Este fin de semana pasado vinieron a visitarme un par de buenos cuates, mismos que ya tenía un rato que no veía y por consiguiente, las chelotas y el pomote no se hicieron esperar, así que el viernes me encontré disfrutando de una buena dosis de cerveza Nochebuena (es la única época del año en que se fabrica acá en México) y unos tragos de Absolut con quina, todo muy bien y al final me puse hasta la madre, para no variarle con estos campeones.

La cosa es que, mientras estábamos libando, escuchamos música de la buena, y entre las rolas y demás, se dejaron oir algunas melodías más clásicas, de antaño, de aquellas que escuchabas cuando ibas en la secundaria o la preparatoria, algunos años ya de eso, y me propuse postear, esta semana, algunos discos de estos, que hicieron mucho sentido cuando yo estaba más chavo y que, además, son excelentes materiales ampliamente reconocidos por su calidad y entereza metalera.

El primero que me encontré: Empire de los progresivos Queensrÿche. Este disco de principio de los años 90 fue un suceso comercial y musical cuando salió, si mal no recuerdo, por aquellos años el metal alcanzaba niveles de popularidad más elevados que de costumbre, la inminente entrada de Guns N’ Roses y posteriormente de Metallica y otras bandas a MTV y las programaciones regulares de radio comercial dieron al subgénero un repunte rápido y efectivo, mismo que significaría su posterior decadencia a manos del grunge y el “alternativo”.

Pero en medio de todo ese desmadre, los amigos de Queensrÿche, que ya no eran ningunos amateurs, pues un par de años antes habían sacado al mercado Operation: Mindcrime, un disco conceptual posicionado a la par de obras como Tommy de The Who o The Wall de Pink Floyd, y regresaban por todas las canicas que les faltaban.

Es decir, si ya habían conquistado el mundo progresivo under con Operation: Mindcrime, ahora debían apoderarse del lado comercial del rock y metal, y que mejor forma de hacerlo con un discazo como Empire, que muchos de ustedes tal vez no conocen pero ubican, estoy seguro, una gran canción estandarte de la época: Silent Lucidity.

Empire es un gran disco que combina lo mejor de Queensrÿche con melodías más accesibles, con una temática político social más fuerte y con muchas ideas que le generaron a la banda el periodo más fructífero de su longeva carrera: después de este disco se embarcaron en el tour Building Empires, uno de los más exitosos de la primera mitad de los 90, tocaron al lado de la otra gran banda metalera en éxito de la época, Metallica, durante muchas fechas, y dieron a conocer su música por todo el mundo de forma masiva.

De este disco sólo tengo buenas referencias y excelentes memorias, todas las canciones se me hacen de llamar la atención, así que sin más, les digo van, bájenselo de acá, y si lo encuentran por ahí cómprenlo sin pensar, vale la pena un buen.

Carpe diem.

Originarios de Seattle…y a años luz del puto Grunge por suerte, Queensryche fueron los creadores de una trilogia de discos impecable, el monumental Rage For Order, la inconmensarurable obra maestra Operation Mindcrime , un disco perfecto de principio a fin y el elegante Empire.  Después sacarian el bastante bueno The Promise Land y a partir de ahí comenzaron a sacar discos más para su satisfacción que para la de sus fans, algo loable pero perdieron la magia que les hizo grandes.  Tenían y siguen teniendo porque en directo siguen siendo magníficos a un cantante que no es de este mundo Geoff Tate, sin duda uno de los mejores cantantes que te puedas echar a la cara  un par de guitarristas tan sobrios como efectivos y una sección rítmica precisa y contundente con un bateria arrollador . En mi opinión fueron el mejor grupo de Metal de aquellos años y como muestra  ahí tienes Operation Mindcrime para comprobarlo

Ahh! Não há nada como um show durante o dia com uma arena lotada!

Quase me esqueci que hoje era Quinta-Feira, ou seja, dia de exibir as melhores performances de todos os tempos.

Hoje eu vou mostrar o vídeo de uma banda que é simplesmente perfeita ao vivo, o Queensrÿche! E digo isso com propriedade, porque já os vi em 2008. Geoff Tate é o vocalista mais incrível que já vi na minha frente. Para quem não está acostumado, nesse show os integrantes usam umas roupas meio esquesitas, principalmente Tate, além dos Britney mics!

