Queensryche

The "thinking man's metal band" offers more to contemplate on this based-on-real-life concept album. Opening with "Sliver," a track that reflects the fear a soldier faces in an active war zone, this gripping story is told through the actual words of military men experiencing catastrophic events ("A Dead Man's Words," "Remember Me"). Queensryche talked to war veterans and interweaved snippets of their interviews into the songs. The effect is dark, progressive and incredibly powerful.