Nickelback and Mariana's Trench.

    From the first riff, I know that this would be a special occurrence. As I proceeded, weaving between simplicity and complexity, I realized that I was in a psychedelic heaven. With no detectable flaws, this album provides the perfect blend of psychedelic rock and metal. "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is the ultimate opener for the album. It starts out quiet, like the calm before the storm, and then suddenly, you are whisked away by the heart-pounding thuds of drums and bass. After this dreary and oddly hypnotic first track, "I Sat By The Ocean" shows off the radio-friendly capabilities of QOTSA. After all these years, they can still put together an upbeat, soon to be on the radio song. Slowing down the tempo again, the band returns you to where they left off in the trippy journey. In a Pink Floyd-esque fashion, QOTSA take the opportunity to explore the ways of synthetics in "The Vampyre of Time and Memory". Alongside brain-melting guitar solos is the light whir of a synthesizer. The next two tracks, "If I Had A Tail" and "My God Is The Sun", are both songs more than qualified to be radio hits in no time. With comedic lyrics and strange themes, this obscure duo goes together better than peanut butter and jelly. As we venture into the second half of the album, it's as if there is a darkness that has filled the songs. On "Kalopsia", Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails helps out the gang by providing his magnificent voice and musical talent to create (what may be) QOTSA's darkest odysseys. Continuing with the dark trend, "Fairweather Friends" and "Smooth Sailing" sound upbeat enough, but still have and eerie undertone. The songs make you feel a plethora of emotions all at once. All you can do is sit there, wondering what the hell is going on. It sounds like they're having a good time, but at the same time, it sounds like the world is about to end. On "I Appear Missing", the album's magnum opus, the spellbinding guitar melodies combined with Josh Homme's unique vocals are what really take the cake. Finally, on "...Like Clockwork", QOTSA leave with a calming acoustic song, accompanied by piano and echoes of bass. They know that the album is over. They know that this fictional world is coming to an end. All they can do now is reassure the audience that everything will be alright. Or maybe the opposite.

    From start to finish, the album blew me away. Each track offered something different and unique. Also, I believe that this album has some of the most creative and well-written lyrics of all time. The messages are well established and the execution by Josh Homme is the icing on the cake.

    Overall, the album is flawless. I have listened to it numerous times and find nothing wrong with it. Beautiful lyrics, catchy rhythms, and addictive vocals; what more could you want?    … Expand
  7. raviopatra
    Nov 17, 2013
    7
    I'm not really a big fan of the band, but this album is solid; as expected from a band as prolific as them. "My God Is the Sun" has this unique sound that makes me want to repeat it over and over again.
  8. mchlkirk77
    Nov 15, 2013
    10
    Love this cd just like Arctic Monkey's AM, I was happy to enjoy a few pure rock cd releases this year. This cd hooked me from the start and I enjoyed every track. Love that they are from Palm Desert as well, since I am also a desert dweller, not too far away from them, in Las Vegas!
  9. ReubenIsAGod
    Oct 19, 2013
    9
    Best queens album in years, yes i enjoyed El Vagus or what ever its called but this new entire just feels so unique and the tracks are so moody, 9/10, gets a bit repetitive yet because of key tracks, my fav track being the last it deserves more like a Solid 9.8/10, so should probably round to a 10 but because of the repetitiveness and the fact that users are rating so high i gives it a 9
  10. exodus9237
    Sep 9, 2014
    10
    Brilliant. The best album of 2013. It is Josh Homme pulling out his best moves, and creating a vivid example of musicianship and pure rock. Queens of the Stone Age (more powerful than ever), and a great group of collaborators (from best friend Dave Grohl to the one and only Sir Elton John), prove that rock is not only not dead, is more alive than ever. Is an album that combines a greatBrilliant. The best album of 2013. It is Josh Homme pulling out his best moves, and creating a vivid example of musicianship and pure rock. Queens of the Stone Age (more powerful than ever), and a great group of collaborators (from best friend Dave Grohl to the one and only Sir Elton John), prove that rock is not only not dead, is more alive than ever. Is an album that combines a great production with a strong variety of sounds and thoughts that at times you can't believe it's the guys that created songs like Song for the Dead or Go With The Flow. Of course we don't lose the feeling that's Josh Homme and company, it has a strange remembrance of Rated R, and with songs like Keep Your Eyes Peeled and My God is The Sun, you know it's the hard-rockers we love. I Appear Missing is just pure glory.

