Summary of Morbid Podcast Episode 690: "Paris Catacombs, Haunted Accordions and More with Josh Homme"

Introduction

In Episode 690 of Morbid, hosted by Ash and Elena from the Morbid Network | Wondery, the spotlight is on the mysterious and macabre Paris Catacombs. This episode features a special guest appearance by Josh Homme, the frontman of Queens of the Stone Age. Together, they explore the dark history of the Catacombs, Homme's unique performance within its depths, and delve into chilling ghost stories that haunt the subterranean tunnels.

Josh Homme and His Paris Catacombs Performance

Ash introduces Josh Homme with great enthusiasm, highlighting his multifaceted career as a musician and his recent groundbreaking performance. Homme's band, Queens of the Stone Age, became the first to legally perform in the Paris Catacombs, releasing Queens of the Stone Age Alive in the Catacombs on Friday, June 13. Ash describes the performance as "super intimate" and "totally unplugged," emphasizing the respectful and honoring manner in which the band approached the sacred space (00:56).

Notable Quote:

Josh shares, "They did it in a black and white thing which, like, just gives it a warmer... feels super cozy" (02:15).

Elena echoes Ash's sentiments, noting the haunting beauty and the profound connection Homme felt during the performance, which was further captured in a behind-the-scenes documentary.

History and Significance of the Paris Catacombs

The hosts provide a deep dive into the history of the Paris Catacombs, explaining their origin in the 12th century as limestone quarries. By the 18th century, structural collapses forced King Louis XVI to transform these underground tunnels into ossuaries to address overflowing graveyards and public health crises caused by decomposing bodies (06:00).

Notable Quote:

Ash exclaims, "6 million. Which is three times the population of Paris alone. Which is just... my brain can't comprehend that" (07:15).

They discuss the meticulous arrangement of bones into artful displays, creating a somber yet fascinating tourist attraction that honors the lives lost.

Josh Homme's Personal Connection and Experience

Josh delves into his long-standing fascination with the Catacombs, tracing it back to his childhood when he first learned about them in history class. He shares how this interest evolved into a profound connection, culminating in his band's historic performance there (24:22).

Notable Quote:

Josh reflects, "I think there's a beauty in that and that the only way to live is to know that you won't forever" (26:14).

He recounts his immersive experience during the performance, describing the existential feelings and the overwhelming presence of millions of souls beneath Paris.

Paranormal Tales and Unexplained Phenomena

Throughout the episode, Ash, Elena, and Josh share various ghost stories and unexplained phenomena associated with the Catacombs. They discuss encounters with apparitions, such as the mysterious "Full Body Isaac," and explore how the ambiance of the Catacombs fosters both artistic inspiration and eerie experiences (52:40).

Notable Quote:

Elena muses, "There's something really beautiful in the effort it took to make this, you know, the catacombs" (14:22).

The conversation highlights the blend of life and death within the tunnels, creating a setting ripe for both creativity and supernatural occurrences.

Interactive Segment: 'Would You Rather' in the Catacombs

Adding a playful twist, the hosts and Josh engage in a "Would You Rather" game themed around catacomb scenarios. They humorously navigate through chilling choices, such as encountering haunted objects or dealing with ghostly presences, showcasing their chemistry and the podcast's signature blend of humor and horror (70:12).

Notable Quote:

Ash jokes, "We decide. So if we've made it out alive," (74:37).

This segment not only entertains but also deepens the listeners' immersion into the catacomb atmosphere.

Josh Homme's Charity Promotion

Towards the end of the episode, Josh promotes his charity, the Sweet Stuff Foundation, which supports musicians and their families facing illnesses. Ash and Elena express their admiration, encouraging listeners to check out and support Josh's philanthropic efforts (99:36).

Notable Quote:

Josh states, "Sweetstuff.org awesome" (99:36).

Conclusion

Episode 690 of Morbid masterfully intertwines the rich history of the Paris Catacombs with Josh Homme's unique artistic endeavor, all while exploring the haunting and mysterious aspects that make the Catacombs a place of both beauty and terror. Ash, Elena, and Josh provide listeners with a compelling narrative that is both informative and engaging, staying true to the podcast's blend of true crime, creepy history, and all things spooky.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Josh Homme on Performance Aesthetics (02:15)

  "They did it in a black and white thing which, like, just gives it a warmer... feels super cozy."

• Ash on the Scale of the Catacombs (07:15)

  "6 million. Which is three times the population of Paris alone. Which is just... my brain can't comprehend that."

• Josh Homme on the Beauty of Mortality (26:14)

  "I think there's a beauty in that and that the only way to live is to know that you won't forever."

• Elena on the Effort Behind the Catacombs (14:22)

  "There's something really beautiful in the effort it took to make this, you know, the catacombs."

• Ash on Escaping the Catacombs (74:37)

  "We decide. So if we've made it out alive."

• Josh Homme Promoting Sweet Stuff Foundation (99:36)

  "Sweetstuff.org awesome."

Note: Timestamps are approximate and correspond to the transcript provided.