|
Read the Eddie Jackson interview
Live Queensryche pics
What’s the 4-1-1?
Queensryche was unfairly labeled as a pop/metal hair band back in the ‘80s
and early ‘90s. Their music however, was in a league of its own.
One could classify their sound as a progressive form of metal, far ahead
of its time. Queensryche formed in 1981. Back then the band sounded similar
to Iron Maiden or Judas Priest. They released a few albums that went virtually
unnoticed in the U.S. The band went on to refine there sound, and finally
broke into the mainstream with their 1988 album Operation: Mindcrime. They
followed that album in 1990 with their most successful record to date,
Empire.
Empire is a concept album. I’m not going to try and explain the concept.
Everyone has their own interpretation. One of the great things about this
album is that it really makes you think. It is well written and arranged.
After one song ends, the next song continues the story. If you’re not
into finding deep meaning in your music, Empire is a concrete rock album,
filled with melodic riffs, heavy bass, powerful vocals, and (believe it or
not) keyboards. Keyboards in metal (in 1990)? Believe me, it works!
The overall tone of Empire is dark. The opening track, “Best I Can,” starts
off with an eerie keyboard intro that reminds you of “The Twighlight
Zone”. This track sets the tone of the album. If you’re into
heavy bass, Queensryche makes great use of it in “The Thin Line,” “Della
Brown,” and “Hand on Heart.” The title track, “Empire,” continues
the dark tone with chilling chants that are meant to place you in fear. It
addresses the possibility of how the decay of society could take over the
government.
Geoff Tate is at his best on “Jet City Woman.” The
track starts off slow then builds up to a powerful chorus that will have
you singing along with Tate’s enduring vocals. “Resistance” is
thought provoking. Its message is still strong today (you don’t think
I’m going to tell you what it is?). Of course, Queensryche’s
biggest hit is “Silent Lucidity.” It was in heavy rotation on
MTV and went to number five on the U.S. singles chart. It’s about a
father explaining to his son what it’s like to dream…or is it?
The Verdict
As the last track on Empire asks, “Are you listening?” The
answer is…you should be!
Did You Know?
Guitarist Chris DeGarmo appeared on Jerry Cantrell's (Alice in Chains) Degradation
Trip in 2002.
Rating:  out
of 5
Related Reviews:
Slave to the System - S/T
Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime II
--George Dionne
|
QUEENSRYCHE
