Queensrÿche issued their 15th album, The Verdict, on March 1. It should be no surprise to stalwart fans that the group continues to evolve more than 35 years into its career. The music, always dynamic, remains so on this new set, the first in the group’s career not to feature drummer Scott Rockenfield. Instead, the group recorded as a quartet with vocalist Todd La Torre taking over the drummer’s throne. (more…)

It’s a cold, wet day in Seattle (what else is new?) when Guitar Player catches up with Queensrÿche’s Michael Wilton. Despite the nasty weather, the guitarist is enjoying some much-needed time at home before his band heads out on the road for a North American tour in support of its new, and 15th, studio album, The Verdict (Century Media Records). (more…)