(February 2018) I have completed episode 74 of my “opus project,” in which I listen to a band’s complete discography from start to finish. This episode: QUEEN. As a fan, I’ve always been puzzled by the critical scorn. After this run-through, I see their point. Lots of empty calories. However, few bands can offer a Greatest Hits collection that is a more fun, sing-with-the-windows-down glamfest than Queen. I love Brian May’s innovative work (in the 1970s), and Freddie’s voice of course. Just don’t bother with anything from the 1980s or later.
Favourite album: Night at the Opera
Favourite song: Bohemian Rhapsody
Favourite heavily-layered mini-opera that is not Bohemian Rhapsody: The March of the Black Queen (from Queen II)
Favourite Period: 1973-75
Worst Album: Flash Gordon (soundtrack)
Worst Album that is not a soundtrack: anything after The Game (1979)
Special sauce: Brian May
Compared to expectations: ↓
Opus Project 