The first offering from Queensrÿche and in my opinion some of the best work they have ever done. Ok the band has written shrewder and more intricate songs later in their career, but here we have 5 of the heaviest, rawest and compelling tracks of the time. This E.P. was originally released stateside with just 4 tracks, but somewhere along the line another song 'Prophecy' was added, I think for the UK and European releases. Put together on a 'shoe string' budget, I have often heard the production criticised, but I've listened to current releases that don't match this- It ain't bad in my book.

Kicking us off is the belting 'Queen of the Reich', which features great driving rhythm, explosive drumming and phenomenal high pitched vocals that are 'on a par' with the mighty 'Rob Halford'- a real gem, and still a regular live. 'Nightrider' follows in similar fashion, with truly accomplished guitaring, a great plodding bass line and more power vocals to die for. 'Blinded' is a scorching head banging classic, with a great hypnotic plod that intensifies magnificently at the end. 'The Lady Wore Black' is a slower, subtler number, that is reminiscent of the future Queensrÿche style. 'Geoff Tate's' vocals are sweetly keyed down, while the guitaring holds a steady but stimulating rhythm- great slower number that is again still on their live play list. Finally 'Prophecy' is a majestic high-pitched shredder in the vein of 'Iron Maiden' – you can almost hear their trademark 'gallop'.

The band really play to the best of their ability on this cut, and although later albums won't exhibit the rawness and speed shown here, this is made up for with intricacy and intelligent song writting. Oh and if anyone knows of a better E.P. released in the early 80's let me know!