Yup, absolutely have to listen to the entire album. Which, honestly, is a pretty big ask of somebody just so that they have context for how the album wrapped up. Thankfully, though, it is easily one of the best concept albums ever made if not the best. It is a hell of a story and also one hell of an outstanding collection of songs as well. It simply can't be recommended too much.
Geoff Tate has one of the best and unique voices in metal. One of the best live performances ever, imo, is Queensryche - Take Hold Of The Flame (live Tokyo 1984)
I was lucky enough to see them live twice in 1988. First in Fresno CA then at Day of the Green in Oakland. Oakland was Faith No More, Soundgarden, Queensryche and Metallica. Growing up in the 80's was epic!@@TheOneAndOnlyFloridaMan
Thanks for the video guys, this is the final song of Queensryche’s incredible concept album ‘Operation Mindcrime, one of the greatest albums of all time, with not a weak track on it. Geoff Tate’s voice is astounding!
That's right, there are many excellent rock and metal records (this is obviously highly subjective), but there are so few that practically do not have a single weak or even mediocre moment. One of these is Operation Mindcrime.
@@barsandbarbells2022 As others have mentioned, Operation Mindcrime is a classic concept album, you can find its story on wikipedia if you are interested. For another reaction video, I recommend the other official music video from the album: "I Don't Believe in Love". But if you like it, I think you should definitely listen to the whole thing "offline". :)
Operation: Mindcrime is a phenomenal concept album, and as mentioned, you were coming in at the end, which is why it was difficult to understand what he was singing about. I recommend it if you want to do a reaction to an entire album. It would be a fantastic option for that. Otherwise, there are great options from their Empire album. Jet City Woman, Another Rainy Night (Without You), and Anybody Listening are all fantastic. The lead singer, Geoff Tate, has some solo stuff. "Helpless" is criminally unknown, and highly recommended.
The entire album is basically one song. Every song flows into the next. Together they tell a story. Individually they're good songs. Together, they're a masterpiece.
Never ask a Queensryche fan about anything off this album unless you have some time to spare. Lots of details are about to be heading your way - lol As with everyone else - I highly recommend the whole album. Amazingly good and still relevent, even after all these years.
@@kevinbrown9831 on a good day, I would too, but yesterday was a busy one. Didn't have the 60+minutes requried to commit to educate and debate. I have full confidence my fellow obsessors will take up the reins for all of us.
Greatest concept album ever in my opinion. If you want to know the story you start at the beginning and then you’ll listen to it again picking up on things you missed the 1st time through. Characters: Nikki, Dr.X, Father William, and sister Mary, and society. Pamela Moore did a great job as sister Mary on their tour btw
Guitarist/Songwriter/Backing vocalist... They were one of my favourite bands 1986-1993. I lost interest in Queensryche after he left... No real idea what happened with him but their music was never as good without him...
Well Bar and Bar the people have spoken, TAKE HOLD OF THE FLAME 🔥 Live in Tokyo 1984 which is a song off of the WARNING album one of my favorite all time's. The other album EMPIRE any or every song on that would channel, Heart , Mind and Soul well!!! Great Channel Guys!! Peace 🕊️☮️♾️😎
Listening to this song without listening to the rest of the album is like watching Harry Potter for the first time but starting with the last movie lol it’s a great album. I’d recommend checking out the entire album. And of course the 1984 live version of take hold of the flame. Geoff kills it so does the rest of the band!
This. Take Hold of the Flame will forever change your relationship with what you think great live music is. You really need to listen to the live Tokyo version -- and remember this song was at the very end of a live performance.
A great Queensryche song. The best thing to do is the entire Operation Mindcrime album that tells a complete story. This song just one of the songs from that album. To hear the full abilities of the singer Geoff Tate the one to do is Take Hold of the Flame [Live in Tokyo 1984/08/05]
Thank you for the video. You guys should listen to the full album. “ Operation Mind Crime.” If you do you’ll the entire story. In my opinion it’s one of the best concept alum of all time.
The first concert I ever saw was 1989 Queensrÿche opened for Metallica. They were on the Mindcrime album, and Metallica was on the and Justice for all tour.
Geoff Tate's range and falsetto drive their music so well. What a perfect fit!! His vocals are fire. This whole group was great! And this is a killer album...So is Empire
This was a climax for their concept album, Operation Mindcrime, that whole album is worth a listen and quite the dystopian story, I saw it live, It freaked us out, great show. Try from their first Amazing show in Japan in the 80s, their classic tune Take Hold of the Flame, it is a great banger and some of Geoff Tate' s best vocals. They are a great band, I saw them 6 times, always a great show. Enjoy. 🎵🎸🎤🎸🎶
Their album Operation Mindcrime is their masterpiece when they were at the height of their powers. Not a bad song on the album and very satisfying. Also, as some commenters below mentioned definitely check out their 1984 live in Tokyo Take Hold of the Flame. It's a must and is just killer. Geoff Tate was on fire and you'll see his incredible range and stage presence if full bloom.
