Queensryche's The Verdict - Side Stage Magazine

For nearly 4 decades, Queensryche has been producing stellar metal music, earning themselves favor as musical legends. 16 full length albums later, Queensryche is still slaying. The Verdict is set to release March 1, 2019 despite the recent PledgeMusic obstacles the band has faced. Vocalist Todd La Torre states “I look forward to it no longer just belonging to just us, but belonging to the world.” In a recent facebook update, the band announced they are not letting PledgeMusic’s diverted payments stop them from this mission and is ready to share their new album with their dedicated fans, giving it a shared ownership.

Michael “Whip” Wilton, Queensryche guitarist, says “The Verdict is the most metal and the most progressive record we have made in a long time. I couldn’t possibly be more excited for everyone to hear this.” Working with producer Zeus, who’s worked with the likes of Rob Zombie and Hatebreed, The Verdict has such a great vibe that shows exactly why Queensryche has been on top for 36 years.

This album is one of those albums that’s so easy to listen to the whole thing on repeat for a few days. Each track is so diverse, they sound fresh every single listen.

The second track, “Man the Machine” was the first track that really stood out to me. The heavy guitar, with the complex solo midway through the song, and the varied melodies that show Todd’s vocal range was a great showcase to each band members talent. When I’m analyzing music, I like to listen for each individual instrument, and sometimes it’s not so easy. I especially appreciated this track, because the guitar stood out, and the drums stood out. Each instrument can be heard “separate, yet together” which, again, shows the talent and their perfect band chemistry.

“Inside Out” was another track I liked. It had a “hippy nostalgia” to it. It reminded me of some of Alice in Chains’ mellower songs, with its harmonious vocals and bending chords.

“Portrait” ends the album with a mellow vibe. I always love to hear heavy bands take softer approaches to music, so this was an easy favorite for me. This was another song that had that “hippy nostalgia” for me that made me imagine listening to it next to a lava lamp. The bass took center stage for this track, and with a bluesy guitar and Todd’s softer vocals, this track was so soothing to listen to.

I’m really looking forward to this release, and any fan is going to be thrilled with this album. As I mentioned earlier, it’s such a great listen, every track is so diverse, that’s it’s so easy to listen on repeat without getting old.

Immediately following their album release, Queensryche kicks off their spring tour with Fates Warning and The Cringe March 2. Head to their Facebook or their schedule, and pick up their new album!

https://www.facebook.com/QueensrycheOfficial

Track List