QUEEN II

I gave this 5 stars for two reasons: This is one of Queens' greatest albums, ever, and this is probably one of their more progressive works!! Released in 1974 but recorded in 1973, this was never meant to be a concept album per-se, but their is an overall concept of good vs. evil. On the original vinyl, the sides were labeled Side White and Side Black, which was also carried through into the album sleeve, dark cover with a pure white gatefold. It's actually quite a stunning record to look at, including the rather glammed-up photo of the band dressed in all white. The cover of the album was later used as the opener to the "Bohemian Rhapsody" video.

"Some Day One Day" and "Funny How Love Is" are the two tracks that just don't seem to belong. Not terrible tracks in their own right, but lacking the mood of the other album material. The remainder of this album is just classic, showcasing the guitar virtuosity of Brian May on nearly every track and absolutely amazing vocal harmonies led by one of the world's greatest singers and performers, Freddie Mercury. Drummer Roger Taylor and bassist John Deacon hold down the fort with some amazing back-up, terribly underrated performers!!

Apart from those songs mentioned, their isn't a single slow moment left, ranging from the beautiful "White Queen" and the rocking "Father To Son" to the near metallic "Ogre Battle" and mellow "Nevermore." This all builds to the absolutely amazing cernterpiece of the album, the Freddie penned "March Of The Black Queen." The live shows from 1973 and 1974 showcased much of this material and that of their previous album and they sounded as amazing live as in the studio!!!

This is not only for fans of pop / rock / metal / glam...whatever?!!? There is something here for everyone, and if you believe yourself to truly understand the definiton of progressive and not just directly apply it to a King Crimson-like signature change, then you may really grow to love this album and have a much deeper appreciation for all music!!!

I will probably review every Queen album that shows up on here, so I better give you a small background on me first!! For those who think Queen is over and done with, washed-up, whatever the case may be, give them a chance. I'm only 25 years old, born the year Queen released "The Game." I'm seeing my first Queen show this year. I am one of the die-hards of this band!!!! If those people who hear "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" say "OOOhhhhhh, this is what Queen sounds like???" AND then immediately get turned off by the odd styles chosen for these songs...PLEASE give these guys a chance. Queen has so many different facets that you will never hear the same album repeated twice, they were always fresh, even during the 1980's and 90's! These guys were metal and rockibilly and pop, punk, glam, prog all rolled into one!!!! You will not be disappointed!!!!!

LONG LIVE QUEEN - MAY THEY FOREVER REIGN