    Is arguably Queens best work (Song for The Deaf is hard to beat, and Rated R is just excellent), but it is a very very good album, that by the time you reach ...Like Clockwork (a beautiful melody by the way, the least "Queens" song in the album), you are left only wanting for more.    … Expand
  11. forestville
    Jun 23, 2013
    10
    I'm not very good fan of Queens of the Stone Age because the only album that I liked most was "Lullabies to Paralyze", and that my brother showed me what was our favorite, but for me, this album has increased my taste for this band. Like Clockwork, an album that takes everything the band has done, mix it with some pop and again with a lot of guests that give another twist to the band'sI'm not very good fan of Queens of the Stone Age because the only album that I liked most was "Lullabies to Paralyze", and that my brother showed me what was our favorite, but for me, this album has increased my taste for this band. Like Clockwork, an album that takes everything the band has done, mix it with some pop and again with a lot of guests that give another twist to the band's music without changing their style.
    As guests are the former Queens, Dave Grohl, Nick Oliveri and Mark Lanegan. Then there is Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys, Trent Reznor, Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters and surprise to me, Elton John.
    The album starts with "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" low hypnotic hard rock. "I Sat by the Ocean" still sounds like Queens of the Stone Age in his role not as heavy songs. Next is "The Vampyre of Time and Memory" has been the ones I liked the album, shows the evolution of the draft Homme And to continue another shifty, "If I Had a Tail", a good song.
    "My God Is the Sun", in the vein of the last deliveries of the group. The most experimental song is "Kalopsia" where Trent Reznor collaborates who also appears in "Fairweather Friends" with Elton John, which make it a true masterpiece, as Jonah said. "Smooth Sailing" and "I Appear Missing" round out the album with my favorite, Like Clockwork a ballad very high manufacturing.
    You may not love it so much, but anger discovering such high quality that have the songs from this album.
    With this album, it is now difficult to say which came to make the best of the year, do not think is this, because I still like more "RAM" by Daft Punk, but definitely, this will be on the list.    … Expand
  12. Forest90
    Sep 14, 2013
    7
    You can tell Homme's time with Them Crooked Vultures has had an influence on this album, with a larger presence of slow ballads and stripped down, slow-paced rock music than ever before on a QOTSA record. Lyrically it explores the dark times Josh had after his routine knee surgery didn't go to plan, and is probably the humblest-sounding QOTSA record yet as a result. There are still plentyYou can tell Homme's time with Them Crooked Vultures has had an influence on this album, with a larger presence of slow ballads and stripped down, slow-paced rock music than ever before on a QOTSA record. Lyrically it explores the dark times Josh had after his routine knee surgery didn't go to plan, and is probably the humblest-sounding QOTSA record yet as a result. There are still plenty of riffs and more typical Queens songs such as I Sat By the Ocean, and Smooth Sailing with it's funky dance sensibility and crunching riff could easily have come off of Era Vulgaris. The only thing lacking is that QOTSA swagger and weirdness that we have loved for over a decade.… Expand
  13. Derezzination
    Jul 4, 2013
    9
    Queens of the Stone Age with ...Like Clockwork blows us out of the water. It is a combination of all of their previous records in one, yet still retaining a distinct sound. It feels like the correct natural progression, it doesn't feel forced. And with guest appearances from Nick Olivier and Mark Lanegan, albeit on backing vocals, there is still that old Queens vibe.

