Mindcrime at the Moore is a live album and DVD by Queensrÿche, capturing their ambitious performance of the Operation: Mindcrimesaga in its entirety. Recorded at Seattle’s Moore Theatre in 2006, the release showcases the band revisiting their two seminal concept albums, Operation: Mindcrime (1988) and Operation: Mindcrime II (2006), with theatrical flair and musical precision. The result is a gripping and immersive experience that highlights the enduring power of the Mindcrime narrative.
The performance begins with the entirety of Operation: Mindcrime, arguably Queensrÿche’s most iconic work. From the haunting opener “I Remember Now” to the triumphant “Eyes of a Stranger,” the band performs the album with a sense of urgency and reverence. Geoff Tate’s vocals are front and center, and while age adds a slight rasp to his delivery, his dramatic presence and emotive power remain undeniable. The band’s instrumental execution is tight and faithful to the original recordings, with Michael Wilton’s guitar work standing out for its sharp riffs and soaring solos.
The inclusion of live actors and video projections adds a cinematic dimension to the performance, bringing the story of Nikki, Sister Mary, and Dr. X to life. Pamela Moore reprises her role as Sister Mary, and her duet with Tate on “Suite Sister Mary” is a highlight of the set, brimming with tension and emotion. The theatrical elements enhance the narrative without overshadowing the music, striking a fine balance between rock concert and stage production.
The second act shifts to Operation: Mindcrime II, an album that received mixed reviews upon its release. Performed live, the songs take on a new energy and context, blending seamlessly with the original Mindcrime material. Tracks like “I’m American” and “The Hands” hit harder in this setting, while “If I Could Change It All” and “All the Promises” carry a poignant weight. Tate’s commitment to the material is evident, and the band’s cohesion ensures that the sequel feels like a natural extension of the first album.
The production quality of Mindcrime at the Moore is excellent, capturing the raw energy of the live performance while maintaining clarity and balance in the mix. The audience’s enthusiasm is palpable, adding to the electric atmosphere of the recording.
As a live document, Mindcrime at the Moore is both a celebration of Queensrÿche’s legacy and a testament to their ability to bring their most ambitious work to life on stage. It’s a must-have for fans of the band and a fitting tribute to one of metal’s most iconic concept albums. While the theatrical approach may not appeal to everyone, the combination of stellar musicianship, compelling storytelling, and immersive visuals makes this a standout live release.
by RUE MORGUE RECORDS
