Empire cover

Empire

Queensrÿche · 1990

63 min · 11 tracks · heavy metal · progressive metal

Melodic heavy metal harmonies intertwine with thought-provoking lyrics, creating an emotionally resonant soundscape.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with emotional peaks
  • thought-provoking lyrics for reflection
  • evening listening with friends
  • melodic harmonies for sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on August 20, 1990, 'Empire' was Queensrÿche's fourth studio album and marked their commercial peak following the success of their previous album, 'Operation: Mindcrime'. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from a progressive metal sound to a more accessible rock aesthetic, fueled by mainstream radio play.
Stylistic neighbors
Dream Theater· Fates Warning· Symphony X

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Best I Can 5:34
  • 2 The Thin Line 5:42
  • 3 Jet City Woman 5:22
  • 4 Della Brown 7:03
  • 5 Another Rainy Night (Without You) 4:29
  • 6 Empire 5:24
  • 7 Resistance 4:50
  • 8 Silent Lucidity 5:47
  • 9 Hand on Heart 5:33
  • 10 One and Only 5:54
  • 11 Anybody Listening? 7:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata