Queensrÿche – Operation: Mindcrime II (2006)

 Released on April 4, 2006, Operation: Mindcrime II served as the long-awaited sequel to Queensrÿche’s landmark 1988 concept album. Picking up 18 years after the original, the story follows protagonist Nikki after his release from prison, haunted by the memory of Sister Mary and burning with vengeance against Dr. X. The album explores themes of regret, obsession, revenge, and the hollow promises of revolution in a modern age.

Darker and more theatrical, Mindcrime II continues the band's tradition of narrative-driven progressive metal. Legendary Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford makes a powerful guest appearance as Dr. X, bringing extra weight to the climactic showdown.

Band Lineup:

• Geoff Tate – Vocals, keyboards
   
• Michael Wilton – Guitar
   
• Mike Stone – Guitar, backing vocals
   
• Eddie Jackson – Bass, backing vocals
   
• Scott Rockenfield – Drums
   
• Pamela Moore – Guest vocals as Sister Mary
   
• Rob Halford – Guest vocals as Dr. X (on “The Chase”)
   

Track List:

1. Freiheit Ouvertüre
    
2. Convict
    
3. I’m American
    
4. One Foot in Hell
    
5. Hostage
    
6. The Hands
    
7. Speed of Light
    
8. Signs Say Go
    
9. Re-Arrange You
    
10. The Chase (feat. Rob Halford)
     
11. A Murderer?
     
12. Circles
     
13. If I Could Change It All (feat. Pamela Moore)
     
14. An Intentional Confrontation
     
15. A Junkie’s Blues
     
16. Fear City Slide
     
17. All the Promises
     

Operation: Mindcrime II is a dark, ambitious return to Queensrÿche’s storytelling roots—a psychological thriller set to metal, blending legacy with introspection, and bringing a legendary saga full circle.