    Opener, "Keep Your    Queens of the Stone Age with ...Like Clockwork blows us out of the water. It is a combination of all of their previous records in one, yet still retaining a distinct sound. It feels like the correct natural progression, it doesn't feel forced. And with guest appearances from Nick Olivier and Mark Lanegan, albeit on backing vocals, there is still that old Queens vibe.

    Opener, "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" has a meaty bass line and Joey Castillo's solid drumming that featured on the last two albums keeps the song going, and I think that Dave Grohl's drumming does hold more energy, but I think they can both play drums for Queens well, they both bring something different to the band's overall sound.

    "The Vampyre of Time and Money", is the the first of the slower songs on the album. The band have done it before with "Make it Wit Chu", but these seem more emotional. Rated R featured slower songs breaking the album up nicely from the energy of such songs like "Quick and to the Pointless" and with these ballads, I feel like the band are doing the same thing. "The Vampyre..." is a really good song, with guitar work sounding like Pink Floyd and the synths in the background just meld everything together in a soothing blend of liquid QOTSA.

    "If I had A Tail", gets itself in my head again and again because it is so catchy. The grooves that the drums and the bass have together work really well on this song, and the Desert Rock feel on this song and throughout the album is like Songs for the Deaf. With Olivier and Lanegan on backing vocals the chorus has a really meaty feel to it, which is a bit lost on this album soundwise, the reason why some compared "My God Is The Sun" to a Them Crooked Vultures song.

    And then of course we get to "My God Is The Sun", half way into the album, and we are breezing through with Michael Shuman's powerful Bass playing propels this song into a heavy and loud torment of wonder. "Kalopsia" is quiet and feels like it can drag in the verses until the chorus' screech into life gouging your eyes out to make sure you don't drift off into "the land of the nightmares".

    "Fairweather Friends" follows along with "Smooth Sailing", bringing a slightly funkier side to band, but there is still that definite Hard Rock sound to both of them. And then, the penultimate track on our sixth adventure through the desert is "I Appear Missing". It is a true Queens of the Stone Age masterpiece. The whole song is epic and unbelievable. It follows suit in other QOTSA songs such as "You Can't Quit Me Baby", "I Think I Lost My Headache" and "A Song for the Dead". We are in old school territory here in terms of song construction. Half of the song is an incredible emotional journey of strength from every band member before going into a complex rhythmic section and then into the solo that just is so very good. It wails and plays around with the fabric of air. It manipulates your senses ins ecstasy.

    But, it doesn't end. "...Like Clockwork" ends the album. And the band end the album quietly, but with energy and a brooding bass line to fit. It feels like the end to and epic journey, because it is. The band have improved on their past two albums and made a very good album. This is up there with Rated R, and maybe just ahead of Songs for the Deaf. People will be listening to this, they will be loving this just as we do with their earlier work, for years to come. The only issues I have, is that sometimes it struggles to hold itself in the slower songs, Josh's voice doesn't do as well as in the louder powerful songs, but I can live with that. I can live with this album, I can live with it for decades.

