Random Artist Feature: Queensrÿche (26 MINUTES)

Here's the latest in this new series of Artist Features on YouTube.

I really chose Queensryche to feature next per that large collection of singls/eps/designed Vinyls and posters I acquired in the last 2 years. Most of them from that 1 store out in Eagan, Cedar Cliff Collectibles

The length is also largely a product of the amount, as I would guess if I had just covered my take on each studio record, it would have only been between 10-15 minutes tops.

And I wish I could have found my copy of Promised Land, but I didn't have hours to spend hunting for it among my cds. I found the large books I got when I acquired these 2 200-300 Jukebox cd players from BestBuy in the 90's, but alas, it along with my other Queensryche cds, were not in there.

Per a comment on there and from Jammindude, I recall being urged to check out Condition Human, which I may finally do again. I remember putting it on 1 day this Fall and finding it okay at best. But I suppose part of my issue is, as it's been with other bands, is how similar the singer may sound to Geoff Tate may ruin it for me.

Per the ProgPowerUSA festivals and some of the bands at the early ones I attended, a lot of bands had singers that sounded almost exactly like Geoff Tate, which always ruined their music for me. Even Power of Omens, who I do enjoy, and Zero Hour eventually, both had singers that did, and it was always difficult for me to not be bugged by.

But maybe after all these years, and it actually being Queensryche themselves, may make a difference for me. I guess I'll see.

Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime II

When Queensryche announced their plans to return to 'Operation: Mindcimre' the reaction was mixed. Fans were wondering if the band could pull off such a maneuver without one of the primary songwriters of the original, ex guitarist Chris DeGarmo. After a brief tour featuring the entire first 'Mindcrime' and a couple tracks the band were working on, Queensryche once again went into the studio to create rock 'n roll history.

The opening track "Freheit Ouverture" immediately puts to rest the worries of the bands ability to craft a worthy follow up to one of the greatest concept albums of all time. The playing is tight and the music is just as good as anything from it's predecessor. The lead off cut to the story "I'm American" (played as a work in progress on the tour) is a balls to the wall rocker with some of the best vocal work seen from Tate in a long time.

The lyrics, inspired by the current political climate in the United States, are centered around Nikki's revenge and redemption. Many asked/unasked questions are answered in the nearly one hour story (although at times the story may be slightly unbelievable). Musically, this is the album that Queensryche fans have been waiting for. The crunch of the original re-appears, while the experience of these seasoned musicians shines throughout the album.

Reprising her role as Sister Mary, Pamela Moore returns to the story as a ghost of her memory in Nikki's head. One of the most surprising guest roles is Ronnie James Dio as the evil Doctor X.

Although the disc is not as good as the original 'Mindcrime' (what could be?!?), this sequel is not only a worthy addition to the already vastly impressive Queensryche discography, but it's more than worthy of the 'Mindcrime' title.

-YtseRob