Former Queensrÿche frontman Geoff Tate has confirmed that he’s in the process of creating the third and final part of the band’s iconic Operation: Mindcrime album series. In a recent interview with Rock Of Nations, Tate opened up about the direction and themes of Operation: Mindcrime III, offering a glimpse into what fans can expect from this highly anticipated solo project.
Tate described the new music as having “more of an early Queensrÿche feel,” saying, “[The new songs are] super heavy, and some of ’em are incredibly technical. They’re like algebra. You need a calculator when you’re listening to the song.”
He went on to explain that while the music is intense and complex, there’s an emotional depth as well. “And, of course, some of them are very emotional. It’s the last chapter in the ‘Mindcrime’ series,” Tate added. “So it’s following the exploits of Dr. X, Nikki, and Sister Mary, and picks up at a particular point in their story, delving into what is happening at that time with them. I am just in love with it. I am so happy with everything so far, and I can’t wait for people to hear it.”
Released in 1988, Operation: Mindcrime catapulted Queensrÿche into the spotlight. The concept album, which tells the story of Nikki, a drug addict caught in a dangerous cult led by Dr. X, has since become a cornerstone of progressive metal. Its powerful storytelling and intricate music made it an instant classic.
The sequel, Operation: Mindcrime II, was met with mixed reviews, with some fans and critics feeling that it did not live up to the impact of the original, and that its release may have diminished the album’s legacy. However, Tate’s upcoming final chapter promises to bring closure to the saga with a new twist.
In addition to the new album, Tate announced that he will be embarking on a farewell tour, titled Geoff Tate’s Operation: Mindcrime: The Final Chapter, where he will perform the Operation: Mindcrime album in its entirety. The tour, which was first revealed last month via Instagram, will kick off in March and April of 2025, with additional dates in September and October.
As Tate prepares to wrap up this monumental chapter of his career, fans can look forward to an epic conclusion to the Operation: Mindcrime story and a final live performance that promises to be a memorable celebration of one of progressive metal’s most influential albums.