From ‘82-‘90 (5 studio albums (one EP - 1)Queensryche (EP - self titled debut), 2 The Warning, 3) Rage For Order 4) Operation Mindcrime, 5) Empire These are considered by many to be the classic era of the band
I saw them open for Def Leppard in 1988. "Eyes of a Stranger" is the final track on the album and is like reading the last chapter in a book. You won't be able to understand the song until you hear the full album. The actors in the video are depicting the characters in the story of the concept album. This is a rock opera. After reacting to "I Believe in Love" it would be worth listening to the full album to experience the complete story.
Hi Phil and Sam! Another outstanding choice, continually uploading the best of the best. Queensryche Operation Mindcrime is one of the classics that IMO needs to be listened to from beginning to end, like Dark Side of the Moon, etc. Geoff Tate has an amazing range. Thanks! Peace ✌️ ☮️ 🎵🎶🎸🇺🇸❤️
Yep, these were one of the Godfathers of prog metal. Metal started splintering off and evolving at this point. It was still a valid musical genre at the time. Please try "I don't believe in love" off this album. it's amazing.
This was the final track from Queensryche's 1988 concept album 'Operation: Mindcrime'... It basically concludes the story w/ the fate of the main character 'Nicky'... It became Queensryche's first platinum selling record as the band opened for Metallica in 1989. The story of 'Operation: Mindcrime' takes place in the era of Reagan's America ... 'Nicky' is a disillusioned young man who falls prey to he+++n addiction and is hired by a sinister figure named 'Dr. X' as a hitman to eliminate certain religious and political figures in exchange for drugs... 'Nicky' is introduced to 'Sister Mary', a former prostitute-turned-nun, who acts as his caretaker/ supplier and uses drugs w/ him (Her joining the Catholic church just exposes her to new abusers) Eventually, Nicky and Sister Mary become lovers, and Dr. X notices... he orders Nicky to kill Sister Mary and her priest to eliminate his ties to Nicky and the hit jobs... Nicky confronts Sister Mary, but is unable to kill her - and that track on the album is an epic duet w/ Queensryche's Geoff Tate and female singer Pamela Moore (as Sister Mary) - 'Suite Sister Mary'. Nicky tells Dr. X that he's done w/ the jobs... but he returns home to find Sister Mary dead ... and police are closing in on him. It's a worthy album... every song is killer. Former Queensryche vocalist Geoff Tate attempted to write a sequel in 2006 - 'Operation: Mindcrime II'... but he used studio musicians on that Queensryche album instead of the band (They did the live album 'Mindcrime at the Moore') ...That took place in the W. Bush era America, where 'Nicky' is released from prison after 18 years and plans his revenge on 'Dr. X'... Pamela Moore would voice the 'ghost' of Sister Mary in Nicky's mind.... But the sequel album did not have the same success as the 1988 original.
It’s a great song, but another vote for do the whole of Operation: Mindcrime. All the tracks are great and you need to listen to them back to back to get the story. I saw the Mindcrime tour and it’s in my best five concerts ever.
You cannot find a bad Queensryche song on any of there albums.. there like led zeppelin..fantastic vocals..excellent guitars...drums are sick...1984 live Tokyo.. you will be blown away
It's been said, but I'm gonna hammer it in... Take hold of the flame (live in Tokyo)! Operation Mindcrime is brilliant from end to end and worthy of a video in it's entirety. The album Empire as well. Geoff is my favorite vocalist, hands down.
This is the last chapter of the story of Nikki. Great album, this song/video was my introduction to them and I live in Seattle. I bought all the albums...up to Now in ..Saw them at the Moore. Great show.
OPERATION LIVECRIME: - [ ] I saw Queensryche on this tour! I play drums and Scott Rockingfield is one of my favorite drummers of all time! I even got my double bass TAMAS and Zildjian cymbals in the same configuration and I have chains ⛓ stands to hang my cymbals!
Their first album was intended to be a concept album inspired by George Orwells' 1984. Released in 1984! The mix engineer messed the song order up. Thus the name of the next album: Rage For order. My suggestion: NM 156 from the messed up order album Warning.
He is referencing Sister Mary when he sings: “rosary wrapped around ur throat” “memories of what we had and what we knew” “I c something that reminds me of u” “I c ur face looking back at me”.
