THE WARNING

This is Queensryche's first full length album, produced after their very successful EP. Where the EP had been written by the band members and singer Geoff Tate recruited to sing, this album includes Tate's hand in the songwriting. This introduces more theatrics, more experimentation, but also replaces balls- to-the-wall riffing with more mid-tempo darkness. Tate had been working in progressive rock bands and reportedly had not wanted to do straight metal, but agreed after the success of the EP. The resulting sound begins here and climaxes with the iconic Mindcrime. I have been extremely impressed with how good the early albums sound when I go back to review them.

First of all, the items that are not debated. Queensryche's sound is firmly based in 80's NWOBHM, most notably Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. Geoff Tate's voice reminds of Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford, and occasionally Ronnie James Dio, and easily matches or perhaps eclipses all of his influences. Most of all, this is VERY good 80's metal, standing up with Powerslave, Screaming for Vengeance, and or any work by Dio. The biggest lack on this particular album is the loss of a driving, ahead of the beat rocker like their namesake track.

Take Hold of the Flame, however, is an anthem of immense power that just smokes live. It's straightforward metal, but anyone who listens to that song and doesn't want to pump their fist, well, maybe they don't really get metal. NM 156 is the most progressive track, a mechanical vision of futuristic dystopia. Before the Storm also foresees progressiveness to come. But those looking for complex time signatures, rapid-fire mood changes or other prog-metal elements will be disappointed. The band does utilize many different 6/8 and other feels of 3 along with standard 4. The lyrical themes extend beyond most metal to a degree, but certainly aren't out of place in the genre.

All in all, this is a very good metal album by a young band that will improve on their next release (Rage for Order) and hit pure magic on the subsequent album. Warning is essential for Queensryche fans and recommended for metal fans in general.

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