Enfim, esse show foi durante a turnê do álbum Empire (o maior sucesso da carreira da banda que conta com o grande hit Silent Lucidity), a mesma turnê que passou pelo Brasil durante o Rock In Rio II. Como podemos ver é uma banda que prima pelos detalhes e pela perfeição, quase que uma reprodução perfeita do disco, mas ao mesmo tempo sem perder o feeling da coisa. O sempre teatral Geoff Tate, o solo perfeito de Crhis DeGarmo (o que mais senti falta no show de 2008) e um relógio lá atrás chamado Scott Rockenfield são os destaques dessa performance. A música em questão é “Jet City Woman”, uma das mais lindas canções de amor que já vi, e que foi escrita por Tate para sua esposa, que é aeromoça. So, enjoy the video!

by Vodes

“Sing me a song, you’re a singer…”; the opening line from Black Sabbath’s song ‘Heaven and Hell’. I remember seeing Black Sabbath with Ronnie James Dio doing the vocal duties. He was impressive, but pretty far down on the list of what I would consider great singers. I’ve always thought that singing for a band is one of the most difficult jobs because unlike other instruments in the band, it doesn’t require physical dexterity to execute it well. It requires very strong vocal chords…just two little strands of muscle to either sound great or just be another average singer. So, who are the best singers in rock today? Read on and allow me to award medals to the best of the best!

Gold Medal: Geoff Tate. For those of you who may not recognize the name, Geoff Tate is the amazing voice, and backbone, of the group Queensryche. The first time I heard this guy sing, I was blown away. His range is absolutely astounding. And he sounds just as good in concert as he does on the recordings. I was lucky enough to catch Queensryche on the Operation Mindcrime tour. Are you freaking kidding me?!?! My jaw was on the floor the whole show. For some classic Geoff Tate high notes, check out the early stuff like ‘The Warning’ and ‘Rage for Order’. The newest release, entitled ‘American Soldier’, is very good stuff also (and will be a future album review). If you have ever wondered how high the male vocal range can get and still sound as powerful as ever; listen to some Queensryche!

Silver Medalist Bruce Dickinson!

Silver Medal: Bruce Dickinson. I’m not sure if Bruce Dickinson is any more recognizable than the gold medalist, but his voice is just about as remarkable. Bruce has been the front man for Iron Maiden since roughly 1981. He left the band for a few years, and then reunited with them and has been a staple out front ever since. The element about Dickinson’s voice that I most admire is the strength behind the notes. His notes come across almost like an opera. Supposedly, he actually studied opera singing prior to turning to metal music and that’s how he got such a powerful voice and great range. I have seen Iron Maiden several times over the years and the live shows are fantastic! Lot’s of energy! On the album front, my favorite Maiden disc is still ‘Power Slave’, followed very closely by ‘Piece of Mind’ and ‘Number of the Beast’. Virtually any song on any of these albums will put Dickinson’s powerful voice on full display for your listening pleasure. Enjoy!

and finally...Bronze Medalist Freddie Mercury!

Bronze Medal: Freddy Mercury. This vocalist probably needs no introduction. He was easily one of the best vocalists and front men in the business. His real name was Farrokh Bulsara, but he will forever be remembered by his stage name. To me, Freddy Mercury always seemed larger than life. His voice was so enormous and powerful…it propelled the music forward at a frenetic pace, even on the slow songs! His voice simply drove the music right out of the speakers and punched you square in the chest. My favorite Queen album remains ‘News of the World’, but I was also a huge fan of ‘Jazz’ and ‘A Day at the Races’. There are some great, great Queen songs on those albums that really demonstrate the vocal virtuosity of the late, great Freddy Mercury.

Honorable Mention: There are a few singers that I did not mention in the top three, but definitely deserve a shout-out for their vocal ability. I consider Robert Plant a phenomenal vocalist…his range and power are legendary. The late Brad Delp of the group Boston still makes me crank up the volume and try desperately to sing along. James LaBrie of Dream Theatre really belts it out…love that guy’s voice. Brent Smith of Shinedown sounds great, even unplugged! And last but not least, I have to include Rob Halford of Judas Priest. He has the original high-pitched wails that make you cringe! Turn it up! And sing along!

Here are the sources for the second and third photos.

If you know someone who can sing this well, or you can, I want to be their/your friend.

Geoff Tate doesn’t poke much at the mess simmering overseas, Swine Flu or the cause of the “shocking” Jon & Kate Plus 8 hiatus.

