QUEENSRYCHE

The brief but energetic deput EP from Queensryche shows little of the prog metal leanings of future releases, instead finding the band playing in a tight NWOBHM-influenced style, with the influence of Iron Maiden (and, to a lesser extent, Judas Priest) very much in evidence - particularly in the vocal delivery by Geoff Tate. It's far from being a top-notch EP but it's not one I'm sorry to own either, being competently composed and performed but lacking any blow-you- away standout moments which keep the songs fresh in your mind after you've given them a listen. Three and a half stars seems fair.