    Rated R, Songs for the Deaf, ...Like Clockwork.    … Expand
  14. PRTYNTGRVS
    Oct 23, 2013
    10
    With ...Like Clockwork, QOTSA delivers their most energetic, cohesive, focused and now, their most memorable LP to date. The band poured their blood (figuratively) sweat, and tears into this and through the smart and well balanced musicianship and instrumentation it's felt and heard. The balance between rock anthems and ballads remain fair and true, even Homme's vocals become moreWith ...Like Clockwork, QOTSA delivers their most energetic, cohesive, focused and now, their most memorable LP to date. The band poured their blood (figuratively) sweat, and tears into this and through the smart and well balanced musicianship and instrumentation it's felt and heard. The balance between rock anthems and ballads remain fair and true, even Homme's vocals become more emotional here as he shows a more soft side, which takes guts to do in the music scene. Lyrically and thematically, the album tackles themes of abandonment, loss and heartache with a dark and menacing approach, helping ...Like Clockwork become more appealing to practically anybody. It's an immersive album that comes alive instantly after hitting play, and its effect upon listeners will cause repercussions that will bounce around the head for months. It takes audacity, time (6 years to be exact), and patience to make a strong, sharp and engaging album like this. The band tend to become liberal with this sound that they have on this LP however this sound rarely lingers as MOR (middle-of-road) material by QOTSA standards even dealing a gentle tune here and then. Primarily, this is a fantastic record and QOTSA show that even after being broken and torn, they still can rock beyond standards set up for them long ago. *Kyuss would be so proud. On the verge of being forgotten after a six year hiatus, QOTSA deliver a relentless, brutal and tenacious record that forces you to keep them in the recesses of your brain.… Expand
  15. TheMaximalist
    Feb 15, 2014
    9
    http://bit.ly/1b6f6g1 The collaborators on this album never really take the forefront or take over the track they're on (besides Alex Turner). What they do is assist the true stars, Queens of the Stone Age. What Queens have managed to do is create one of the best albums of the last 10 years and evolve as a band. What is even more astounding is that they didn't need to flood it with effectshttp://bit.ly/1b6f6g1 The collaborators on this album never really take the forefront or take over the track they're on (besides Alex Turner). What they do is assist the true stars, Queens of the Stone Age. What Queens have managed to do is create one of the best albums of the last 10 years and evolve as a band. What is even more astounding is that they didn't need to flood it with effects or overproduce it. It proves that the old fashioned way of making music is still alive and that you can make amazing albums doing it that way. The hype this album has received is just.… Expand
  16. TastyJamProject
    Jun 4, 2013
    9
    Just listened to the vinyl LP. So good, and it sounds amazing. What's odd is that it's meant to be played at 45 RPM, and I've never seen that on an LP before, (they're usually 35 RPM). Just a quirky note. I fell like they might have done it on purpose to screw with people, or not, I don't know the absolute specifics of what goes into pressing an album. Whatever, the music is great, havingJust listened to the vinyl LP. So good, and it sounds amazing. What's odd is that it's meant to be played at 45 RPM, and I've never seen that on an LP before, (they're usually 35 RPM). Just a quirky note. I fell like they might have done it on purpose to screw with people, or not, I don't know the absolute specifics of what goes into pressing an album. Whatever, the music is great, having a cohesive theme, yet every song has its own distinct sound. It's hard to pick favourites, but "My God is the Sun," "Fair-weather Friends" and "I Sat by the Ocean" are exuberant. The title track is a quiet, introspective, unique track that greatly closes the album. I get some hints of The Who and Supertramp in here, although it's mostly just the warped genius of Queens of the Stone Age. Another definitive, exemplary album from a band that just keeps getting better.… Expand
