Free Republic

Over the last few tumultuous years, things have become very political. War brings that out. People agree and disagree, and we Americans find it comfortable to debate politics with clever bumper stickers. One sticker slogan that pushed my buttons was one that declared, "I support our troops!" For months I asked myself what it meant. Was I missing something? Wasn't this statement obvious? Isn't this one thing that most of us can agree on?

Metal men give dystopia a suitable soundtrack;Stick It To Bush You can’t keep a good concept album down — especially when elements of its ominous story can be found lurking in current events. In 1988, Seattle quintet Queensrÿche released “Operation: Mindcrime,” a dark record that depicts a dystopian future society driven by charismatic — and sinister — demagogues. The central character is a street kid named Nikki who comes under the thrall of Dr. X and turns into his loyal assassin, eliminating anyone who poses a threat. It’s sort of “1984” meets “The Manchurian Candidate” with a dramatic metal soundtrack...

QUEENSRYCHE's GEOFF TATE posted the following message at his website, www.geofftate.com, on February 4th...We have some surprises planned for you with regards to the new studio cd and the upcoming tour that I'm betting that most of you will like. For all you net junkies out there, take a breath and go outside. The QR pipeline will be opening very soon and the details will be made public so you can all hear what the hell has been going on. Unless GWB brings us to our knees with a NUCLEAR HOLOCOST. Peace and NO WAR - GT."[my emphasis]...