Q5 - Steel the Light 12" Vinyl LP Album

In the world of '80s heavy metal, where spandex and hairspray reigned supreme, there existed a band that dared to challenge the status quo. Q5, hailing from the rainy Pacific Northwest, released their sophomore album, 'Steel the Light,' in 1984. It was a record that defied easy categorization, blending elements of hard rock, power metal, and progressive rock into a sonic tapestry that was both exhilarating and thought-provoking.

Historical Context

'Steel the Light' arrived at a time when heavy metal was undergoing a transformation. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal had paved the way for a more aggressive and virtuosic style of playing, while bands like Van Halen and Judas Priest were pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar. Q5, with their intricate song structures and soaring vocals, fit right into this evolving landscape.

Musical Exploration

'Steel the Light' was a testament to Q5's musical ambition. The album opener, 'Missing in Action,' kicks things off with a galloping riff and a chorus that begs to be sung along to. From there, the band takes the listener on a journey through a variety of musical landscapes. 'Pull the Trigger' is a hard-hitting rocker with a searing guitar solo, while 'Lonely Lady' showcases the band's softer side with its melodic balladry. 'Steel the Light,' the album's title track, is a sprawling epic that clocks in at over seven minutes, featuring complex time signatures and a dramatic vocal performance.

Music Genre

Categorizing Q5's music is no easy task. They were certainly a metal band, but they weren't afraid to incorporate elements of other genres into their sound. 'Steel the Light' could be described as a blend of power metal, hard rock, and progressive rock. The band's twin guitar attack, courtesy of Floyd Rose and Jonathan Scott, was a driving force behind their sound, while vocalist Jonathan Scott's powerful voice added an extra layer of intensity.

Controversies

Q5's career was not without its share of controversies. The band's original lineup featured future Queensrÿche vocalist Geoff Tate, who left the band after the release of their debut album. His departure led to a legal battle over the rights to the Q5 name, which ultimately resulted in the band changing their name to Queensrÿche. Despite this setback, Q5 persevered, recruiting new vocalist Jonathan Scott and releasing 'Steel the Light' to critical acclaim.

Production Team and Recording Studio

'Steel the Light' was produced by Q5 and recorded at Triad Studios in Redmond, Washington. The album's production was crisp and clear, allowing the band's musicianship to shine through. The guitar tones were particularly impressive, with Rose and Scott's solos cutting through the mix with razor-sharp precision.