  17. bdurmaz
    Apr 26, 2017
    8
    After a long hiatus, QOTSA returned... ambitious as ever. ...Like Clockwork is a bit different than the QOTSA we were used to, but this album gets better by each go and in my opinion goes head to head with their every other album except Songs For the Deaf.
  18. edvard
    Oct 5, 2013
    10
    har fan inte hört så här jävla krallig rock musik på jävligt länge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  19. agibbons_96
    Dec 10, 2015
    9
    After a busy and extremely turbulent period for frontman Josh Homme, QOTSA returned in 2013 with their sixth record, inspired by his bout of depression and his near-death experience on the operating table. It is without question, the weirdest sounding album Queens have released to date, but it also the rawest. Homme's passion and emotion comes through in a way that has rarely happenedAfter a busy and extremely turbulent period for frontman Josh Homme, QOTSA returned in 2013 with their sixth record, inspired by his bout of depression and his near-death experience on the operating table. It is without question, the weirdest sounding album Queens have released to date, but it also the rawest. Homme's passion and emotion comes through in a way that has rarely happened before, delving into himself in a way even he couldn't have imagined. While the album continues the trend of being sonically different from each of the five albums gone before it, there's a sense that it's the closest thing to their 2002 breakthrough “Songs for the Deaf” they've ever made, but only with a more Floydian vibe as opposed to the driving, groove-based sound that dominated the group's first three records. The lyricism on many of the tracks, especially “I Sat By the Ocean”, “The Vampyre of Time and Memory” and the title track, are among the best Homme has ever penned. The instrumentals compliment the chaotic, depressive (and borderline nihilist and self-destructive) topics on show here brilliantly, whilst maintaining the sharp, crunchy desert rock sound the group are renowned for. Old friends such as Nick Olivieri, Mark Lanegan and Dave Grohl (who filled out the group on “Songs for the Deaf”) make welcome returns to the fold, as well as guest spots from Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails), Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Sir Elton John. And even though the guest list is large, as has always been on Queens' records, Homme's always been the one who's ran the show, although he takes the attention away from himself on “Fairweather Friends” which instantaneously feels like the massive group effort that it is. “I Appear Missing”, the album's penultimate track is nothing short of genius that shows Homme at his most helpless and despondent, and features an excellent syncopated rhythm section and a painfully emotive solo and climax that can evoke a tear from a glass eye. The only gripes with the album (which are few and far between) is that “Keep Your Eyes Peeled” is a fairly poor song in comparison to the other nine here (the plus of that is at least it opens the album and is thankfully not wedged between “If I Had a Tail” and “My God Is the Sun”). While the fact that “I Appear Missing” and “...Like Clockwork” weren't swapped in the tracklist does give an almost anti-climatic feel to the end of the album, but because of the overall quality of the songwriting, production and lyricism here, it is still a fantastic album that many (like Homme) who have been down a dark path, can relate to. If Josh is “...gonna pray for rain, again and again...”, then hopefully the quality of his work then is as good as it is here.