Queensryche are from Seattle... They were inspired by metal bands like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden and wanted that brand of technical heavy metal w/ high, operatic vocals... Geoff Tate (vocals) joined the band and did their demos, which became the 1983 'Queensryche' EP... Queensryche's main songwriter was Chris DeGarmo (guitar) who formed the band w/ stellar local musicians - Michael 'Whip' Wilton (guitar), Eddie Jackson (bass) and Scott Rockenfield (drums). Queensryche were signed by Iron Maiden's UK label EMI and had a 'glam' image between 1984 and 1987... but they were a darker, polished heavy metal band... First album 'The Warning' was promising in 1984, but failed commercially... 2nd album 'Rage for order' (1986) was futuristic w/ electronic sounds. Geoff Tate was inspired to write a concept album based on certain characters he had met on tour... the 1988 album 'Operation: Mindcrime' became a platinum hit and made Queensryche an international success by 1989... Chris DeGarmo wanted a more accessible record next and the band released 'Empire' in 1990... it sold 3x platinum and Queensryche were actually bigger than Iron Maiden and Judas Priest for a while. The ballad single 'Silent lucidity' became a huge pop hit off the 'Empire' album. However, the touring took a toll on the band and after taking a break, Queensryche returned in 1994 w/ 'Promised land'... a dark, mostly acoustic album that lamented the pitfalls of fame... It sold platinum in the 90's grunge era. Chris DeGarmo wanted a more stripped-down Queensryche album in 1997 - 'Hear in the now frontier'... but fans were upset because it sounded like a 'grunge rock' record. It sold poorly and Queensryche saw a collapse - their label folded in '97... the tour only lasted a few months and in the end, Chris DeGarmo announced that he was leaving the band. Geoff Tate opted to carry Queensryche to the next phase... Kelly Gray (guitar) initially replaced DeGarmo for the album 'Q2K' in 1999, but Queensryche struggled to find the same level of success... Gray was out of the band by 2002... Mike Stone (guitar) joined for a few years... but Queensryche had strayed away from heavy metal and were releasing rather shaky albums by 2009 and the band members had been replaced by studio musicians on the records by Tate & his manager-wife... In 2012, Geoff Tate was fired after an altercation on tour w/ the band. Queensryche hired a younger vocalist Todd LaTorre and built their fanbase back up by returning to their heavy metal roots in the last decade... Unfortunately, drummer Scott Rockenfield left the band in 2017... leaving only guitarist Michael Wilton and bassist Eddie Jackson as the original members... Casey Grillo (ex- Kamelot) joined on drums... Guitarist Mike Stone returned in 2021. Queensryche 'hits' include - "I don't believe in love" ... 'Empire' ... 'Anybody listening?' ... 'Jet city woman' ... 'I am I' ... 'Walk in the shadows'... 'Sign of the times'... 'Queen of the reich' ... 'Take hold of the flame'... 'Right side of my mind'... 🤘🤘 Some of my fave Queensryche songs - 'The lady wore black' ... 'En force' ... 'London' ... 'Speak' ... 'Resistance' ... 'Damaged'... 🔥🔥
Hells Yeah! Fabulous Choice! These guys did blow us away when they hit the scene. Geoff Tate is one "Great Ones" Jet City Woman & Another Rainy Night you both would love! This guy, Sebastian Bach, Axl Rose, Mike Patton, Steve Perry, Robert Plant, Rob Halford & Michael Kiske are in this club. Really enjoyed this. Thank You Peace
it's about a man that is on drugs in love with a nun the album tells a story check out killing words and i will remember both on Mtv unplugged the lady wore black and take hold of the flame live in Tokyo queensryche was in a league of their own that great of a bad 🤘
Y’all should definitely check out the songs “Walk in The Shadows” and “Breaking The Silence” next!! Such a great band you’ll continue to like the more you explore their discography.. especially stuff from their first 4 albums🤘🏻
Queensryche (original lineup) have no equal imo! I could (and have many times) go on and ON about how GOOD they are!! But I'll just say, consider blocking out an hour or so and listen to the whole album, in sequence, with the lyrics in front of you. You will thank me afterwards. I've been listening to this album for over 3 decades and it never gets old! Ive seen them live and met them many times, and I can't say how immpessed I was by all of them. Their concerts are, hands down, the absolute best I've ever seen! Many have suggested in the comments to check out "Take Hold of the Flame" live in Tokyo 1984. I concur! It's pretty spectacular! Very diverse band. The original line up was pure MAGIC! I enjoyed both your comments and observations, some of which were accurate even though you hadnt heard the whole story.. I hope you'll dive into them some more! P.S. For the full awesome ending of this song (they cut it short for thevideo) listen to the CD. Also there's live footage thats really good too! Epic song to end an epic story!
Listening to one track on this album is like picking up a new book and starting off at chapter 14. This album deserves a FULL play through because it tells a whole story. Mindcrime is one of the most important concept-style albums of all time. Right up there with King Diamond, etc.
This a prime example of what's missing from the music today, an album that has story and still wholes up with what's out today. I would recommend react to whole album Operation Mind Crime
Too many great songs walk in the shadows don't believe in love operation mind crime revolution calling basically albums The warning, rage for order, mindcrime every song killer
10 месяцев назад+4
My first Progressive Metal idols. I saw them live during the best era in 1984 and 1992. On November 23rd I'm going to see Geoff Tate (the singer) live here in my hometown Gävle (Sweden) in a small venue. It's going to be awesome to see and hear him in a more intimate setting and hear some old Queensryche songs. Queensryche is also a big influence for bands like Dream Theater who are my all-time Progressive Metal idols.
Queensryche is one of the most influential progressive heavy metal bands of the 80s, bands like Dream Theater have a great influence from them, on the other hand, their vocalist Geoff Tate is simply a beast like singer, his vocal range is impressive. To understand this song well you must listen to the entire album, since it is a conceptual work, that is, it would be like reading a book. Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime 1988. AWESOME! \m/
I was just sitting here watching this wondering what it would be like to listen to the last song of a concept album and try to figure it out. Would be near impossible for sure. Was my favorite album for 30 years.