The Midwestern comedian’s punch lines are more poignantly aimed at his own existence.

“From growing up, and when I was a kid, and the more current stuff. I don’t do much topical stuff,” he shrugs.

“When you listen back later, I don’t want it to sound dated,” he explains. “That sometimes happens to some people, someone like Dennis Miller. Like, it’s hard enough to understand what he’s talking about; you watch something from 20 years ago, you don’t know what he’s talking about.”

This week when Geoff, special guest Dave Waite and film crews from Grammy-winning Stand Up! Records descend on the Skyline Comedy Cafe stage, crowds can ride shotgun on a wittily smart, laid-back tirade that dodges between disbelief over $200 jeans and Geoff’s obvious American qualities.

You see, on a trip to the DMV a while back, Geoff says the clerk actually asks him to provide six different documents that prove he’s an American.

“All you gotta do is look at me. Take a gander,” he says in signature bewilderment. “I am at least 60 pounds overweight and off work on a Wednesday afternoon. That is very American.”

He pauses before offering further verbal evidence: “I ate an apple pie while I was waiting in line. There’s pieces in my beard. And clearly I am not an immigrant – I’ve got no kids with me.”

Before Geoff and crew come to Appleton for a six-show run Wednesday through Saturday, July 8 – 11, Skyline nabbed a candid chat with the Philadelphia-based funnyman to find out just why fans can’t miss his set:

Skyline Comedy: So…you decided to come back to Skyline to record your new, live CD…

Geoff Tate: Yeah. I’m recording a CD for Stand Up! Records at Skyline. That’s where I picked it; I wanted to do it there. I just like it, like the room, the crowd. I think they generally just have a better room.

Skyline: Stand Up! Records is a fairly huge deal, too. They’ve racked up a few awards…

Geoff Tate: That’s the guy that does Lewis Black’s albums too, I think. They do have some Grammy’s under their belts.

Skyline: You’re fairly new to the comedy scene, a handful of years in? Did you just decide to give it a go, or was it one of those lifelong “I want to be …” things?

Geoff Tate: No, I wanted to be a comedian my entire life, but I didn’t know how. It never seemed like something you could just go do, and eventually I figured out it was. I was working in a hotel in Cincinnati at the time. There was a comedy club in Cincinnati that used the hotel for comedians; they would come and stay there. And then I could go to the club for free, because I worked at that hotel. I started going to that club a lot, just to watch and figure out how to get up on the open mic. So 7, 8 years ago I started.

Skyline: How did that go? Little tough at first?

Geoff Tate: It doesn’t go well for a while, but that’s the way it is for everybody. That’s what weeds people out, who sticks with it when it isn’t going good. Everyone bombs. It still happens now, to everyone at random. You keep doing it, you get consistent, but every now and then you get a group of people who just aren’t into it.

Skyline: So there are some places around the U.S. that are not so friendly?

Geoff Tate: Yeah, they stand out, places in the country where crowds are never good. And they know who they are (laughs). And everywhere else I’ve performed – New York, L.A., Seattle and somewhere else that’s on the other quarter – they all seem to be good. And then the ones that are bad, you tend to know it before you even get there.

Skyline: Ahh, I see…

Geoff Tate: My favorite places to go are places like Appleton, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Those places, they really seem to like comedy and appreciate it. One of the best crowds ever was when I went to Sioux Falls, South Dakota (laughs). You wouldn’t assume that just when you think of where the best places are, but people liked comedy and appreciated the fact that you came to their town. There’s something about that part of the country, where everyone seems to be a little smarter than everywhere else. I think it’s because it’s so cold. When people have to stay inside for long periods of time, eventually you read something.

Skyline: Nice. So what else is new with you? You’re married now, right? a few years ago? Must be nice to have the support system.

Geoff Tate: October 2006, yeah. I think it helps. It definitely helps to have something. Because it’s not very much fun on the road; you tend to not know a lot of people. And when you go home and your house is empty, that probably sucks. That’s not the case for me; I’ve got a wife and a little dog, and that’s all. I prefer being at home, but you can’t make any money that way.

Skyline: Well, this week should be a lot of fun. Get you back, recording, do some live radio again … Speaking of which, you’re on Bob and Tom once in a while…Fun stuff?

