With Queensryche it is very tempting to take a closer look at Operation: Mindcrime or Empire. As those are the albums that propelled them into stardom.
But being the pigheaded guy that I am, I took this album out of the closet. First because I very much like the almost “science fiction” like production on it. Very modern for the time and a one off for the band. Second it is because I feel this album perfectly hints at the potential of the band. And last but not least it is because of the songs.
Things get started with Walk In The Shadows, which makes clear in which direction the band is developing. Compare this to their breakthrough albums! Next track I Dream In Infra Red, is one of those songs that slowly dawn on you and sink their teeth into your system. the clean guitar parts here would be revisited later a lot sound wise.
The Whisper is one of those eerie spooky tracks that you never get tired of. Brilliant riffs and backing vocals. Their version of Lisa Dalbello’s I´m Gonna Get Close To You is worth the price of this album on it’s own. How evil, how daring for a metal band.
And be assured, the album goes on with songs on par and thus stays the testament of a band on it’s way to it’s creative and commercial peak! As essential as their big sellers. Or is it just me?
