Huntsville got a real treat Sunday night as the Sessanta V2 tour rolled into the Orion Amphitheater, throwing an unforgettable birthday bash for Maynard James Keenan, who just turned 61. The show featured a rotating set of three legendary bands, A Perfect Circle, Puscifer, and Primus, all sharing the stage in a unique three-act format that kept the energy high and the transitions to a minimal.
Instead of traditional set changes, all three bands were set up at once, swapping in and out as the night went on. Between sets, hilarious and surreal video clips played on the side screens, setting the tone and signaling who was up next. Things kicked off with a bizarre, off-the-wall intro about SPAM (yes, the canned meat), before A Perfect Circle took the stage and launched into “The Package,” sending the crowd into a frenzy. After the first song, a cupcake was rolled out for Maynard, the birthday boy himself, and the band powered through a tight three-song opener.
Then it was Primus’ turn. Les Claypool lit up the stage with “Here Comes the Bastards,” his wild bass lines front and center. During their third song, the crowd got an extra surprise when funk legend John Norwood Fisher joined the band on stage. Next up was Puscifer, kicking off with “Man Overboard.” Maynard returned with Carina Round, and together they delivered the eerie, theatrical energy Puscifer is known for. That wrapped up just the first act of what would be a three-hour adventure.
Act II opened with a bang, Primus leading the charge with “Little Lord Fentanyl,” this time joined by Puscifer. Each of the 3 bands got a longer spotlight in this round, performing four songs apiece. Primus dropped fan favorites like “My Name is Mud” and “Jerry Was a Racecar Driver,” and Les killed it with his signature slap bass antics.
Puscifer and A Perfect Circle followed, delivering standout sets of their own. During “The Doomed,” drummer Gunner Olsen was joined by the legendary Josh Freese, creating a booming drumline that shook the venue. This act had everything—hit songs, unexpected collaborations, and even a mid-set ping pong match that somehow worked perfectly with the night’s quirky vibe.
The third and final act didn’t let up. Puscifer opened with the haunting “A Humbling River,” and Primus brought the weird (in the best way) with “Too Many Puppies” and “Southbound Pachyderm,” the latter featuring Les wearing a mirrorball helmet that turned the stage into a swirling galaxy.
A Perfect Circle closed things out with a show-stopping version of “Judith,” and the crowd sang along to every word. For the grand finale, all three bands crowded the stage for “Grand Canyon.” Maynard finally gave the crowd the green light to film, and the moment was epic, three drummers playing in sync, guitars everywhere, Les on upright bass, and Maynard and Carina’s vocals echoing through the night.
Sessanta V2 is more than a concert, it’s a expertly crafted experience. With no downtime or changeovers, the music just keeps coming. It’s an exhilarating ride through three iconic catalogs, all tied together by humor, art, and raw talent. At 61, Maynard proves he’s still one of the most captivating performers in rock. If this tour hits your city, don’t miss it. It’s a masterclass in live performance.
Sessanta V2 Tour continues through June 7th of 2025. For upcoming shows, visit https://sessantalive.com/.
Follow A Perfect Circle, Puscifer, and Primus on their socials below:
A Perfect Circle: Instagram // Facebook
Puscifer: Instagram // Facebook
Primus: Instagram // Facebook