Geoff Tate: If you can go there and have fun and just be part of the show, then that’s the most fun. I really like it when it’s like that. But a lot of times it’s just, you go there and you have to write down, like, “I’ve got a joke about this, so ask about this,” so they force feed you the bits, and that’s not fun. And, a lot of radio guys think they’re funny. So instead of letting you do your bit – which is what you’re supposed to be doing – you can’t even get through the premise before they’re throwing out their own bullshit punch lines. I know when I was there last time I did like four or five radio shows.  Some of them were fun! One of the guys there let me introduce a song on the classic rock station. But … I just like to talk about stuff sometimes, be a part of the show and not feel like you’re in the way.

That might be the end of this interview, but remember…every week we give you an exclusive look behind the biggest names in comedy coming to your Premier Fox Valley comedy venue – like no one else gives it to you, BEHIND THE MIC.

$6 Wed  |  $8 Thur  |  $8 Fri  |  $10 Sat

Videos

Geoff Tate Online

(920) 734-Joke (5653)   |   Skyline Comedy Official

'OPERATION: MINDCRIME' Album Cover

ADAM PASCAL

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QUEENSRYCHE

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Тази година е благодатна за феновете на прогресивната музика у нас – ще имаме възможността да видим двата големи колоса на този стил – Queensryche в София на фестивала Рock The Balkans и Dream Theater на Калиакра Рок Фест в Каварна.

Аз имах късмета да се запозная с творчеството на Queensryche в точното време и по най-добрия начин. Първият техен албум, който имах възможността да чуя, беше гениалния “Operation: Mindcrime”, който остана в ума и в сърцето ми завинаги и който съвсем катоегорично смятам за едно от най-важните рок произведения на всички времена.

За съжаление, въпреки световната популярност и милионните тиражи, критиката към американското общество в “Mindcrime” спечели на групата много врагове, които решиха, че момчетата трябва да бъдат наказани за липсата си на патриотизъм.

Queensryche успяха да удържат високото ниво на музиката си с албума “Empire”, а след това и с “Promised Land”, но оттам нататък качеството на музиката им започна чувствително да спада. Вътрешни неразбирателства принудиха основния композитор Chris DeGarmo да напусне, с което групата се лиши от един от най-важните си членове.

Дългоочакваното завръщане с втората версия на “Operation: Mindcrime” така и не се състоя. Въпреки участието на Ronnie James Dio, албумът си беше слаб и с нищо не напомняше за брилянтния оригинал. Тази година Queensryche ни поднасят най-новия си продукт – “American Soldier” – един албум, посветен на американските бойци, воюващи по света, изпълнен със значителна доза патриотизъм – явно целящ да намери път към сърцата на масовия американски слушател.

Не знам дали са успели – продажбите все още са твърде слаби, но пък за сметка на това, албумът ни предлага значително по-високо качество от предишната продукция на групата и напомня за някогашните енергия и талант, които изстреляха групата на върха. Личи си, че когато момчетата са обзети от една идея и тя е успяла да ги вдъхнови истински, се получава един хубав и въздействащ албум.

Преди 6 години Queensryche дойдоха у нас като съпорт на Judas Priest. Тогавашното им турне беше посветено на 15-ата годишнина от излизането на “Operation: Mindcrime” и концерта представляваше сценично изпълнение на целия албум и единствено това. Едно великолепно изпълнение, включващо и оригиналната певица Pamela Moore в ролята на сестра Мери.

Тази година групата идва като съпорт на Limp Bizkit на 29.06 и са подготвили много странен (поне за мен) сетлист – песни от новия албум “American Soldier”, гарнирани с парчета само от албумите “Rage For Order” (излязъл непосредствен преди “Mindcrime”) и “Empire” (излязъл непосредствено след него). И нищо друго. Сякаш се отричат от всичкото си останало творчество. Не, че песните са лоши, но група като тях може да представи и много повече.

Вярвам, че концертът ще бъде хубав, защото Queensryche са голяма група и нееднократно са доказвали, че изпълненията им на сцена са точно толкова добри, както и в студиото, а Geoff Tate категорично е един от най-талантливите рок и метъл певци на нашето време.

Ще се видим там!

За десерт ви предлагам едно интересно интервю с Geoff Tate, в което той разказва за финансовата криза, която групата изживява и решенията, които членовете й намират за да оцелеят. Един мъдър човек, който е разбрал, че светът се променя и няма сила, която да го върне обратно в миналото и е тръгнал да търси начин да се впише в новата ситуация и отново да успее да излезе на върха.

