When a massive installation dubbed “Pearl Jam Lane” featuring a walkway adorned with custom posters celebrating the grunge band appeared at Bondi Beach on February 10 and 11, fans of the American rock giants knew something was up. Their instincts were spot on, as Pearl Jam has just announced their return to Australia for the first time in over a decade.
As fans strolled past these iconic visuals, they were greeted by an “Alive Stickman” logo, followed by a custom traffic light pole urging them to “push for Pearl Jam”. The experience culminated with a snippet of Pearl Jam’s unreleased single, “Dark Matter”, leaving attendees buzzing with excitement.
Additionally, a large LED screen provided fans with the opportunity to scan a QR code, teasing more music and potentially unveiling hints about an upcoming Australian tour.
Pearl Jam’s last visit to Australia dates back to 2014 when they headlined the final Big Day Out. The eclectic lineup that year included Arcade Fire, Snoop Dogg, Flume, The Lumineers, Tame Impala, and more.
As anticipation mounts for their return, Pearl Jam recently teased their new single, “Dark Matter”, on social media. This track marks their first release since their 2023 live album, Give Way, and serves as the lead single for their upcoming studio album.
On 14 February 2024, Pearl Jam revealed plans for a four-stop stadium tour across Australia and New Zealand. The Dark Matter World Tour is slated for November, coinciding with the release of their highly anticipated new album on April 19.
The confirmed tour schedules are:
- Go Media Stadium, Mt Smart, Auckland – 8 November
- Heritage Bank Stadium, Gold Coast – 13 November
- Marvel Stadium, Melbourne – 16 November
- Giants Stadium, Sydney – 21 November
Securing tickets for Pearl Jam’s first Aussie show in a decade won’t be a walk in the park. Members of Pearl Jam’s official fan club, Ten Club, will enjoy priority access to tickets through Ticketmaster Request. For non-members, registration for the Dark Matter World Tour 2024 sale is available until February 18. However, registration does not guarantee access to the sale.
Pearl Jam, formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1990, has remained a powerhouse in the rock scene. Frontman Eddie Vedder expressed his enthusiasm for the band’s upcoming album, proclaiming it to be their best work yet. With excitement building, it’s undoubtedly a thrilling time for Australian fans of Pearl Jam as they eagerly anticipate the band’s long-awaited return.
Published 14-Feb-2024