    Album Highlights - “The Vampyre of Time and Memory”, “If I Had a Tail”, “My God Is the Sun”, “Fairweather Friends” and “I Appear Missing”.    … Expand
  20. TwisterAce
    Jun 15, 2013
    10
    ...Like Clockwork proves that Queens of the Stone Age are still one of the most fascinating bands in rock today. It may very well be the band's best record since Songs for the Deaf. Powered by crunchy guitar riffs and haunting vocal harmonies, supplemented by piano and vintage synths, the album is both seductive and sinister. The darker, more introspective lyrics (inspired by frontman Josh...Like Clockwork proves that Queens of the Stone Age are still one of the most fascinating bands in rock today. It may very well be the band's best record since Songs for the Deaf. Powered by crunchy guitar riffs and haunting vocal harmonies, supplemented by piano and vintage synths, the album is both seductive and sinister. The darker, more introspective lyrics (inspired by frontman Josh Homme's depression and other recent tumult) add to the mysterious nature of the music. As with previous QOTSA albums, this one features an array of collaborators, including former band members Nick Oliveri and Mark Lanegan, Dave Grohl (who plays drums on half of the songs), Elton John, Trent Reznor, and Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys. Most of the collaborators reside in the background, enhancing the songs rather than dominating at the front. There's more diversity among the ten songs on the album, which sets it apart from the past couple QOTSA albums. All in all, ...Like Clockwork is one of the best albums of the year, and we have Josh Homme and his friends to thank for this wonderful gift.… Expand
  21. RickFlairbombed
    Jun 4, 2013
    9
    One of the best albums Josh Homme has put his name on. On the same level as Rated R and Songs for the Deaf. If I had a tail is wonderfully catchy arena rock type stuff. Most of the melodies stick and don't wear thin like on Era Vulgaris.
  22. Nahil
    Dec 8, 2014
    10
    I listened to this album before I heard any other QOTSA album. I liked it, and then I listened again, and then again. Gave it some time and then came back, and then couldn't stop listening to it. I bought, I've listened to it countless times, and only now with as much space as I have now can I legitimately say that not only is it my favorite album of 2013, it's one of my favorite albumsI listened to this album before I heard any other QOTSA album. I liked it, and then I listened again, and then again. Gave it some time and then came back, and then couldn't stop listening to it. I bought, I've listened to it countless times, and only now with as much space as I have now can I legitimately say that not only is it my favorite album of 2013, it's one of my favorite albums of all time. I won't drag you down with details you already know, but suffice to say this album is just about perfect, even if it doesn't feels so on first listen. It's not for everyone, but if this is your jam, this is REALLY your jam. I love it in every way, even its faults. If you haven't heard it, then listen to it. Now.… Expand
  23. StaticBunny
    Jun 4, 2013
    9
    It's so refreshing to hear Josh Homme's main band record some new music after his recent troubles in the hospital and depressions and whatnot. But how does this new record hold up to the genius they've released before? Well, it matches nearly perfectly in quality to classics like "Songs for the Deaf" and "Lullabies to Paralyze", but strangely stands as its own record. It's more mellow andIt's so refreshing to hear Josh Homme's main band record some new music after his recent troubles in the hospital and depressions and whatnot. But how does this new record hold up to the genius they've released before? Well, it matches nearly perfectly in quality to classics like "Songs for the Deaf" and "Lullabies to Paralyze", but strangely stands as its own record. It's more mellow and heartfelt than previous releases, yet still provides some decent headbangers along the ride. If you're a fan, it's definitely worth checking out. If you're not, it's still definitely worth checking out.… Expand
  24. MusicxxAddicted
    Jun 4, 2013
    7
    It's a good album, but the influence of Elton John is very present over the entire album which makes it sound like QotSA went indie, another band drenched in reverb for no good reason. Still a good album overall, just missing the UMPH they used to have and exchanged it for melodious guitars là Them Crooked Vultures. However this will scare away old fans (except the fanboys who are justIt's a good album, but the influence of Elton John is very present over the entire album which makes it sound like QotSA went indie, another band drenched in reverb for no good reason. Still a good album overall, just missing the UMPH they used to have and exchanged it for melodious guitars là Them Crooked Vultures. However this will scare away old fans (except the fanboys who are just tossing 10's), only the future can tell if it's a change for the better.… Expand
  25. shprea
    Jun 24, 2013
    9
    After listening to this album for the first time, I found myself completely obsessed with it. I find myself constantly listening to it over and over again, immersed in its excellence. ...Like Clockwork, in a way, sounds to me like Lullabies to Paralyze should have sounded. At times it is the classic hard rock you expect from the Queens of the Stone Age, and at other times it slows down,After listening to this album for the first time, I found myself completely obsessed with it. I find myself constantly listening to it over and over again, immersed in its excellence. ...Like Clockwork, in a way, sounds to me like Lullabies to Paralyze should have sounded. At times it is the classic hard rock you expect from the Queens of the Stone Age, and at other times it slows down, allowing the band to really display their vocal strength in a way they have not quite done yet. While I love every song on the album, the true go-to song here is definitely "I Appear Missing", a song that so well done that it stands as one of my all time favorite QotSA songs. All in all, this is a must buy album. It's not quite as amazing as, say, Rated R or Songs for the Deaf, but it stands as the one of the bands most ambitious and outstanding achievements to date.

