Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse to Perform in Berkeley

Striking a chord with audiences, the performance by the Flaming Lips at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley during their co-headlining tour stop with Modest Mouse was a memorable one. While both bands delivered impressive sets, there was a standout moment that captured the essence of the night and will likely go down as one of the coolest concert moments in 2025.

The climax of the show came at the encore when Flaming Lips’ frontman Wayne Coyne led the band in a powerful rendition of Black Sabbath’s classic “War Pigs.” The unexpected Ozzy Osbourne tribute from an indie-pop band known for a different style showcased the versatility and commitment of the Flaming Lips. Despite their usual indie sound, they tackled the legendary anti-war anthem with such passion and vigor that it would have impressed even Black Sabbath mastermind Tony Iommi.

Sporting an American flag as a cape, Coyne channeled the spirit of Ozzy with a dynamic performance, captivating the audience with his energy. The true star of the performance, however, was drummer Matt Duckworth, who flawlessly executed the challenging drum parts of Sabbath’s legendary drummer, Bill Ward.

The show marked a high point in an already memorable night for both bands. Modest Mouse kicked off the evening with a powerful 75-minute set. Led by vocalist-guitarist Isaac Brock, the band delivered fan favorites like “Gravity Rides Everything,” “Fire It Up,” and “King Rat.” Highlights included singalongs to the hit single “Float On” and an epic performance of “Tiny Cities Made of Ashes” from their acclaimed album “Moon & Antarctica.”

Following Modest Mouse, the Flaming Lips took the stage with their own unique brand of performance art. Their set was filled with special effects, giant inflatables, streamers, and bouncing balloon balls that engaged the audience throughout. While the band’s song selection may not have matched Modest Mouse in quantity, their creativity and over-the-top theatrics created an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Overall, the co-headlining tour stop at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley left a lasting impression on the audience through standout performances from both the Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse. With a perfect mix of musical prowess and showmanship, the concert will surely be remembered as one of the most memorable moments in live music in 2025.