Tater Thoughts

My Queen II boxset finally arrived, and I’m beyond jazzed to kick off my next adventure of Queen Deeper Dives! I’ve been digging deep into every version of every album track. Brian’s genius opener intrigues with intensity and intention that’s both classical and rock, edgy and ethereal. With layers (and layers) of guitars, the hum of Queen II shifts into brightness in the 2026 remix . BONUS: the Se...

As I (still) await the arrival of my Queen II Collector’s boxset , I’m continuing my new series with an episode all about how I do what I do! From seeded ideas (there are still many on my list) to episode notes to recording settings to publication to promos (color-coded for Queen talk), there are many steps in the process — and I do it all myself. If you’re curious, dive into the details with me…

No sugarcoating… I’m presently recovering from a concussion. And while I wait for my head to heal, I’m waiting for something else . I’ve yet to receive my order of the Queen II Collector’s Edition boxset. And in that waiting, I’ve rediscovered the magic of something long forgotten — delayed gratification and the anticipation of newness that results in cherished experiences. This was the perfect mo...

In teasing style, we wrap Queen I with Freddie's magnificent tail out of a song. As brief as it is, every version ( Queen , Queen I , Sessions ) solidifies the band's 'but wait , there's more ' energy. I also dig into my impressions of Queen I after diving through every track in detail — and why my opinion likely aligns with fans who've been following the band since day one...

Freddie's contemplative account of the Prince of Peace may not be so surprising when you consider his early enthusiasm for fantasy, mythology, and the fight between good and evil. Though he'd later disown this, every version ( Queen , Queen I , De Lane Lea , Sessions , Imperial College ) carries its own intensity and color—and extended opportunities for Freddie to sing in gospel style, Rog...

Brian's stomping exploration of human intention versus human capacity is one of Queen's best examples of dark and gritty, bluesy rock 'n' roll. It demands dirt and buzzing and harshness, and as we explore various versions of this song ( Queen , Queen I , BBC , Sessions ), we discover how sonic imperfections (and extended breakdowns) might be the ultimate amplifier for an ideal rock...

As I kick off my sixth season (!) of my podcast, I'm taking a break from Queen and music; and leaning into my life experience to offer you encouragement, ideas, and inspiration. It's been an interesting and bumpy journey. But I'm still here, so are you , and I can only hope the brightness persists as we do more than simply survive — we live .

Roger's first contribution to Queen blasts out of the gate and while it might be an intentional (or even subconscious) nod to another band, it stands on its own as a blazing statement of presence. Various versions ( Queen , Queen I , Sessions Take , BBC Session 4 ) take us through the song's creation to an impressive performance that might take the cake as the ultimate best. This may be a...

One of my favorites on Queen's debut, "The Night Comes Down" is Brian's glittery and somber acoustic-driven ballad. It's a standout in their entire catalog; and not just because it's the only De Lane Lea demo to make it onto their debut (it's also the oldest Queen recording on any official release). Its notably subdued and softer sound provides the perfect moment to c...

When it comes to capturing every facet of Queen on their '73 debut, there is no better example than "Liar". Its powerful tension and controlled chaos are expertly expressed through a dynamic lead vocal, intensely layered guitars, a colorful percussion performance and a commanding bass; not to mention impactful backing vocals. Breaking down every version ( Queen , Queen I , De Lane Le...

I'm kicking off my new micro-series by visiting Robyn's fantastic " Honey "; a song that deserved a special spot on my Chillout list and one I've listened to so much, it might as well be an anthem. It sounds like it feels, and feels like it breathes. It simultaneously takes you places and holds you tight. It's a magical track that only came to be after years of reworks an...

When was the last time you allowed yourself to be yourself; and gave it away? I had a moment at my recent hair refresh appointment that both terrified and lifted me. And it gave me a new perspective on my previous podcast episode (which I'd contemplated deleting or editing).

