Every Queen Album Ranked From Worst To Best
MOJO runs down every long-playing jewel from Freddie Mercury and co.
A Kind Of Magic
In 2005, it was calculated that Queen had become the most successful act in Britain’s album chart, with a total of 1,322 weeks on the chart, while The Beatles had 1,293. Admirers appreciate Queen for their melodies, compositional range, and Freddie Mercury’s stage presence. However, when you examine the band’s individual albums closely, even the most ardent admirer might admit they sometimes lack the gravitas that characterizes a 'rock classic' like, for instance, Led Zeppelin’s IV.
Brian May Interviewed: “The workings of Freddie’s mind were sometimes obscure…”
Queen, of course, can blend the styles of both Elaine Paige and Jimmy Page. On most albums, they venture into extremes of kitsch, pastiche, and schmaltz, particularly on at least a couple of tracks. Yet, anyone who enjoys the joy in popular music can listen with admiration to the tracks featured on the band’s Greatest Hits I compilation.
The albums are also impressive for their thrilling combination of individual talent and studio techniques. The songs range from ragtime to rock (via disco, funk, skiffle, gospel, and even Islamic rock). As Queen's discography unfolds, it is hard not to feel moved—only the most stony-hearted listener could fail to be swept up in the band's energy and creativity.
Studio Nadir: “I Want It All”
Queen’s studio nadir does include the song “I Want It All,” a powerful but standard anthem, written by Brian May. The song was inspired by a favorite saying of his wife, Anita Dobson.
Author's Summary: Queen’s albums showcase their vast musical range, blending diverse genres, and demonstrating their exceptional studio techniques, but sometimes lack the rock weight of legends like Led Zeppelin.