Много поучително! (Благодарности на Svuio!)

De puritito estreno amigos, esta clásica banda de metal progresivo ha entregado hace unos días su último material de estudio titulado American Soldier, disco conceptual sobre los soldados norteamericanos que se encuentran en el frente de guerra y que ha tenido una buena aceptación entre los fans y críticos de metal de varias partes del mundo.

Este disco, el décimo en estudio de los oriundos de Seattle cuenta diversas historias de soldados americanos que han estado en diferentes guerras a través de la historia, incluídos están testimonios hechos canción de la Segunda Guerra Mundial, la Guerra de Vietnam, la de Corea e incluso de más actuales como la de Irak y Afganistán.

Para este proyecto el cantante Geoff Tate ese dedicó los últimos años a entrevistar a diferentes veteranos y soldados que han participado en algunos de esos conflictos bélicos, entre ellos su propio padre, el resultado es un material sólido, con el sello dela casa Queensrÿche bien afianzado y con unas melodías poderosas y bien enfocadas hacia lo que ellos saben hacer mejor: música de alta calidad compositiva e interpretativa.

Entre las canciones que más llamaron mi atención por el gancho auditivo y melódico están Hundred Mile Stare (muy en la onda clásica del grupo), Middle of Hell, Man Down!, Remember Me y Home Again, pero en general todo el trabajo es aceptable, incluso diría que es uno de los mejores que ha dado la banda en sus últimos años y que está casi al nivel de Operation: Mindcrime, uno de los más aclamados de este grupo ya legendario.

Es menester reconocer otros trabajos de Queensrÿche para entender su filosofía e importancia dentro del metal progresivo como Empire y el mismo Operation: Mindcrime, pero definitivamente este American Soldier es un buen disco que este blog recomienda ampliamente.

El link está de este lado, de puro sabor y estreno amigos.

Carpe diem.

Queensryche has done it, done it very, very well too. “American Soldier” is a Progressive Metal achievement, in my Metal opinion. This is a concept album, that was written from the words spoken from those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This release brings Queensryche back to where they belong, at the top of the Metal heap, reminding me of the “Operation Mindcrime” days. This is an album to really follow along to, with the lyrics that are inside the liner notes. Each song does lead itself into the next, both with it’s time line and lyrical content. 

Geoff Tate has the vocals that are shearing with pure emotion, hitting the high notes and making it sound like it was done effortlessly. Michael Wilton on lead guitar does not steal the show, nor does he have to on a splendid Metal creation like this. Michael Wilton plays guitar with exactness, creatively lending his unique sound of his playing the six string do the talking. Ed Jackson on bass and Scott Rockenfield combine for as cohesive a rhythm section as can be, all the while giving each other the flexibility to shine in their own musical identity. Emily Tate (Geoff Tate’s daughter), lends her talented, soft and decisive vocals on “Home Again”, an inspirational song that offers hope, that a solider will come back home. You will hear musical elements that have that Middle East ambiance, something we have been hearing every so often now among many recent Metal releases, (Ozzy Osbourne’s “Black Rain” album for example). “A Dead Man’s Words” will definitely let you know, what I exactly mean on this point. You are not going to hear anything close to “Jet City Woman” here, the pumped up Metal this is not. What should or could pump you up about “American Soldier”, is it’s musical tone and lyrical content, which just might set you straight on a Metal reality check about the value of life.

“American Soldier” is better than I expected, bigger in it’s message than I anticipated, this is the pinnacle of the Queensryche Metal music catalog. Reading through the liner notes, listening to the lyrics, I am convinced that Queensryche made “American Soldier” not for a quick buck, nor for stardom. This band already has both. Queensryche created “American Soldier” as a tribute to the men and women who have served the United States Armed Forces during war and peace time, an appreciation for freedom that comes with a price. Anyone who reads these liner notes and lyrics will walk away with this same opinion, it is impossible not to. In my opinion, this is far from being a political album or statement, I judge it as the liner notes state, that these songs are the voices of the soldiers, of their experiences, in their words.

American Soldier is the tenth (yes, tenth) full-length release from the US prog metal band Queensrÿche. The album’s set release date is March 31, 2009 on Rhino Entertainment.