The song deals with three different topics. First is social anxiety, "People are always afraid of - the eyes of a stranger" since we never truly know anyone, and meeting people we don't know can be fearful. Especially strangers in public. The second topic is, introspective. The duality of oneself. As we go through life we change. The experiences we have, friendships we make, all drive who we become. "As I raise my head and stare - into the eyes of a stranger" He's looking at his reflection and realizing that he doesn't recognize who he's become. Think of it like this, have you sold out how you were for who you are now? The third topic is good verses bad, Holly verses Evil. His girlfriend (the Nun) represents innocence, love and good. The Docter/ Older Mentor represents temptation, anger and bad. The line "Is this all that's left for me - straight jacket memories and sedative highs" is the result of him giving into the temptation and anger. The lyric "all I want is the same as everyone - why am I here and for how long?" can be interpreted both as littoral and philosophical. Literally, what did I do and how long am I here for? Philosophically, why do I exist and how long will I live? The next song I would recommend would be "I don't believe in love" it is a continuation of "eyes of a stranger" At least that's how I've always interpreted these two songs.
I considered recommending it with the statement, "and for something completely different...". It is easily their softest song, and so different from the rest of what they do that it is the only Queensryche song that a lot of people (who don't like metal) know or like.
Heart and Queensryche are my favorite bands from Seattle. Went to see them live in concert during their best tours. A few bands became popular in the 90s but these are my top favorites.
One of the great vocalists of all time. They were a pretty big group in the mid-80s through the early nineties. They have a ton of great songs and official videos on Operation Mindcrime, which this song is from. Silent Lucidity is a great song off of their biggest album Empire... very soft and different from this one. Other great songs are Best I Can, Jet City Woman, Anybody Listening? Suite Sister Mary, I Don't Believe in Love, The Lady Wore Black,, Take Hold of the Flame( with everybody reacts to but the video/audio quality is poor) etc etc...many more You started off with a great choice...this was always one of their encores.
Geoff Tate/Chris DeGArmo are untouchable. Everything they wrote with the rest of this line-up is 🎶 MUSICALLY 🎵 awesome. I'm not afraid to say, "they are the GREATEST prog-metal band ever"! 🤘listen to more QUEENSRYCHE!!
One of my favorite albums ever and the song that culmination of the entire album...and what an album. This album is a story song after song is a chapter. Why do we always turn away from the eyes of a stranger? Go back and listen to the whole thing in and you'll realize the vocal range of Geoff Tate and the amazing concept of the album.
As others have said, you have to listen to the entire album to really appreciate what this song is about. One of the greatest concept albums ever
Yeah start to finish you have to listen to the entire album. "Mindcrime" absolute masterpiece
I concur wholeheartedly. A game changing album.
Yup, absolutely have to listen to the entire album. Which, honestly, is a pretty big ask of somebody just so that they have context for how the album wrapped up.
Thankfully, though, it is easily one of the best concept albums ever made if not the best. It is a hell of a story and also one hell of an outstanding collection of songs as well. It simply can't be recommended too much.
With the passion in this song? Nah, most people I know were hook line and sinker with this alone.
The storyline is probably more relevant today than it was when the album was released.
This song is from the concept album "Operation Mindcrime". It's toward the end of the story and our main character has ended up in a mental hospital.
...for the criminally insane.
Geoff Tate has one of the best and unique voices in metal. One of the best live performances ever, imo, is Queensryche - Take Hold Of The Flame (live Tokyo 1984)
Totally a performance they need to check out!
I was lucky enough to see them live twice in 1988. First in Fresno CA then at Day of the Green in Oakland. Oakland was Faith No More, Soundgarden, Queensryche and Metallica. Growing up in the 80's was epic!@@TheOneAndOnlyFloridaMan
Yes, absolutely. Do yourself a huge favor and check out “Take Hold Of The Flame”, live in Tokyo!!!! Absolutely superb.
Thanks for the video guys, this is the final song of Queensryche’s incredible concept album ‘Operation Mindcrime, one of the greatest albums of all time, with not a weak track on it. Geoff Tate’s voice is astounding!
That's right, there are many excellent rock and metal records (this is obviously highly subjective), but there are so few that practically do not have a single weak or even mediocre moment. One of these is Operation Mindcrime.
Operation Mindcrime was their masterpiece.@@80s_kid
Guess we'll need to check out more 🤔
@@barsandbarbells2022 As others have mentioned, Operation Mindcrime is a classic concept album, you can find its story on wikipedia if you are interested. For another reaction video, I recommend the other official music video from the album: "I Don't Believe in Love". But if you like it, I think you should definitely listen to the whole thing "offline". :)
Operation: Mindcrime is a phenomenal concept album, and as mentioned, you were coming in at the end, which is why it was difficult to understand what he was singing about. I recommend it if you want to do a reaction to an entire album. It would be a fantastic option for that. Otherwise, there are great options from their Empire album. Jet City Woman, Another Rainy Night (Without You), and Anybody Listening are all fantastic.
The lead singer, Geoff Tate, has some solo stuff. "Helpless" is criminally unknown, and highly recommended.
The entire album is basically one song. Every song flows into the next. Together they tell a story. Individually they're good songs. Together, they're a masterpiece.
Never ask a Queensryche fan about anything off this album unless you have some time to spare. Lots of details are about to be heading your way - lol As with everyone else - I highly recommend the whole album. Amazingly good and still relevent, even after all these years.
