Queensryche
If only all Seattle bands had been this good. Emerging before all
the grunge rock bands from Seattle, Queensryche put out a self titled album
in the 1983. They followed with seven more albums and then just faded
out of existence. Fronted by two incredible talents, this band's
fourth through sixth albums were artistic triumphs. Perhaps the most
popular among Queensryche fans is "Operation: Mindcrime." "Empire"
was next, and contained songs exploring aspects of the human condition
and criticizing certain aspects of society. After a four year hiatus,
"Promised Land" was released. This album is quite possibly a continuation
and conclusion of the story begun by "Operation: Mindcrime." Vocalist Geoff
Tate has an incredible voice --the best I've ever heard-- and can put lots
of feeling into to his lyrics. Chris DeGarmo, lead guitar, is an
excellent guitarist, whose playing amplifies the meaning of the lyrics
beautifully and whose solos are full of emotion and skill. These
two are complemented by three more than capable musicians: Michael Wilton
on guitar, Eddie Jackson on bass, and Scott Rockenfeld on drums.
After a 1997 album that was way below Queensryche standards, the band just
sort of faded into obscurity. I have heard that Chris DeGarmo joined
Jerry Cantrell's band (formerly Alice In Chains) to replace Layne Staley.
Discography: Click on the album cover pic to find out more about
the album.
"Queensryche"
(1983) 
"The
Warning" (1984)
"Rage
For Order" (1986) 
"Operation:
Mindcrime" (1988)
"Empire"
(1990) 
"Operation:
LIVEcrime"(1991)
"Promised
Land" (1994) 
"Here
in the Now Frontier" (1997)
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