This album might be the most bland and boring album I have ever reviewed. This is the first album in recent memory that it took me multiple tries to simply listen through it. It simply did not draw my attention. Before I had even heard the album, though, this is aout what I expected. After the letdown that was Operation: Mindcrime II, and the fact that this album is a concept album themed about American soldiers (go figure), I was ready for a thrill ride of suck. To my surprise, however, there was no suck to be had, nor is there any good to be had. There’s simply nothing.

Queensrÿche seem to have wandered far off their unbeaten path from the days of the original Operation: Mindcrime and found their way on to the highway that is modern-day cock rock (with added wailing vocals). Queensrÿche, in my mind, was a purely progressive metal band. Over the years, they have not really lived up to this, it is even more clear now. The most progressive element on this album is the use of a saxophone for about four seconds to round out one of the solos on the album.

It’s always hard to come up with anything to really write about an album with no real notoriety. I can deal with an album that doesn’t being anything new to the table, but when you use old and tired material with no passion or excitement, it makes for an extremely boring listen. Almost unbearable at times. I’m sure there are people out there who will love this, people who will hate it, but I can find any basis for either emotion.

Track picks: “Man Down!” and “Hundred Mile Stare”

Overall Score: 5/10 devil horns

It was 1983 when I first heard Queensryche on the radio, I heard them on an FM station of course, on a radio show that aired on Saturday nights that was called “Metal Shop.” The very first song I ever heard from Queensryche was “Queen of the Reich,” I was hooked by this band ever since. Geoff Tate, in my opinion, has always had just as powerful and prolific vocals as any other singer in the history of Metal. Queensryche can and has fit right into a few different Metal genres, Heavy Metal, Metal and Progressive Metal. With their debut EP “Queensryche” released in 1983, I easily embraced this great Metal band and remembered telling anyone who would listen that this band was for real. Only 4 songs were on the “original” Queensryche EP, – “Queen of the Reich”, “Nightrider”, “Blinded” and “The Lady Wore Black”. These four songs paved the way of the Metal future for Queensryche, without a doubt, an important and historical Metal EP this is. 27 years of recording and touring, Queensryche proved to the world just how real they are! You can still buy this EP, it has since been re-released, (2003), with the addition of 10 bonus tracks. Now, that is far more tunes than the original 4 song, vinyl record I bought back in 1983!

On March 31, 2009, Queensryche will release their brand new studio album, a concept album, titled – “American Soldier.” I have heard bits and pieces of the songs from around the internet already, tremendous and emotionally moving Metal is what I can honestly say at this point. I simply cannot wait to own this album and listen to it time and again! Once I get my copy on March 31, I will listen with Metal glee, then I guarantee a “must buy” review for “American Soldier” right here, on Metal Odyssey.

Queensrÿche’s 10th studio album (if I recall correctly) is to be released on March 31, but I managed to get an early listen of it. American Soldier is a concept album; an album in which every song contributes to an overall idea (in this case, it’s likely something to do with war… probably). This collection of songs does just as the album cover suggests and puts you, the listener, in the boots of an American soldier.

Queensrÿche - American Soldier

The Soldier

For the past two years, lead singer, Geoff Tate, had been conducting dozens of one-on-one interviews with current soldiers as well as veterans. Various snippets of these interviews are scattered throughout the album, and these were enough to show me that the deeds and sacrifices of soldiers are often unsung.  Many have a misconception that soldiers are pro-war, and are promoting its existence. It is not the soldiers who initiate wars, and from what was gathered from the interviews, Tate states:

But what surprised me the most was how antiwar most soldiers are. To me, that makes their sacrifices even more moving.

So whether you actually listen to the album or not, try to appreciate the men and women risking their lives in the battlefield. They are walking down the road through hell so we don’t have to.

The Music (rating: B)

1. Sliver
2. Unafraid
3. Hundred Mile Stare
4. At 30,000 Ft
5. A Dead Man’s Words
6. The Killer
7. Middle of Hell
8. If I Were King
9. Man Down
10. Remember Me
11. Home Again
12. The Voice

Although Queensrÿche is a progressive metal band, this is not a metal album. Initially, I thought a metal album was warranted with this kind of theme, but as I worked my way through this album, I realized that this was a rather realistic portrayal of the impacts of war through a soldier’s eyes. According to Tate, “this is an album about the soldiers, for the soldiers, as told by the soldiers themselves.” Metal would produce a superficial image of war, so for this reason, a rock album is more fitting.

