In Episode 320 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down with Jon Theodore, powerhouse drummer for rock titans Queens of the Stone Age.
Recorded back in July 2026 to coincide with the major announcement of the band’s return to Australia and New Zealand for the first time in two years, Jon breaks down the release of their single “Easy Street”, transitioning out of their intimate Catacombs chamber-orchestra reinvention phase, and getting back to raw, acoustic rock ‘n’ roll.
The conversation covers everything from the conceptual visual work wrapping up their ninth studio album, Perfecth (released October 30, 2026 via Matador Records), to the essential role piano played in Jon’s rhythmic foundation, plus an impromptu detour into an unscripted trip to a Bass Pro Shop.
We chat about
The Australian & New Zealand Return: Jon shares his excitement about heading back Down Under, noting that the audience energy in Australia and New Zealand makes it one of the band’s favorite places on earth to launch an album cycle.
New Single “Easy Street” & The Catacombs Transition: Reflecting on the fresh single, Jon credits Josh Homme’s razor-sharp, emotional, yet dark-humored lyrics. Coming off the heels of the Catacombs tour, where Jon experimented with Roland V-Drums, he confirms the new album Perfecth is pure, old-school acoustic rock drums from top to bottom.
Behind the Scenes & Bass Pro Shop: Breaking the myth of non-stop backstage glamour, Jon dives into the story behind their viral Instagram moment: hitting a water park on a day off, finding it closed, and spending the afternoon gearing up with collapsible fishing rods at a Bass Pro Shop instead.
Musical Roots (Piano vs. Drums): Jon reflects on starting his musical journey on piano, calling it the ultimate “total instrument” for independence, theory, and performance, an essential foundation that shaped how he approaches composition and rhythm behind the kit.
The New Album in 5 Words: When put on the spot to sum up Perfecth in five words, Jon’s verdict: Synergistic. Provocative. Varied. Fun. Successful.
2026 Australia & New Zealand Tour Dates
Tuesday, December 8, 2026: Adelaide, SA – The Drive
Friday, December 11, 2026: Hobart, TAS -MyState Bank Arena
Sunday, December 13, 2026: Melbourne, VIC – Rod Laver Arena
Tuesday, December 15, 2026: Sydney, NSW – Qudos Bank Arena
Wednesday, December 16, 2026: Newcastle, NSW – Newcastle Entertainment Centre
Friday, December 18, 2026: Brisbane, QLD – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Sunday, December 20, 2026: Auckland, NZ – Spark Arena
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