The Warning went to number 100 in the UK, number 91 in Canada, number 61 on the US Billboard Album chart (with a twenty-three week total run), and number 42 in Sweden. The record was produced by James Gutherie who had worked a number of times with Pink Floyd.
Side one opens with the title track. “The Warning”, released as the first single, has a big dramatic sound to it – thanks to Tate’s soaring high pitched vocals. As a trained opera singer, he really knows how to carry the notes for the ultimate effect.
With its tolling percussion, “En Force” sets an ominous and foreboding mood. I like addition of the calmer epilogue that makes up the tracks final minute.
“Deliverance” features some cool guitar work, particularly on the bridge.
The band brings things down a bit with the slowly spiraling reverence of “No Sanctuary”.
Side one comes to a close with “N M 156”, a song about a world on the brink of destructive conflict.
Side two starts with “Take Hold of the Flame”, the album’s second single. At its heart is a message of hope and motivation to rise above adversity and darkness.
“Before the Storm” continues with the theme of a world on the verge of a war that will tear everything apart. This was a fairly common theme during the Cold War period of the 1980’s.
The mid-tempo “Child of Fire” is the next track.
The original vinyl album closes with “Roads to Madness”, an epic nine and a half minute long track. Tate’s voice really gives life to a man caught up in the grip of insanity.
The Warning is the first full Queensrÿche album I have ever listened to, and I liked it okay. As regular readers know, metal and progressive records are not my first choice. I did like how this one combines both of those elements quite well.
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