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.

Why this album works

Best for
steady pacing with emotional peaks thought-provoking lyrics for reflection evening listening with friends
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.
If you like
heavy metal, progressive metal

Empire is an album by Queensrÿche, released in 1990. Melodic heavy metal harmonies intertwine with thought-provoking lyrics, creating an emotionally resonant soundscape. The album reached No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart and produced the hit single 'Silent Lucidity', which became one of Queensrÿche's most recognizable songs. Its blend of hard rock and conceptual depth influenced many bands in the early '90s, positioning Queensrÿche as a leading force in the heavy metal scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Empire sound like?

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

What makes Empire by Queensrÿche notable?

The album reached No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart and produced the hit single 'Silent Lucidity', which became one of Queensrÿche's most recognizable songs. Its blend of hard rock and conceptual depth influenced many bands in the early '90s, positioning Queensrÿche as a leading force in the heavy metal scene. 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.

Who is Empire for?

Empire works well if you're into steady pacing with emotional peaks, thought-provoking lyrics for reflection and evening listening with friends.

How many songs are on Empire?

Empire has 11 tracks, running approximately 63 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·63:23

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 Standout 5:22
  • 4 Della Brown 7:03
  • 5 Another Rainy Night (Without You) 4:29
  • 6 Empire Standout 5:24
  • 7 Resistance 4:50
  • 8 Silent Lucidity Standout 5:47
  • 9 Hand on Heart 5:33
  • 10 One and Only 5:54
  • 11 Anybody Listening? 7:41

Release Date

August 20, 1990

Genre

heavy metal, progressive metal

More albums in heavy metal

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

63 min 23 sec