Best five of the many magnificent Queen studio albums

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One method of paraphrasing the original text: I previously discussed the top-selling rankings for Queen’s studio albums. This statement contained a few surprises. Some exceptional albums ranked lower in sales than I believed they should have. Conversely, some albums, while not as musically impressive, saw higher sales.

There are plenty of reasons for that. Some albums were released much later in Queen’s history when they had built a worldwide following. Others, like their final of 15 studio albums, Made In Heaven, was released in 1995 after Freddie Mercury’s death. The appearance of a new Queen album, featuring Mercury, several years afterward sparked huge sales.

If we look to rank the top five studio albums from Queen based on the great music in them it’s a quite different list. To be clear, this list sticks just to studio albums. Live records or greatest hits collections are usually huge sellers and crammed with a band’s best songs and biggest hits. They’d nearly all be at the top end of a best-of list. 

This list, however, is more about personal preferences than indisputable facts. That means not everyone might share the same views, or perhaps no one does at all. But isn’t that what makes life interesting? The joy of forming opinions and debating them. Here’s one perspective on the top five studio albums from Queen that I find exceptional. Whether you concur or contest, enjoy this take on their best-ever studio albums.

Queen’s five best ever studio albums

5 – Queen II 

As a die-hard fan, I’ll share some insights about their early days: Their second album, released in 1974, sold a mere 100,000 copies globally, given it was one of their early works. Yet, this humble beginning laid the foundation for their future success. The unique pomp and flair that would become synonymous with them started to emerge in this very album. It had a powerful sound, hints of progressive rock, and an intriguing dual identity – White Side and Black Side, adding a touch of mystery to it. Above all, it was packed with fantastic songs.

“The song most associated with the band, ‘Seven Seas of Rhye’, was their debut hit single. A key feature is that it instantly sounds like a Queen composition, even if you’re hearing it for the first time. Its distinctive and captivating sound is quintessential to their unique style, making it seem like an expected progression in their musical journey.”

Next to it are a pair of other popular Queen songs from that era. “March of the Black Queen” is moving in a direction similar to “Bohemian Rhapsody.” On the other hand, “Ogre Battle” is more of a snapshot, not a progression. It’s as heavy as Queen usually gets and has some thrash metal elements, but it’s also very fashionable.

For a blast of early Queen at their best, preparing the way for what lies ahead overall, this is a superb listen. As a whole, and considering how early on this comes and what’s to follow, this still ranks for many as one of their best albums. Fifth place out of fifteen is pretty respectable. 

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4 – The Works 

Back in 1984, the release of “The Works” felt like a fresh start for Queen, a reboot almost. It was a departure from our disco-influenced album “Hot Space,” signaling our return to rock music. Yet, true to form with exceptional Queen albums, it offered a diverse blend – merging catchy pop melodies with Brian May’s fiery guitar solos.

John Deacon was in a productive phase of songwriting and included “I Want To Break Free” among his notable hits. May composed the more intense “Hammer to Fall,” propelling the band back into the limelight. Mercury, May, and Roger Taylor collaborated on “It’s A Hard Life,” with Mercury playing his beloved piano once again.

Without a doubt, Taylor’s track “Radio Gaga” truly stole the show! The band’s music video for this hit, featuring snippets from Fritz Lang’s 1927 sci-fi masterpiece, Metropolis, really amped up the audience engagement during the chorus. It was almost as if it were an instructional video in certain parts. Notably, that iconic scene where the crowd mimics the stretched arm clapping, similar to what we witnessed at Live Aid a few years down the line, was simply electrifying!

This album offers much more than just its popular tracks. At the time, it was warmly welcomed by Queen enthusiasts, and it continues to sound impressive from start to finish. Without a doubt, the band truly shines in this release.

3 – News Of The World 

Ranking third is the sixth studio album by the band, titled “News Of The World,” released in 1977. It boasts a variety of songs and some true masterpieces. At this point, Queen was truly excelling with this album, and their tour for it was equally impressive. Admittedly, my partiality towards this album might be slightly influenced by the ticket I had for the Wembley Arena show.

In a simpler, more conversational tone: “The raw energy and straightforwardness of ‘We Will Rock You’ is contrasted by the elaborate and triumphant vibe of ‘We Are The Champions’. There’s even a hint of the punk era in the song ‘Sheer Heart Attack’, although it might not have been appreciated by the rebellious fans of Queen.”

Firstly, “Sleeping On The Sidewalk” and “My Melancholy Blues,” with their bluesy tones, are included along with other tracks like “Spread Your Wings.” This only serves to emphasize Mercury’s exceptional vocal skills. Moreover, the early funk rhythm of “Get Down, Make Love” is also featured. Considering the impressive quality established earlier, this album continues to uphold that high standard.

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2 – Sheer Heart Attack

1974’s release stands out for me as an early gem by Queen, demonstrating their diverse musical abilities and blending various styles during their growth and evolution. At times, it serves as a significant bridge from their heavier roots to the sophistication, elegance, and playful essence of future albums. It played a crucial role in their success on UK and US charts, solidifying Queen’s position as an emerging powerhouse band.

In this medley, the raw power of “Now I’m Here” and May’s impressive, lengthy guitar solo on “Brighton Rock” are blended with the upbeat, lively vibe of “Bring Back That Leroy Brown”, the high-energy intensity of “Flick Of The Wrist”, and a dash of almost metal-thrashing sounds in “Stone Cold Crazy”. What an exciting mix!

Before discussing other tracks, let’s talk about the famous “Killer Queen,” a remarkable song that became their first US single hit and reached number two in the UK charts. This track, along with others on the album, stands out as exceptional, with no skippable songs for me. Notably, “In the Lap of the Gods” is another standout with an impressive chorus. Overall, this album is one oft a regular choice I often-go-one of my favorite choices when listening to Queen.

1- A Night At The Opera

For its impact on music and myself at the time. For its variety. For its ingenuity, class, innovation, and style. And for so many great tracks, number one has to be A Night At The Opera. I still remember buying it, rushing home, and putting it on my stereo. It was an exploration of music as the tracks unfolded and most were heard for the very first time.

Again it’s quirky, rocky, progressive, vaudeville, folky, and much, much more. All four band members contribute great songs they’ve written. The album flows through all those different tones and styles superbly. It was a revelation at the time and still is now.

In essence, a large portion of it might be exclusively for side one. Prior to experiencing the powerful vocal performance in “The Prophet’s Song” and the rock hit “Bohemian Rhapsody”, you’ll find more folk-inspired tunes from “39” and a touch of Dixie jazz in “Good Company”. Interestingly, even the British national anthem, “God Save The Queen”, is included in there.

The album brings back memories at each play. It also seems to reveal something new each time too, there is so much complexity in the musicianship throughout. It was reported to be one of the most expensive albums ever recorded at the time. It’s worth every penny. 

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2024-09-04 13:02