In general, the tempo of the music ranges from slow to mid-paced. True it is rather limited, but it is also necessary for the concept of this album. For songs like “Home Again” and “If I Were King” are rightfully slow-paced while songs like “A Dead Man’s Words” and “Man Down” are faster, but not to the point to deny the sense of realism. A musical aspect that appealed to me was the use of modes and exotic scales (particularly minor/major phrygian) to create the image of a dramatic war scene in the middle-east (which in my opinion was the primary thought in Tate’s mind). The use of saxophone played into this really well too. When noticed, the subtle details elevate the music to a new level.

However, the creativity of the band can no longer be expressed as freely as it once was due to the technical ability of the personnel. Geoff Tate (vocals) no longer has his massive 4-octave range – don’t smoke kids! – and cannot display his creativity as effectively for this reason. Tate is good, but no longer God. And the absence of lead/rhythm guitar from Chris DeGarmo is a huge blow to the line-up. Michael Wilton does a great job filling in, but DeGarmo is unique and irreplaceable. Scott Rockenfield performs well on the drums as usual and there are very groovy bass-lines from Eddie Jackson throughout. But overall, the band performance on this record does not meet the standards set by their previous albums.

In my overall opinion, every song on this album was good, about half of it was quite solid, and one song in particular (“Home Again”) was amazing. Though other than the one song, I do not see myself listening to the majority of the these songs a month later strictly for musical appreciation.  But there are other reasons for listening to (or buying) an album…

The Experience (rating: A+)

If I wanted to buy this album – I probably won’t, but if I wanted to – it would be because of the experience I got out of it. And you’re probably thinking to yourselves: “You can’t have an amazing album experience without amazing music! What a fucking idiot!” Well, the first part is false… The songs, in my opinion, were not pushed to the limits of musical creativity. But the lyrics, tone, context, and relevance add to the experience and feel without actually adding to the music itself. So basically, during my listen to this album, I was generally not truly gripped by the musical content. It was more by the vivid images and powerful emotions in combination with the thought lurking in the back of my mind that this is all real and in this life. As I finished listening to this album, I felt enlightened and gifted with a new appreciation for our soldiers. And moreover, I felt (to a certain extent) what it was like to walk in the boots of a soldier.

The album opens with “Sliver” a song about being torn down as a man and rebuilt as a soldier; a perfect way of introducing the listener to the concept. The following song, “Unafraid,” conveys how a soldier feels as an individual, and the song after that, “Hundred Mile Stare,” is about how a soldier feels as a part of an army. Now that the soldier inside has been unveiled, you’re ready to experience war.

The next handful of songs (“At 30,000 Ft,”  “A Dead Man’s Words,” “Killer,” and “Middle of Hell”) all bring you directly to the battlefield with striking lyrics. These four songs deal with feelings and experiences at the front.

The next two songs are about coping with changes as a result of being a soldier. “If I Were King” succeeds and shows what it’s like as a soldier to lose a friend in combat.  “Man Down” is about the struggle to adjust with society after all the horror and pain that one has undergone through war.

“Remember Me” and “Home Again” are the next two songs and both deal with a soldier longing for home. The former is about his love for his wife while the latter is about his yearning for his child. “Home Again,” in particular, overflowed with emotion due to the alternating vocals between Tate and his daughter throughout the song. Be sure to listen to this one!

Finally, the album ends with the song “The Voice,” which is about the soldier’s experience in his dying moments. The album could not have ended any other way. It was the perfect way of concluding the journey from man to soldier.

The Overall (rating: B+)

I thought the music was good, but unlike the experience, was not amazing. But the song of the soldier is hardly ever sung. Their bravery and sacrifice is highly under-appreciated. For this reason, I think it is crucial that this album runs through your ears.

So overall, I do not think this album is a must-buy, but I do think it is a must-hear. I do not think is stellar music, but I do think it is a stellar experience. Would I buy this album? Probably not. But it would be great to have if someone bought it for me… hint hint, guys…

If you’re from Pittsburgh and you support the amazing local music scene that this city has fostered…

See: Donora
Lohio
Br’er Fox

…you can understand why I’m going back to my ShowClix roots to plug a band from my own back yard.

