They made a strong impression at the end of the eighties and these americans overwhelms me again. ”The Verdict” is among the best I have heard in a long time. Absolutely no disappointments and this album appeals to new fans as well. For those who already are true QUEENSRYCHE fans you will love it. Here we find vibes from “Queensryche” (2013) and “Operation Mindcrime” (1988) for example. Past and present are woven together on a high level. This is art. A future classic is born.

Being on tour and seeing the fans reactions made them want to write music that sounds really good live. I truly believe they have succeeded and can imagine a performance of every tune from this production. Everything sounds genuinely QUEENSRYCHE. From Todd La Torres emphasis in the voice and sometimes the speaking voices in the background, that are typically special for this band, to a rich sound experience of the twin guitars. Michael Wilton and Parker Lundgren harmonise with each other and bring vivid tones. Joy spreads inside the listener when hearing something this well made and thought through. The whole creation is also progressive and interesting, which gives the melodies strength. Impressive and characteristic is also how Todd quickly can go up to the high vocal tones, to then round off with an even higher voice turn at the end.

Experimentation is heard for instance in the playful and slightly oriental introduction of "Inside Out", as well as from Eddie Jacksons cool bass tones through entire "Light-years".
Again I must praise La Torres excellent singing performance. An example is in "Bent", where he goes from a low tone and right up to the top from one second to another and just as quickly back again. Besides he is a skilled drummer and because Scott Rockenfield has taken a time-out, it was natural that Todd handled this during the recording of the album. Live we will see Casey Grillo (KAMELOT) behind the drums.

I personally thanked Parker for the fantastic “Where Dreams Go To Die” from 2013 and now he has done it again. This new material contains so many great tracks, but “Dark Reverie” is outstanding. An enormously strong song that has everything. Both lyrics and music are extraordinary. Pain, feelings, strength and a fighting spirit swirls up inside the listener. The guitarplaying increases and put everything in a spiral of stormy emotions. I am moved so deeply and others have also said that this one touches them. It is like getting power from a strong rocking feeling, but at the same time with tears in your eyes. This is a masterpiece.

Another brilliant composition is “Launder The Consience”, which has many variations. The drums are first restrained and then pumping. Fine tones come blended with powerful speed, speaking voices in the background and mystic atmosphere, as well as seriousness. When you think that the song is over, it takes another turn and continues for a while, which makes it very interesting.

The man behind the microphone likes to watch documentarys and gets inspired of them. Some of his reflections are written down as lyrics and it fits well to this groups spirit. They have always been aware of what is happening in society and all the injustices that exists.
Also some other emotional and personal stuff is included. Like poetry there is a basic meaning, but feel free to have your own thoughts about it.
Todd says: “Read between the lines” and “We leave room for interpretation”.

The frontcover artwork I think is really cool and apparently the idea came after some brainstorming together. Thoughts of humans behavior, morality and universe circulated along with “something is going to happen” and “for every action is a reaction”. Actually “The Verdict” is for you and me to decide what it will be.
After chaos comes peace and calm, which we will find on the backcover.

Once again the material is produced and mixed by Chris “Zeuss” Harris, as it was four years ago. According to La Torre this man hears changes in his head, picks up a guitar and also shows, instead of just telling an idea. Zeuss understands the legacy of QUEENSRYCHE, “his input is vital” and he brings out the heaviness.
All bandmembers have worked together on every song, feeling like a family.
They have proved themselves to be timeless and like Michael have said: “It’s about the musicianship, the songwriting, that desire to carry the torch when songs were put together by musicians, not machines.”
Wilton also let us know that the energy and enthusiasm from the first years are back and that they are already hungry for new songs.

Some recent words from QUEENSRYCHE: “We are very excited to be heading out to Europe again and are looking forward to seeing all our Rychers on the Verdict World Tour! Thank you for all your support and we hope to see you out there!”

A wonderful driving force is mixed with thoughtfulness and your own mind gets lively awake.
Like the blood runs through your veins, their music rushes around and serves a variety of emotions. Melancholy and seriousness, but at the same time an inner hope and strength. It feels like someone takes my hand and saves me.
Magnificent and simple at the same time. My inner unrest finds peace. (Anna)

Anzahl der Songs: 10
Spielzeit: 44:26 min
Label: Century Media
Veröffentlichungstermin: 01.03.2019

Bewertung:

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