Back catalogue: Rock (All)

Review: Given how much they became part of the rock establishment furniture in their later years, it's easy to forget what a radical and even threatening - using gay slang was a very different and altogether more dangerous prospect for a start - band Queen were in the early 70s. They cut a unique musical corner for themselves, not quite glam, not quite metal, but definitely leaning towards both, with Freddie Mercury's gusting voice and Brian May's raw guitar sound both thrusting away with plenty of feisty vigour. Anyone who's heard and loved thair legendary Live At The Rainbow 74 album - one that even avowed Queen haters have been known to admit has a certain charm - will appreciate the thrills on display just six or so miles up the North London road a mere year earlier. As ever, the heavier work works even better in the bearpit live atmosphere. Their rendition of 'Liar' approaches top marks on the 'one to Motorhead' rock scale, but the early rock 'n' roll medley and 'Carry On'-style larks of 'Hey Big Spender' are equally fascinating glimpses of these rock legends enjoying their formative years. A lot.

Review: The Queen I Collector's Edition is a comprehensive and remastered look at Queen's groundbreaking 1973 debut album. This x6CD + 1xLP box set presents 63 tracks, including 43 newly remixed versions, demos, live recordings and alternate takes, making it the most complete version of Queen I to date. For the first time, a Queen album has been given a full stereo remix, allowing listeners to experience the album the way the band originally intended. Key highlights include the restored running order, featuring the song 'Mad the Swine', which was left off the original 1973 release. CD1 delivers the 2024 remix of Queen I, while other discs offer demos from De Lane Lea Studios, unreleased sessions and backing tracks. CD5 features rare BBC recordings and CD6 presents live performances, including Queen's first-ever show at London's Imperial College in 1970 and tracks from their legendary Rainbow Theatre concert in 1974. The set is beautifully packaged with a 108-page book containing handwritten lyrics and rare memorabilia, alongside four photo prints and a fold-out poster. For Queen fans and collectors, this expanded edition provides an in-depth look at the band's early sound, showcasing their energy, creativity and unmistakable talent from the very start of their career.