Album Info
| Artist: | Queen |
| Album: | Queen II |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | US |
Tracklist:
| Side White | ||
| A1 | Procession | |
| A2 | Father To Son | |
| Written-By - May | ||
| A3 | White Queen (As It Began) | |
| Written-By - May | ||
| A4 | Some Day One Day | |
| Written-By - May | ||
| A5 | The Loser In The End | |
| Written-By - Taylor | ||
| Side Black | ||
| B1 | Ogre Battle | |
| Written-By - Mercury | ||
| B2 | The Fairy Feller's Master-Stroke | |
| Painting [Inspired By A Painting By] - Richard Dadd | ||
| Written-By - Mercury | ||
| B3 | Nevermore | |
| Written-By - Mercury | ||
| B4 | The March Of The Black Queen | |
| Written-By - Mercury | ||
| B5 | Funny How Love Is | |
| Written-By - Mercury | ||
| B6 | Seven Seas Of Rhye | |
| Written-By - Mercury |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
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Description
Queen's "Queen II," released in 1974, is a pivotal album in the band's discography, showcasing their early experimentation with complex compositions, elaborate harmonies, and a fusion of rock with elements of fantasy and mythology. This album, often regarded as one of Queen's most ambitious works, solidifies their unique place in rock history, blending diverse musical influences into a cohesive and distinctive sound.
The album is divided into two sides, referred to as the "White Side" and the "Black Side," each reflecting different aspects of the band's musical range. The "White Side," largely driven by Brian May's guitar work and compositions, opens with "Procession," an instrumental piece that sets a majestic tone for the album.
"Father to Son," a powerful track that follows, showcases Queen's ability to craft songs that are both grandiose and deeply personal. The song's dynamic shifts, from its hard-rocking verses to its reflective, melodic interludes, demonstrate the band's musical versatility and their penchant for dramatic storytelling.
The "Black Side" of the album, which includes some of Freddie Mercury's most intricate compositions, delves into darker, more fantastical themes. "Ogre Battle," with its thunderous riffs and vivid lyrical imagery, is a testament to Queen's ability to create a sonic landscape that is as theatrical as it is musically complex.
"The Fairy Feller's Master-Stroke," inspired by a painting by Richard Dadd, is another highlight, showcasing Mercury's fascination with art and literature. The track's intricate piano work and layered vocals create a kaleidoscopic effect, further enhanced by the song's lyrical references to characters from the painting.
"Queen II" is notable for its elaborate production, characterized by multi-tracked vocals, complex arrangements, and a blend of acoustic and electronic instrumentation. The album's sound, rich with detail and texture, showcases Queen's innovative approach to recording and their desire to push the boundaries of rock music.
"Seven Seas of Rhye," the album's closing track and first hit single, encapsulates the band's flair for melding catchy melodies with a grandiose musical vision. The song's anthemic quality and Mercury's charismatic vocals make it a fitting finale to an album that is both challenging and accessible.
Lyrically, "Queen II" is a tapestry of fantasy, personal reflection, and social commentary, with songs that range from the introspective to the whimsical. Mercury, May, and the rest of the band use their lyrics to craft narratives that are as compelling as their music, inviting listeners into a world of their own creation.
In conclusion, "Queen II" is a seminal album that captures the essence of Queen's early experimentation and their ambition to create music that defies categorization. The album's blend of rock, opera, and fantasy, combined with its intricate production and compelling songwriting, marks a significant moment in the band's career and in the evolution of rock music. "Queen II" not only solidified Queen's reputation as musical innovators but also laid the groundwork for their future successes, establishing themes and sounds that would become central to their identity as a band.