So true
I'm one
@@kevinbrown9831 on a good day, I would too, but yesterday was a busy one. Didn't have the 60+minutes requried to commit to educate and debate. I have full confidence my fellow obsessors will take up the reins for all of us.
The song I don't believe in love is a great song by them
It is, but also off of this same album. It's a little easier to relate to without knowing the background story, but works best with it.
Revolution calling is my favorite
Greatest concept album ever in my opinion. If you want to know the story you start at the beginning and then you’ll listen to it again picking up on things you missed the 1st time through. Characters: Nikki, Dr.X, Father William, and sister Mary, and society.
Pamela Moore did a great job as sister Mary on their tour btw
Agree 100% ! I saw the Operation Mindcrime tour back in the early 90s. It was an amazing show. So glad I was able to see it live!
@@ldavis8145took my stepdaughter to see it she says it’s the best concert she’s been to 1 the music and 2 the theatrics
YES!!
Spreading the Disease and Suite Sister Mary are my 2 favorite songs of this album.
The album Operation Mindcrime tells a story from start to finish. A rock opera. The whole album is fire.
Hell yeah. 1988 , the Third Album but this was their Breakthrough ⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
DeGarmo is one of the most underrated guitarists... PERIOD!
And backing vocalist also!
And lyricists too.
Damn frickin' straight.
Guitarist/Songwriter/Backing vocalist... They were one of my favourite bands 1986-1993. I lost interest in Queensryche after he left... No real idea what happened with him but their music was never as good without him...
@@sedgeseymour9208 I think the road was too hard on him and his family. He decided to go after his second love, Flying. Now he flies corporate jets.
Well Bar and Bar the people have spoken, TAKE HOLD OF THE FLAME 🔥 Live in Tokyo 1984 which is a song off of the WARNING album one of my favorite all time's. The other album EMPIRE any or every song on that would channel, Heart , Mind and Soul well!!! Great Channel Guys!! Peace 🕊️☮️♾️😎
The only way you'll truly understand the lyrics is by reacting to the entire album from the beginning (hint, hint)😃
Listening to this song without listening to the rest of the album is like watching Harry Potter for the first time but starting with the last movie lol it’s a great album. I’d recommend checking out the entire album. And of course the 1984 live version of take hold of the flame. Geoff kills it so does the rest of the band!
Greatest concept album in rock. The original line-up of Queensryche was completely amazing.
this and Pink Floyds theWall
As others have mentioned, check out some earlier stuff like Take Hold of the Flame - Live in Tokyo.
The thinking mans metal band. Loved them in the 80's! A MUST reaction: Take Hold of The Flame, Live Tokyo.
This. Take Hold of the Flame will forever change your relationship with what you think great live music is. You really need to listen to the live Tokyo version -- and remember this song was at the very end of a live performance.
Take hold of the flame live 1984 incredible
Do( take hold of the flame) . Unbelievable vocal range . You will not be disappointed
The whole album is great one of the best metal albums of the 80’s in my opinion!
Or at least, one of the most important for the expansion of what metal can be...
Revolution Calling by Queensryche! 😎🔥🤘🎸
To listen to this album is to experience genius.
A great Queensryche song. The best thing to do is the entire Operation Mindcrime album that tells a complete story. This song just one of the songs from that album.
To hear the full abilities of the singer Geoff Tate the one to do is Take Hold of the Flame [Live in Tokyo 1984/08/05]
Totally agree that the Tokyo live version of Take Hold of the Flame is just killer. Geoff was at the height of his powers vocally. It's a must watch.
One of two very important metal bands of the ‘80’s (include Empire released in 1990). Great great band - lovely!
Thank you for the video. You guys should listen to the full album. “ Operation Mind Crime.” If you do you’ll the entire story. In my opinion it’s one of the best concept alum of all time.
The first concert I ever saw was 1989 Queensrÿche opened for Metallica. They were on the Mindcrime album, and Metallica was on the and Justice for all tour.
This band was so technically sound. They exemplified professionalism. Very inspiring.
Queensryche formed in 1982. Geoff Tate has an amazing vocal range. So many good songs to choose.
Listen to Take Hold of The Flame, Live from Tokyo 1984, Geoff Tate is an incredible voice
Take Hold Of The Flame (Live Tokyo 1984 or 1985) by Queensryche! 😎🔥🤘🎸
"Take Hold of the Flame" live in Tokyo 1985 I think? Would be a great song to react to!!!🎤🎸🎶🤘🤘
Geoff Tate's range and falsetto drive their music so well. What a perfect fit!! His vocals are fire. This whole group was great! And this is a killer album...So is Empire
That’s real voice sir. He just has an insane range!
You should listen to the full album. One of the best prog metal in the 80's. ❤🎸🤘
This was a climax for their concept album, Operation Mindcrime, that whole album is worth a listen and quite the dystopian story, I saw it live, It freaked us out, great show. Try from their first Amazing show in Japan in the 80s, their classic tune Take Hold of the Flame, it is a great banger and some of Geoff Tate' s best vocals. They are a great band, I saw them 6 times, always a great show. Enjoy. 🎵🎸🎤🎸🎶
Do yourself a favor and watch " the live version of Take Hold of the Flame". Awesome vocals
Their album Operation Mindcrime is their masterpiece when they were at the height of their powers. Not a bad song on the album and very satisfying. Also, as some commenters below mentioned definitely check out their 1984 live in Tokyo Take Hold of the Flame. It's a must and is just killer. Geoff Tate was on fire and you'll see his incredible range and stage presence if full bloom.
