Condition Hüman

There's no looking back now! Queensryche released their debut album with new vocalist Todd LaTorre in 2013, self titled 'Queensryche'. It was very well received, often hailed as a return to roots, to the style and attitude that made Queenryche so special to begin with. However, the album was only 35 minutes long and filled with what are essentially radio songs (i.e., 3-4 minuted long with simple song structures). Since Todd joined Queensryche had spoken often about returning to their prog rock/metal roots, and while their 2013 album was a good return to form, it didn't live up to the aforementioned label.

You'll have to forgive the history lesson, but given this album's place in Queensryche's history, I feel it needs to be addressed. So now enter 'Condition Human' ('Condition Hueman' if you take the umlaut seriously, haha!). Is this true full length album a return to form? Is it a true step forward? Absolutely. Unlike their self titled album, 'Condition Human' is not laden with radio rock songs. This album truly is progressive, but it still has tact and an emphasis on melody.

Todd LaTorre feels more comfortable in Queensryche now, blending the classic Geoff Tate influence with his own personal strong points. The rhythm section as usual is tight as hell and makes subtle rhythmic inflections that make repeated listens worthwhile and interesting. Of course, unlike the DeGarmo days, the guitar work is relatively restrained, but nonetheless capable and well performed. The production has only one issue, I think. I am by no means an engineer, but it sounds like the drums are little over-sampled. Nevertheless, this is easily the best Queensryche album since Operation: Mindcrime.

The album hooks you immediately with "Arrow of Time", a tune that's absolutely classic Queensryche, something that could have been found on their self-titled EP from '83. "Guardian" keeps the momentum with a phenomenal chorus and an ending section that is unconventional and absolutely terrific. From this point onward the album is a little more mid-paced focused. However, this is definitely not a bad thing. 'Selfish Lives" has interludes and spoken parts that hark to 'Operation: Mindcrime'. The album flows well and every song has something engaging. One last compliment I have to make is that the rhythms on this album are really one of the biggest highlights. "Eye9" has riffs and a chorus that make bobbing your head simply involuntary!

'Condition Human' is definitely a grower, not a shower (although it is indefinitely striking!). For fans of Queensryche who when asked if they like Queensryche, always had to clarify they only liked them up to 'Empire' or 'Promised Land' can finally rejoice. Queensryche is back. The 2013 album was a great taste, but this album finally makes it okay to be a proud fan of Queensryche. There is no doubt that Queensryche has a bright future so long as they continue to embrace their progressive rock/metal roots.

Highlights: "Arrow of Time", "Guardian", "Eye9", "Toxic Remedy"