Queensrÿche
Queen Of The Reich

THE REVIEW

Queen of the Reich is an EP with which the legendary band introduced itself to the public.

We begin with the eponymous opener, where we hear two guitars; one reverberates in the background, while the other forms a preliminary chord leading to a prolonged and rising high note by Geoff Tate; the change of pace is swift, introducing a melodic pattern with a driving rhythm composed of three verses, the last of which is crowned by powerful high notes. The effect achieved is a restless and frenetic vocal progression that runs throughout the song.

We then encounter 'Nightrider' which opens with a standard-speed bass and drums, and an agile rhythm guitar; the melodic pattern changes here, where the high notes are arranged in the chorus, while the verses are quietly led.

The following 'Blinded' opens with an increase in rhythm, which, however, does not exceed the boundaries of Heavy; Geoff emits several high notes and manages to carry them into vibrato, then leaving space for the solo guitar interlude, before returning multiple times to the high notes on a lyric.

We move on to 'The Lady Wore Black' notable for the substantial change in pace: slow, with the effect of wind blowing in the background, few notes, and Geoff starting supported to increase the range in the chorus. Overall, the melody is slow with brief intervals.

The next 'Prophecy' neither takes away nor adds.

Ultimately, this EP is composed of two melodic situations given by the opener and 'The Lady Wore Black', as well as tracks that support the sense of it. An album that features extensive use of rhythm guitars with slow chords. To date, there are various compilations, including 'Sign of the Times', where some of these songs are offered again with a more engaging mix, where Geoff Tate sings very well.