From ‘82-‘90 (5 studio albums (one EP - 1)Queensryche (EP - self titled debut), 2 The Warning, 3) Rage For Order 4) Operation Mindcrime, 5) Empire
These are considered by many to be the classic era of the band
I saw them open for Def Leppard in 1988. "Eyes of a Stranger" is the final track on the album and is like reading the last chapter in a book. You won't be able to understand the song until you hear the full album. The actors in the video are depicting the characters in the story of the concept album. This is a rock opera. After reacting to "I Believe in Love" it would be worth listening to the full album to experience the complete story.
Man I love this album, what an incredible accomplishment
Hi Phil and Sam! Another outstanding choice, continually uploading the best of the best. Queensryche Operation Mindcrime is one of the classics that IMO needs to be listened to from beginning to end, like Dark Side of the Moon, etc. Geoff Tate has an amazing range. Thanks! Peace ✌️ ☮️ 🎵🎶🎸🇺🇸❤️
Yep, these were one of the Godfathers of prog metal. Metal started splintering off and evolving at this point. It was still a valid musical genre at the time. Please try "I don't believe in love" off this album. it's amazing.
This album is a great road trip one to play great concept
This was the final track from Queensryche's 1988 concept album 'Operation: Mindcrime'... It basically concludes the story w/ the fate of the main character 'Nicky'... It became Queensryche's first platinum selling record as the band opened for Metallica in 1989.
The story of 'Operation: Mindcrime' takes place in the era of Reagan's America ... 'Nicky' is a disillusioned young man who falls prey to he+++n addiction and is hired by a sinister figure named 'Dr. X' as a hitman to eliminate certain religious and political figures in exchange for drugs... 'Nicky' is introduced to 'Sister Mary', a former prostitute-turned-nun, who acts as his caretaker/ supplier and uses drugs w/ him (Her joining the Catholic church just exposes her to new abusers)
Eventually, Nicky and Sister Mary become lovers, and Dr. X notices... he orders Nicky to kill Sister Mary and her priest to eliminate his ties to Nicky and the hit jobs... Nicky confronts Sister Mary, but is unable to kill her - and that track on the album is an epic duet w/ Queensryche's Geoff Tate and female singer Pamela Moore (as Sister Mary) - 'Suite Sister Mary'.
Nicky tells Dr. X that he's done w/ the jobs... but he returns home to find Sister Mary dead ... and police are closing in on him.
It's a worthy album... every song is killer.
Former Queensryche vocalist Geoff Tate attempted to write a sequel in 2006 - 'Operation: Mindcrime II'... but he used studio musicians on that Queensryche album instead of the band (They did the live album 'Mindcrime at the Moore') ...That took place in the W. Bush era America, where 'Nicky' is released from prison after 18 years and plans his revenge on 'Dr. X'... Pamela Moore would voice the 'ghost' of Sister Mary in Nicky's mind.... But the sequel album did not have the same success as the 1988 original.
It’s a great song, but another vote for do the whole of Operation: Mindcrime. All the tracks are great and you need to listen to them back to back to get the story. I saw the Mindcrime tour and it’s in my best five concerts ever.
You cannot find a bad Queensryche song on any of there albums.. there like led zeppelin..fantastic vocals..excellent guitars...drums are sick...1984 live Tokyo.. you will be blown away
You need to listen to the entire album to have a better understanding. I love Ryche
I Don't Believe In Love by Queensryche! 😎🔥🤘🎸
Another Rainy Night (Without You) by Queensryche! 😎🔥🤘🎸
It's been said, but I'm gonna hammer it in... Take hold of the flame (live in Tokyo)! Operation Mindcrime is brilliant from end to end and worthy of a video in it's entirety. The album Empire as well. Geoff is my favorite vocalist, hands down.
Take Hold of the Flame, Live in Tokyo.
This is the last chapter of the story of Nikki. Great album, this song/video was my introduction to them and I live in Seattle. I bought all the albums...up to Now in ..Saw them at the Moore. Great show.
Best live band mid 80's no question by the 90's and shined.
OPERATION LIVECRIME:
- [ ] I saw Queensryche on this tour! I play drums and Scott Rockingfield is one of my favorite drummers of all time! I even got my double bass TAMAS and Zildjian cymbals in the same configuration and I have chains ⛓ stands to hang my cymbals!
As the other comments said do a deep dive and do the whole album (live if possible) it's one of the best concept albums ever!!!
The song still hits hard after all these years.
If you enjoyed this you definitely should check out some Dream Theater.
Queen of the Ryche is a good early tune that many of us grew up on.
Take Hold of the Flame!
Take hold of the flame next please!
Watch live from Tokyo ••• Take hold of the flame❤
Watching this video first is like reading the last chapter of a good novel first.
Totally agree, you have to listen to the whole album tells an amazing story. And the entire Empire album is awesome
Their first album was intended to be a concept album inspired by George Orwells' 1984. Released in 1984! The mix engineer messed the song order up. Thus the name of the next album: Rage For order. My suggestion: NM 156 from the messed up order album Warning.
