QUEEN - Play the Game b/w A Human Body 7" Single, PS Picture Sleeve

In the grand tapestry of Queen's discography, the "Play the Game" / "A Human Body" 7" single stands as a fascinating curio – a testament to a band navigating the choppy waters of a new decade, a band unafraid to experiment even as they clung to their hard-won throne. Released in 1980, this single captured a snapshot of Queen in transition, torn between the theatrics of their past and the sleek soundscapes of the burgeoning new wave movement.

"Play the Game," the A-side, arrived like a bolt from the blue. Gone were the operatic bombast and multi-tracked harmonies of yore. In their place, a leaner, synth-driven sound emerged, courtesy of producer Reinhold Mack and the state-of-the-art Musicland Studios in Munich. This was Queen embracing the future, albeit with a tinge of trepidation. Freddie Mercury's vocals, while still undeniably powerful, took on a more vulnerable quality, a stark contrast to the flamboyant showman of earlier hits. The song's lyrics, exploring themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, hinted at a newfound maturity, a band grappling with the complexities of adulthood amidst the whirlwind of fame.

The B-side, "A Human Body," penned by Roger Taylor, further showcased Queen's willingness to push boundaries. This brooding, atmospheric track ventured into darker territory, both musically and lyrically. Taylor's vocals, layered over a haunting synth backdrop, delivered a chilling meditation on mortality and the fragility of human existence. It was a far cry from the stadium-filling anthems Queen had become known for, yet it revealed a depth and emotional range often overshadowed by their flamboyant image.

The single's picture sleeve, a stark black and white image of the band members, mirrored this newfound restraint. It was a visual departure from the elaborate costumes and stage personas that had defined Queen's early years. This was a band shedding their skin, revealing a more introspective side to their artistry.

"Play the Game" / "A Human Body" was met with a mixed reception. Some critics lauded Queen's willingness to evolve, while others bemoaned the absence of their trademark grandeur. The single's commercial performance was respectable, but it failed to reach the dizzying heights of earlier hits. It was a gamble, and perhaps not a wholly successful one, but it underscored Queen's refusal to stagnate.

In hindsight, this 7" single serves as a bridge between two eras. It marked the end of Queen's '70s heyday, a period of unbridled creativity and commercial dominance. Yet, it also laid the groundwork for their '80s resurgence, a time of reinvention and continued relevance. "Play the Game" / "A Human Body" may not be Queen's most celebrated release, but it remains a vital piece of their ever-evolving puzzle, a reminder that even the most iconic bands must adapt to survive.