    9.3/10    … Expand
  26. notoriouspdb
    Jun 4, 2013
    10
    If Songs for the Deaf was the definitive record of QOTSA as a collaborative project born in the desert sessions, ...Like Clockwork is the definitive record of QOTSA as Josh Homme's band. Quite possibly the best (and certainly the most focused) album of their career, and a strong AOTY contender in an impossibly good year for music.
  27. DisasterpieceMK
    Jun 5, 2013
    10
    Just finishing up my second listen and from top to bottom, every track is enjoyable. This is first time I can say that about a QOTSA album (though they have all been better than average at worst). In fact, I don't say that about many albums very often they all seem to have a clunker or two in the mix, at least as far as my tastes are concerned. But I am struggling to find that here andJust finishing up my second listen and from top to bottom, every track is enjoyable. This is first time I can say that about a QOTSA album (though they have all been better than average at worst). In fact, I don't say that about many albums very often they all seem to have a clunker or two in the mix, at least as far as my tastes are concerned. But I am struggling to find that here and that is an amazing feat for an album in this age.… Expand
  28. Abutre
    Dec 8, 2013
    10
    ASS_N_TREBLE IS AN IDIOT! AND IS BECAUSE OF THESE IDIOTS THAT I GIVE NOTE MAXIMUM
    this idiot has done here more negative votes for this album, it's not just this, and the funny thing is that it has no further comment other albums.
    Não brinquem, quem são vocês para fazerem uma revisão de um artista seus idiotas...são artista? compõem música? são inteligentes o suficiente para estarem aqui    ASS_N_TREBLE IS AN IDIOT! AND IS BECAUSE OF THESE IDIOTS THAT I GIVE NOTE MAXIMUM
    this idiot has done here more negative votes for this album, it's not just this, and the funny thing is that it has no further comment other albums.
    Não brinquem, quem são vocês para fazerem uma revisão de um artista seus idiotas...são artista? compõem música? são inteligentes o suficiente para estarem aqui a dar pontuação, são estudiosos nesta matéria. Só sabem ouvir o que os media querem e depois fazem critica de coisas que não percebem... há por aqui muito atrasado mental a fazer revisão (ass_n_treble......), gostava de conhecer esse calhorda E OS OUTROS PESSOALMENTE, a minha psicopatia vem ao de cima, com este tipo de gente. Não constroem nada apenas destroem e incendeiam, adorava ter esses calhordas minha frente, reduzia-os a uma massa de carne e sangue.. Daqui a 10 ANOS veremos quem são os VERDADEIROS CLÁSSICOS.    … Expand
  29. cheapycheep
    Jun 11, 2013
    10
    Brilliant album from Queens of the stone age, the only criticism i could offer is that its only 10 songs long, but that wouldn't be a problem if every song wasn't fantastic. The album manages to be completely different from anything that they have done before but remain classic Queens.
  30. The_PUNisher97
    Jan 12, 2015
    10
    God this album is so good. Like, I love QOTSA a LOT, enough to say that all of their releases so far have been really solid. But this album looks and feels like a return to what they were doing back in the late 90's and early 2000's. This is superior to both Era Vulgaris and Lullabies to Paralyze (both of which are still very good albums) and is right up there with Rated R, Songs for theGod this album is so good. Like, I love QOTSA a LOT, enough to say that all of their releases so far have been really solid. But this album looks and feels like a return to what they were doing back in the late 90's and early 2000's. This is superior to both Era Vulgaris and Lullabies to Paralyze (both of which are still very good albums) and is right up there with Rated R, Songs for the Deaf, and their self-titled debut in 1998. The thematic nature is so wonderful, and it makes my favorite tracks like "I Sat by the Ocean", "If I Had a Tail", "Smooth Sailing", and "I Appear Missing" all feel so effortlessly connected and beautiful. Seriously, this album is ****… Expand
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

67
#67 Best Album of 2013
18
#18 Most Discussed Album of 2013
41
#41 Most Shared Album of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 46 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 41 out of 46
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 46
  3. Negative: 1 out of 46
  1. Classic Rock Magazine
    Jul 23, 2013
    90
    Their rejuvenating effects make this the most rounded and melodic QOTSA album in a decade, a triumph snatched from the mortuary doors. [Summer 2013, p.88]
  2. Delusions of Adequacy
    Jul 23, 2013
    90
    It’s the kind of album we critics tritely refer to as a return to form but with the massively remarkable beast that ...Like Clockwork royally is, never has the phrase been more fitting.
    Read full review
  3. Magnet
    Jul 17, 2013
    35
    Queens Of The Stone Age lumbers its way through a series of increasingly skronky, sludge-by-numbers jams and sound. [No. 100, p.57]
See all critic reviews »