You are really that person! Admitting it finally!
It's also a slightly shortened version for MTV.
Queensryche "take hold of the flame" love from Japan 1984. Nothing else needs to be said
Live, not love
He is referencing Sister Mary when he sings:
“rosary wrapped around ur throat”
“memories of what we had and what we knew”
“I c something that reminds me of u”
“I c ur face looking back at me”.
Queensryche are from Seattle... They were inspired by metal bands like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden and wanted that brand of technical heavy metal w/ high, operatic vocals... Geoff Tate (vocals) joined the band and did their demos, which became the 1983 'Queensryche' EP... Queensryche's main songwriter was Chris DeGarmo (guitar) who formed the band w/ stellar local musicians - Michael 'Whip' Wilton (guitar), Eddie Jackson (bass) and Scott Rockenfield (drums).
Queensryche were signed by Iron Maiden's UK label EMI and had a 'glam' image between 1984 and 1987... but they were a darker, polished heavy metal band... First album 'The Warning' was promising in 1984, but failed commercially... 2nd album 'Rage for order' (1986) was futuristic w/ electronic sounds.
Geoff Tate was inspired to write a concept album based on certain characters he had met on tour... the 1988 album 'Operation: Mindcrime' became a platinum hit and made Queensryche an international success by 1989... Chris DeGarmo wanted a more accessible record next and the band released 'Empire' in 1990... it sold 3x platinum and Queensryche were actually bigger than Iron Maiden and Judas Priest for a while. The ballad single 'Silent lucidity' became a huge pop hit off the 'Empire' album.
However, the touring took a toll on the band and after taking a break, Queensryche returned in 1994 w/ 'Promised land'... a dark, mostly acoustic album that lamented the pitfalls of fame... It sold platinum in the 90's grunge era. Chris DeGarmo wanted a more stripped-down Queensryche album in 1997 - 'Hear in the now frontier'... but fans were upset because it sounded like a 'grunge rock' record. It sold poorly and Queensryche saw a collapse - their label folded in '97... the tour only lasted a few months and in the end, Chris DeGarmo announced that he was leaving the band.
Geoff Tate opted to carry Queensryche to the next phase... Kelly Gray (guitar) initially replaced DeGarmo for the album 'Q2K' in 1999, but Queensryche struggled to find the same level of success... Gray was out of the band by 2002... Mike Stone (guitar) joined for a few years... but Queensryche had strayed away from heavy metal and were releasing rather shaky albums by 2009 and the band members had been replaced by studio musicians on the records by Tate & his manager-wife... In 2012, Geoff Tate was fired after an altercation on tour w/ the band.
Queensryche hired a younger vocalist Todd LaTorre and built their fanbase back up by returning to their heavy metal roots in the last decade... Unfortunately, drummer Scott Rockenfield left the band in 2017... leaving only guitarist Michael Wilton and bassist Eddie Jackson as the original members... Casey Grillo (ex- Kamelot) joined on drums... Guitarist Mike Stone returned in 2021.
Queensryche 'hits' include - "I don't believe in love" ... 'Empire' ... 'Anybody listening?' ... 'Jet city woman' ... 'I am I' ... 'Walk in the shadows'... 'Sign of the times'... 'Queen of the reich' ... 'Take hold of the flame'... 'Right side of my mind'... 🤘🤘
Some of my fave Queensryche songs - 'The lady wore black' ... 'En force' ... 'London' ... 'Speak' ... 'Resistance' ... 'Damaged'... 🔥🔥
Hells Yeah! Fabulous Choice! These guys did blow us away when they hit the scene. Geoff Tate is one "Great Ones" Jet City Woman & Another Rainy Night you both would love! This guy, Sebastian Bach, Axl Rose, Mike Patton, Steve Perry, Robert Plant, Rob Halford & Michael Kiske are in this club. Really enjoyed this. Thank You Peace
it's about a man that is on drugs in love with a nun the album tells a story check out killing words and i will remember both on Mtv unplugged the lady wore black and take hold of the flame live in Tokyo queensryche was in a league of their own that great of a bad 🤘
Y’all should definitely check out the songs “Walk in The Shadows” and “Breaking The Silence” next!! Such a great band you’ll continue to like the more you explore their discography.. especially stuff from their first 4 albums🤘🏻
Queensryche (original lineup) have no equal imo! I could (and have many times) go on and ON about how GOOD they are!! But I'll just say, consider
blocking out an hour or so and listen to the whole album, in sequence, with the lyrics in front of you. You will thank me afterwards. I've been listening to this album for over 3 decades and it never gets old! Ive seen them live and met them many times, and I can't say how immpessed I was by all of them. Their concerts are, hands down, the absolute best I've ever seen!
Many have suggested in the comments to check out "Take Hold of the Flame" live in Tokyo 1984. I concur! It's pretty spectacular! Very diverse band. The original line up was pure MAGIC! I enjoyed both your comments and observations, some of which were accurate even though you hadnt heard the whole story.. I hope you'll dive into them some more!
P.S. For the full awesome ending of this song (they cut it short for thevideo) listen to the CD. Also there's live footage thats really good too! Epic song to end an epic story!