In 2020, I embarked on a 30-day challenge to choose a favorite Queen song in various categories (favorite ballad, favorite album opener, etc.). I hadn't revisited that list in some time, and I thought it would be a blast to see if my selections still ring true. Bonus: I'd love to hear from you and find out some of your favorites! Drop me a line.

Possibly one of the first Queen songs conceived, " My Fairy King " is Freddie's first epic song on their debut, and it's the first time we hear his expansive piano skills. As we explore various   versions of this song (including the precious Sessions take ) we'll break down what makes this such a stunning display of intention, talent and storytelling.

Heard for the first time in 1991, the long-lost "Mad The Swine" finally landed in its rightful place on Queen's debut album when it was remixed and re-released in 2024 as Queen I. We'll go through three   different   versions of this soothing gem and talk a supposed live performance; plus a sneaky spoken lyric hidden in the second chorus that I still can't figure out.

Throwback. Nostalgia. 2000s. It was an easier time and a breezier time. As I navigate through the challenges of life, I'm recapturing brighter feelings and dreaminess by escaping into some of my favorite chill tunes of yesteryear. Cruise through my curated playlist with me to (re)discover some of the best of the chillout genre (and other genres like it, including trip hop, dark wave, etc.). BO...

"Great King Rat" is still one of my favorites on Queen's debut, and diving into various versions of the song has made me appreciate it's complexity all the more. We're talking one of the earliest guide takes , the De Lane Lea cut, live performances and of course we'll compare the original Queen and Queen I mixes. You might be surprised which one wowed me the most this go...

Brian's (and Tim Staffell's) "Doing All Right" gives us a contrast of ballad tones and heavier prog rock, seamlessly blended in this reflective number. We'll compare various recordings; including the original Smile take , the Acoustic Session , and the difference between Queen and Queen I versions. I also included a BBC take for one special reason. Plus, I'm beginning to notice a trend with the Qu...

To acknowledge the freshness of Queen's debut, now titled Queen I, I'm finally diving deeper into each of the album's prog-rock songs. And as we get into Queen's first single we'll talk the De Lane Lea demo , the Sessions cut , the comparison of the Queen and Queen I versions, live performances, my favorite iteration and another take that'll really keep you alive. Bonus, I get into promo video fun...

Has something ever happened to you that you couldn't explain? Something instantaneous, and obviously outside of your control. Something miraculous and life-changing. It sweeps in and changes you and brings you back. It lifts a weight off of you. Yeah, that happened to me. And before I talk more Queen on my podcast, I have to tell you my little story.

How many times can one say the word 'brilliant' in a podcast episode? Someone count and tell me, because I was totally unaware as I went through my list of artists and bands I love; who happen to have reinvented themselves a fair number of times. Through this episode, I explore the motivation of reinvention, whether it's innate or subconscious or extremely strategic (or all of the above). And yes,...

I am going to throw so many facts and names at you in this episode, your head will be spinning; in the best, most royal and regal way, of course. But a Queen album kickoff must be done in style, and as I revisit this remarkable debut from this unforgettable and powerful band, I'm proud and excited to share some of the coolest facts I've discovered about our favorite boys. Come with me, and let's o...

I indulged in Queen's newly remixed and remastered debut and I want to share my thoughts with you. In addition, as I obsessively listen to Queen I and fall madly in love with the sessions disc and can't get over the fresh sound, etc., I've realized...I can do something fun with this...

ICYMI, Queen unveiled the re-release of their debut, now called Queen I; with entirely remixed songs (that sound like they always wanted), a plethora of alternate takes, early takes, a photo book, and more. To celebrate this announcement, the guys teased with the remixed cut of deep track " The Night Comes Down ", one of my favorites. They also shared the official video for the newly mixed song. A...

It's okay. I must have said that ten or more times in this episode. Because no matter what age we are, we have boxes to check. Things we want to do and see and be. And when we fall short, and we fail, we wonder what's wrong with us; when so many around us live seemingly perfect lives. Nothing is wrong! And their lives aren't perfect, either. We're all just trying to get by. I talke...