Queensrÿche

How do you make a bona fide classic better? EMI certainly has their idea. There was no way they could let Rhino steal the glory -- and the money -- with their fine issue of Operation: Mindcrime II. That recording had all the elements that made the Queensrÿche original great, using '80s studio technology to create a seamless sequel to the original. EMI has hustled out (a mere three months later), two different editions of the original Operation: Mindcrime. This two-CD, single-DVD package offers the same remastered edition as the original, with a pair of bonus tracks recorded live at both Hammersmith Odeon (on December 15, 1990) and one from London's Astoria in 1994. Included, as on the bonus edition, is a live concert at Hammersmith of the entire album performed live on December 14, 1990. While the bonus cuts on disc one are throwaways -- and appeared on the first remastered edition of Operation: Mindcrime -- the live disc is not, and features a stellar performance by Queensrÿche, inspired and on fire. This Deluxe Edition slipcased box also includes file footage of eight songs from the album, a promotional piece on the making of the album, and a TV spot for it as well. What hardcore fans have to ask themselves is if the music is enough (the live concert CD is amazing) because the DVD is essentially just a toss in and really adds little to the Queensrÿche myth or legacy. ~ Thom Jurek, All Music Guide