When it comes to capturing every facet of Queen on their '73 debut, there is no better example than "Liar". Its powerful tension and controlled chaos are expertly expressed through a dynamic lead vocal, intensely layered guitars, a colorful percussion performance and a commanding bass; not to mention impactful backing vocals. Breaking down every version (Queen, Queen I, De Lane Lea, Sessions, BBC), I was surprised to discover just how varied the character of each performance is; and which version I ended up preferring.
I'm kicking off my new micro-series by visiting Robyn's fantastic "Honey"; a song that deserved a special spot on my Chillout list and one I've listened to so much, it might as well be an anthem. It sounds like it feels, and feels like it breathes. It simultaneously takes you places and holds you tight. It's a magical track that only came to be after years of reworks and revisions. And it was totally worth it. Whether you dig the original album cut, the demo version, any of the remixes, or a live performance.. it's a gorgeous and incredibly, sensually human song.
When was the last time you allowed yourself to be yourself; and gave it away? I had a moment at my recent hair refresh appointment that both terrified and lifted me. And it gave me a new perspective on my previous podcast episode (which I'd contemplated deleting or editing).
In 2020, I embarked on a 30-day challenge to choose a favorite Queen song in various categories (favorite ballad, favorite album opener, etc.). I hadn't revisited that list in some time, and I thought it would be a blast to see if my selections still ring true. Bonus: I'd love to hear from you and find out some of your favorites! Drop me a line.
Possibly one of the first Queen songs conceived, "My Fairy King" is Freddie's first epic song on their debut, and it's the first time we hear his expansive piano skills. As we explore various versions of this song (including the precious Sessions take) we'll break down what makes this such a stunning display of intention, talent and storytelling.
Heard for the first time in 1991, the long-lost "Mad The Swine" finally landed in its rightful place on Queen's debut album when it was remixed and re-released in 2024 as Queen I. We'll go through three different versions of this soothing gem and talk a supposed live performance; plus a sneaky spoken lyric hidden in the second chorus that I still can't figure out.
Throwback. Nostalgia. 2000s. It was an easier time and a breezier time. As I navigate through the challenges of life, I'm recapturing brighter feelings and dreaminess by escaping into some of my favorite chill tunes of yesteryear. Cruise through my curated playlist with me to (re)discover some of the best of the chillout genre (and other genres like it, including trip hop, dark wave, etc.). BONUS: Here's a link to my playlist, with an extra-chill song I impulsively added at the end. I'll probably talk about that one later...
"Great King Rat" is still one of my favorites on Queen's debut, and diving into various versions of the song has made me appreciate it's complexity all the more. We're talking one of the earliest guide takes, the De Lane Lea cut, live performances and of course we'll compare the original Queen and Queen I mixes. You might be surprised which one wowed me the most this go round...
Brian's (and Tim Staffell's) "Doing All Right" gives us a contrast of ballad tones and heavier prog rock, seamlessly blended in this reflective number. We'll compare various recordings; including the original Smile take, the Acoustic Session, and the difference between Queen and Queen I versions. I also included a BBC take for one special reason. Plus, I'm beginning to notice a trend with the Queen I mixes. And I elaborate more on frequency ranges and their importance within a song.
To acknowledge the freshness of Queen's debut, now titled Queen I, I'm finally diving deeper into each of the album's prog-rock songs. And as we get into Queen's first single we'll talk the De Lane Lea demo, the Sessions cut, the comparison of the Queen and Queen I versions, live performances, my favorite iteration and another take that'll really keep you alive. Bonus, I get into promo video fun facts; including the boys' first try and raw reel footage.
Has something ever happened to you that you couldn't explain? Something instantaneous, and obviously outside of your control. Something miraculous and life-changing. It sweeps in and changes you and brings you back. It lifts a weight off of you. Yeah, that happened to me. And before I talk more Queen on my podcast, I have to tell you my little story.
How many times can one say the word 'brilliant' in a podcast episode? Someone count and tell me, because I was totally unaware as I went through my list of artists and bands I love; who happen to have reinvented themselves a fair number of times. Through this episode, I explore the motivation of reinvention, whether it's innate or subconscious or extremely strategic (or all of the above). And yes, we'll talk Queen.
I am going to throw so many facts and names at you in this episode, your head will be spinning; in the best, most royal and regal way, of course. But a Queen album kickoff must be done in style, and as I revisit this remarkable debut from this unforgettable and powerful band, I'm proud and excited to share some of the coolest facts I've discovered about our favorite boys. Come with me, and let's once again visit my favorite Queen era...
I indulged in Queen's newly remixed and remastered debut and I want to share my thoughts with you. In addition, as I obsessively listen to Queen I and fall madly in love with the sessions disc and can't get over the fresh sound, etc., I've realized...I can do something fun with this...
ICYMI, Queen unveiled the re-release of their debut, now called Queen I; with entirely remixed songs (that sound like they always wanted), a plethora of alternate takes, early takes, a photo book, and more. To celebrate this announcement, the guys teased with the remixed cut of deep track "The Night Comes Down", one of my favorites. They also shared the official video for the newly mixed song. All of the newness is exciting. But it hasn't gone unnoticed that new technology has been used to modernize this latest material. Dive in with me, and let's remember to celebrate the newness! Plus, I mention Wings of Pegasus, don't forget to check it out.
It's okay. I must have said that ten or more times in this episode. Because no matter what age we are, we have boxes to check. Things we want to do and see and be. And when we fall short, and we fail, we wonder what's wrong with us; when so many around us live seemingly perfect lives. Nothing is wrong! And their lives aren't perfect, either. We're all just trying to get by. I talked about a lot of things here, got pretty passionate and obstinate, and there are moments where I (nearly) contradict myself. But the point is, no matter what your life is right now, it's okay, and so are you.
I always name the man who stole my attention the most on the most recent album I've finished diving through. With Queen's 12th album, I struggled. I actually considered naming giving two men the equal honor of stealing my ears away. But while on a recent road trip I had plenty of time to ponder, and given the pop inclinations of this album, it's soulfulness and bouncy vibes, I realized...I kept noticing one Queen much more than the others. P.S. Plenty of tangents in this short and sweet episode.
The closing number of Queen's 12th album and Freddie's only contribution as sole composer, "Princes of the Universe" captures earlier rockin' Queen and features many fast-paced moments and thrills. Freddie sings aggressively throughout, Brian's solo is epic, Roger plays live drums with bombast and John pounds his bass like no other. The Townhouse early master showcases the brilliant instrumentation. But for all its loudness and impressive chord changes, I'm left wanting more.
One of the danciest rock things Queen ever did (and really, it sometimes feels nothing like Queen), Roger's "Don't Lose Your Head" is driven by bombastic percussion that never gets a break, Brian's echoing gritty guitars and Freddie's crystal clear vocals (lead and all backing). But I don't know if I believe Freddie as he implores us to chill out. The instrumental version "A Dozen Red Roses For My Darling" amps the dance elements, almost taking us into early techno territory.
Brian brings the heat, the roar and a guitar bagpipe solo in "Gimme the Prize (Kurgan's Theme", an aggressive and demanding metal-tinged anthem inspired by Highlander's villain. Distorted guitar layers and Freddie's sharply delivered full chest vocals make this one of Queen's heaviest songs. It was never performed live but several "eYe Versions" exist (Queen: The eYe Soundtrack), omitting the impressive intro and all film sounds. Some fans dig the aggression, Brian's bagpipe solo and Freddie's screams and cackles. But me? Well...
