In March 2000, when Primal Scream performed "Kowalski" live at the Astoria in London, they were riding the wave of their acclaimed album "XTRMNTR," which was released just a month prior in February 2000. This album marked a significant shift towards a more political and electronic sound, showcasing the band's evolution from their earlier rock-oriented work. "XTRMNTR" received critical acclaim and is often regarded as one of their best records, featuring a mix of genres and collaborations that highlighted their willingness to experiment. During this period, Primal Scream also faced challenges related to the music industry's landscape and their own internal dynamics, but their energetic live performances continued to demonstrate their relevance and innovation, engaging fans with a powerful blend of rock and electronic music.