Listening to one track on this album is like picking up a new book and starting off at chapter 14. This album deserves a FULL play through because it tells a whole story. Mindcrime is one of the most important concept-style albums of all time. Right up there with King Diamond, etc.
Wonderful Band
The Song “Silent Lucidity” is Just a Different Level of Singing Songwriting & Musicianship. It’s a Thinking Man’s Metal Classic
Thank you. Your journey has only begun with them.🤘🏼💓
You just watched the end of the story 😉
This band was pure magic in the 80s. Saw them 5 times and loved every show!
This a prime example of what's missing from the music today, an album that has story and still wholes up with what's out today. I would recommend react to whole album Operation Mind Crime
Too many great songs walk in the shadows don't believe in love operation mind crime revolution calling basically albums The warning, rage for order, mindcrime every song killer
My first Progressive Metal idols. I saw them live during the best era in 1984 and 1992. On November 23rd I'm going to see Geoff Tate (the singer) live here in my hometown Gävle (Sweden) in a small venue. It's going to be awesome to see and hear him in a more intimate setting and hear some old Queensryche songs.
Queensryche is also a big influence for bands like Dream Theater who are my all-time Progressive Metal idols.
I hope he sings Helpless for you. It was the standout song (to me) from what I've heard of his solo work.
Yes please! More Queensryche! Excellent band. One of the best concerts I've ever seen.
Queensryche is one of the most influential progressive heavy metal bands of the 80s, bands like Dream Theater have a great influence from them, on the other hand, their vocalist Geoff Tate is simply a beast like singer, his vocal range is impressive. To understand this song well you must listen to the entire album, since it is a conceptual work, that is, it would be like reading a book.
Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime 1988. AWESOME! \m/
This was an interesting concept album. It was like parts of an action/suspense thriller movie in each song and video.
I was just sitting here watching this wondering what it would be like to listen to the last song of a concept album and try to figure it out. Would be near impossible for sure. Was my favorite album for 30 years.
The song deals with three different topics. First is social anxiety, "People are always afraid of - the eyes of a stranger" since we never truly know anyone, and meeting people we don't know can be fearful. Especially strangers in public.
The second topic is, introspective. The duality of oneself. As we go through life we change. The experiences we have, friendships we make, all drive who we become. "As I raise my head and stare - into the eyes of a stranger" He's looking at his reflection and realizing that he doesn't recognize who he's become. Think of it like this, have you sold out how you were for who you are now?
The third topic is good verses bad, Holly verses Evil. His girlfriend (the Nun) represents innocence, love and good. The Docter/ Older Mentor represents temptation, anger and bad. The line "Is this all that's left for me - straight jacket memories and sedative highs" is the result of him giving into the temptation and anger.
The lyric "all I want is the same as everyone - why am I here and for how long?" can be interpreted both as littoral and philosophical. Literally, what did I do and how long am I here for? Philosophically, why do I exist and how long will I live?
The next song I would recommend would be "I don't believe in love" it is a continuation of "eyes of a stranger"
At least that's how I've always interpreted these two songs.
"Before the Storm" off "The Warning"!!
Same band but a different vibe, you have to hear "Silent lucidity".
I considered recommending it with the statement, "and for something completely different...". It is easily their softest song, and so different from the rest of what they do that it is the only Queensryche song that a lot of people (who don't like metal) know or like.
Queensrÿche. Suite Sister Mary you will love it
Formed in 1982 in Bellevue Washington. This singer is Geoff Tate who was fired in 2012
Heart and Queensryche are my favorite bands from Seattle. Went to see them live in concert during their best tours. A few bands became popular in the 90s but these are my top favorites.
Silent Lucidity is a must and was nominated for a grammy in 92. Its about comforting a young child after there first nightmare.
Take hold of the flame!
One of the great vocalists of all time. They were a pretty big group in the mid-80s through the early nineties. They have a ton of great songs and official videos on Operation Mindcrime, which this song is from.
Silent Lucidity is a great song off of their biggest album Empire... very soft and different from this one. Other great songs are Best I Can, Jet City Woman, Anybody Listening? Suite Sister Mary, I Don't Believe in Love, The Lady Wore Black,, Take Hold of the Flame( with everybody reacts to but the video/audio quality is poor) etc etc...many more
You started off with a great choice...this was always one of their encores.
This song comes from an album called operation. Mind crime And it's a concept album you have to listen to the whole album to really get it
Got to listen to the entire album.
I saw them opening for KISS back in 85
Geoff Tate/Chris DeGArmo are untouchable. Everything they wrote with the rest of this line-up is 🎶 MUSICALLY 🎵 awesome. I'm not afraid to say, "they are the GREATEST prog-metal band ever"! 🤘listen to more QUEENSRYCHE!!
You MUST do 'Suite Sister Mary' from that same magnificent album. It's not a song, it's a transcendental experience...
Do take hold of the flame. Early 80s maybe 82
One of my favorite albums ever and the song that culmination of the entire album...and what an album. This album is a story song after song is a chapter. Why do we always turn away from the eyes of a stranger? Go back and listen to the whole thing in and you'll realize the vocal range of Geoff Tate and the amazing concept of the album.
Great band, great album, keep' em coming!! Anything from the first EP till promised land is fire!!