The enigmatic and ever-eclectic Brian Jonestown Massacre played Liverpool Olympia on 7.2.25. Anton Newcombe and the band brought their unique brand of psychedelic rock to the city again.

The last visit was only an year ago but fans in good numbers swiftly filled the cold room to see support band which was Project Gemini. Responsible for the project is producer and writer Paul Osborne. Tonight, on bass guitar and vocals Osborne was backed with 3 other musicians. They served us a good portion of psych-folk-funk, with perfect rhythm section where complex bass played key role. I was charmed by them and will definitely check their music catalogue.

Just after nine as the main band took to the stage, a hush fell over the crowd, like a collective held breath. And then, with a flicker of guitar strings and a thrum of bass, the magic started. The setlist was a collection of old and new, we could hear classics  like ‘Nevertheless’, ‘When jokers attack’ and very well received by the public ‘Do rainbows have ends?’ from their last album ‘The future is your past’.

Weaving together tales of love, loss, and redemption, as the band’s signature blend of garage rock, psychedelia, and Eastern influences conjured images of far-off lands, mystical rituals, and secret societies. The crowd was entranced by the band’s ability to create a sense of tension and release, with each song building to a crescendo of noise and energy.

Later the band delved deeper into their extensive discography, playing fan favourites like ‘Anemone’ and ‘Phish’. Newcombe’s guitar work was a highlight, with his signature blend of fuzz and reverb creating a sonic landscape that was both beautiful and brutal.

The Brian Jonestown Massacre’s show at Olympia Liverpool was a Top class lesson in psychedelic rock, truly beautiful experience. If you’re a fan of psychedelic rock, or just looking for a truly unique and unforgettable live experience, do yourself a favour and catch the Brian Jonestown Massacre on their next remaining dates of the tour.

THE JONESTOWN MASSACRE

PROJECT GEMINI

Photos + Review by Tomas Adam