Liquid Rooms Edinburgh
8th August 2026
Review & Photography by Gavin Lowrey
Queensrÿche’s Legacy: Operation Mindcrime
If there’s an album that encapsulates a band’s identity and an era, it must be Queensrÿche’s *Operation Mindcrime*. Released in 1990, this concept album stands shoulder to shoulder with classics like The Who’s *Tommy* and Pink Floyd’s *Dark Side of the Moon*. It propelled the band into the limelight, reaching a broader audience.
With themes of political corruption, manipulation, and murder, the narrative resonates strongly today, particularly in the contemporary political landscape. It’s fitting that Geoff Tate, the original lead vocalist and primary composer, chose to perform this album in its entirety during his tour.
The Venue: Liquid Rooms
Tonight’s concert takes place at the recently renovated Liquid Rooms in Edinburgh, an intimate venue that accommodates around 700 guests. During the Edinburgh Festival, it also hosts magicians and comedians, making for an eclectic atmosphere.
Witnessing attendees of a magic show inadvertently walk into the rock concert venue, bewildered by the stage setup and the throng of metal fans, was an amusing sight.
Opening Act: Eric Martin
Eric Martin, renowned for his work with Mr. Big, opened for the evening. His musical journey includes stints with 415 and The Eric Martin Band, collaborating with notable musicians like John Nymann (Y&T) and Troy Luccketta (Tesla).
From the outset, Martin captivated the audience, launching into “Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy.” His rapport with the crowd was a highlight, as he infused humor into anecdotes from his career.
Martin’s setlist predominantly featured classics from his Mr. Big era, showcasing hits like “Take Cover” and the universally loved “To Be With You.” Although his eight-song set felt brief, fans are hopeful for his return, especially with a new Eric Martin Band album released this year.
Geoff Tate’s Show: A Full Album Experience
Geoff Tate’s plan for the evening was straightforward: to perform *Operation Mindcrime* in its entirety, followed by a selection of greatest hits. After a quick stage transition, the atmosphere shifted as the instrumental intro “Anarchy X” played, leading into “Revolution Calling.”
The sound quality was exceptional, with Tate’s band delivering a tight and powerful performance. The audience, spanning various age groups, sang along, proving the album’s timeless appeal. Tate’s vocal prowess remains intact, showcasing a range that rivals his performances from the ’90s.
Audience Engagement and Highlights
While the narrative of *Operation Mindcrime* flowed seamlessly without Tate’s usual banter, he returned to his engaging self afterward. The second half featured a debut of “The Answer” from his latest album, *Operation Mindcrime III*, which the crowd welcomed enthusiastically.
Tate, known for his contributions to the *Empire* album, treated fans to classics like “Empire” and “Jet City Woman,” before diving deep into older hits like “Take Hold of the Flame.”
Encore and Conclusion
The encore featured “Do You Still Believe” from *Operation Mindcrime III*, the iconic “Silent Lucidity,” and concluded with “Queen of the Reich,” a nod to where it all began in 1983.
Geoff Tate stands as one of rock and metal’s great vocalists, and tonight’s performance was a testament to his enduring talent. If you have the opportunity to experience one of these shows, seize it—you won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
What is the capacity of the Liquid Rooms in Edinburgh?
The Liquid Rooms can accommodate approximately 700 attendees.
Who was the opening act for Geoff Tate’s concert?
Eric Martin, known for his work with Mr. Big, was the opening act.
Was *Operation Mindcrime* performed in its entirety?
Yes, Geoff Tate performed *Operation Mindcrime* in full as part of the concert.
What highlights were featured in Eric Martin’s set?
Eric Martin’s set included hits like “To Be With You” and “Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy.”
What songs were included in the encore?
The encore featured “Do You Still Believe,” “Silent Lucidity,” and “Queen of the Reich.”
