MORE PHOTOS - Queensryche

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In 2009 Seattle hard rock/metal establishment Queensryche continue to prove that a creative philosophy can keep a veteran band fresh to their fans as well as to themselves. There is no debating that "Operation Mindcrime" is the heart and soul of their three decade history, and it’s well known that the band has dedicated a sufficient portion of their past and recent touring endeavors featured around the concept. Although this may be their "comfort zone", in 2008 the band started retreating from Mindcrime material on the "Take Cover" tour with revitalized setlists that featured material from the many other releases, including many deep tracks. This invigorated philosophy has carried through once again into 2009 as the band is supporting their new "American Soldier" release with a 3 suite show featuring the new songs slotted in between sets of"Rage For Order" and "Empire" material. The touring band has also been expanded to include new members Parker Lundgren on guitar and Jason Ames on keys/background vocals and the show also features a guest appearance from Geoff Tate's young daughter Emily Tate.

Through the years the band has placed an important emphasis on the visual aspect of the show in addition to their always stellar musical performance, as this tour is of no exception. Throughout the selections, the show was enhanced with background screen footage and images that added to the overall message and theme of each song, allowing the audience to experience more than just the music itself. Also, anyone who has seen a past Queensryche concert understands that Geoff Tate is not one for idol chatter in between songs. He once again spoke to the audience with many tales and reflections, but made sure that the balance and significance was somewhere in between the nostalgic times of the music and the reality of the world today. The complete experience just reinforces the point that this band are pro's at revisiting the past, but very much prove to be relevant and current within their third decade as a unit.