A decent compilation and then some, and some decent metal too. Something deserving of Queensryche.

Disc 1 is the real best of, featuring four top 40 singles and tracks from classic albums, including Empire, Promised Land and of course Operation: MIndcrime.

Opener 'Queen Of The Reich' (debut EP) is twin guitar prog metal full sonic assault at its best, with guitar runs from Priest and Maiden at their heaviest.

Geoff Tate's high pitched vocals sound perfect on many tracks, especially on 'Warning'.

It's rare that metal should be so heavy and so melodic. So coherent too.

The singles 'Eyes Of A Stranger' and 'Silent Lucidity' essential to any 'Ryche set, live or studio.

As good a compilation for Queensryche as you could expect on one disc.

Disc 2 (Collectors Edition) features many a rarity, many of which are previously unreleased.

It kicks off with three demo tracks by Myth, Tate's previous band, a few more demos and alternate versions, and tracks that were only previously available on expanded versions of albums (ie bonus cuts on recent reissues), and the set closes with 'Justified', a new track.

Any interest in Queensryche, whether as an introduction, passing interest or a fan or collector, there's something here for you.

****

Review by Joe Geesin

DVD review