The band’s called Red Light Crisis, and they’re a breathe of fresh air to a genre that’s seen the very worst of suburban white-boy rock.
Red Light Crisis’ latest incarnation consists of:
Jacob Mortimer – Vocals
Greg Moreira – Guitar
Erik Kerr – Drums
Kevin Dinello – Bass

Check out the Red Light Crisis MySpace page to hear some original songs.

But to understand the breadth of talent these guys have, you really should see them live. The sets seem constructed to highlight each member’s individual strength—from Greg absolutely killing it during his guitar solo on the cover of “Come Together,” to Kevin adding just enough funk to the baseline of an otherwise rocked-out revision of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition.” Erik Kerr exists in his own orbit when he’s behind his drums, and Jake commands the stage like a veteran (think one part Geoff Tate to two parts Mick Jagger). This band loves to perform, loves their music, and gives everything to their audience during a show.

As a fan of rock, you can’t ask for much more than that.

Yo to the Yo.  Let’s do some business up front.  Did you know that comedian/actor/author/genius Steve Martin plays the banjo?  Did you know that he’s releasing an album with some very talented guests?  Did you know that you can download a song from said album for free right here?  It’s a real deal bluegrass song, too.  Don’t expect laughs, just expect quality.  I’ve mentioned previously that Mastodon has a new record coming out in March and you can catch a glimpse of the artwork right here.  Even better, they’re giving a peek at the new single “Divinations” today as well.  Go here for that.

Now then.  We’re on the letter Q and surprisingly enough I’ve already featured Q bands Quasi and Queen on this blog and have given reference to Queens of the Stone Age on at least one occasion.  So that’s like at least two thirds of all Q bands available right there.  What are we left with?  Queensryche, of course!  And thank goodness, because I had wanted to write about them.  I picked up another copy of the group’s great 1990 album Empire sometime last year and it’s still just as good now as it was 18 years ago (God that makes me feel old. Wow.)  The production on this album sounds really good.  The guitars are crisp and full and everything sounds like it was given room to breathe.  Have another listen to the track “Jet City Woman.”  The opening bass line just sounds great and of course Geoff Tate’s vocals are in fine dramatic form as always:

And let’s not overlook the fact that Queensryche is a pretty awesome name for a hard rock band.  But you know what? It wasn’t the band’s original name.  Originally they were apparently called – get ready for this – the Mob.  How many different ways does that suck?  Jeez louise.  Thank God they changed it.  Of course, for many Queensryche’s ultimate accomplishment came with 1988’s epic concept album Operation Mindcrime.  I never exactly figured out the story of the record (not even upon seeing them perform it live in it’s entirety) but then I was still a kid and all I really cared about was that the tunes were good.  Here’s “Revolution Calling” and no, Heath, it has nothing to do with Ron Paul:

So, yeah.  There’s a doctor named X.  There’s a nun.  There’s some weird drug.  Needless to say, this example of actually putting thought into lyrics stood out a bit in the 80’s hair metal heyday.  And that might be why Queensryche is still going strong.  They even put out a sequel to Mindcrime in 2006! How impressive is that?  I haven’t heard any of it, but still….I’d like to.  They even put out an album of cover songs in 2007, which might normally be the nail in the coffin for most bands, but Queensryche’s already announced that their next concept album, American Soldier, will be out later this year.  So to take us out here’s the band’s cover of a song from Jesus Christ Superstar, of all things, off of Take Cover.  Enjoy:

Watch out for Dr. X.  More tomorrow…

Geoff Tate, American singer/musician (Queensrÿche)

 Queensrÿche – Take Hold Of The Flame – Live in Tokyo 1985

An absolutely indescribable performance by the progressive metal band Queensrÿche! It’s a shame that the lead singer, Geoff Tate, can no longer sing as beautifully as he once did. But in his prime, only a small handful of vocalists could match his talent.  His vocal range and control is mind-boggling; at 1:18, for example, he perfectly reaches and sustains the E5! Although tone quality is easily debatable, I’m quite confident it’s safe to say that Tate has among the cleanest, purest, recognizable tones in the music scene.  Excelling in every aspect of a vocalist (range, control, vibrato, phrasing, tone, etc.), the only thing he lacks is the recognition he deserves. But instrumental mastery is not the only component of a performance. Emotion is just as vital in a concert, and clearly Tate does not disappoint.  He is more than a flawless singer; he is a flawless performer. Disagree? Try finding anything wrong in that performance… Thought so

QUEENSRYCHE

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