Reviews (page 3 of 9)
Solid sound, but a bit samey. Much prefer some of their other work.
Songs for the deaf is probably a better album, but I've never heard their debut, so I'm excited. Off the bat, already love their energy, but they get more polished in later albums. Last few tracks felt too experimental for me and made my ears physically uncomfortable. 4* Highlights: walking on the sidewalks
Hadnt bothered to listen to much of them before. Turns out that was a mistake. Really enjoyed this. Filthy bass!
Classic album. Some really cool guitar riffs and I dig the melodies in their choruses. Some if it is a bit droney and hypnotic which I guess is what "stoner" means?
Does this band just ooze cool or what?! I was totally shocked to see that this came out in 1998 (I thought they were a 2010s band).
Jamming
I have a soft spot for this band, and I do enjoy listening to this album, so a four-star rating makes me happy.
I really liked You Would Know. Several of the songs caught my attention and were jammin! I had heard of this band before, but not listened to an album. It definitely threw me back to high school. I am super disappointed there aren't any women in Queens of the Stone Age.
Not my favourite Queen's album but a very strong self titled
I like this album a lot, great sound. I hate the typography on the cover. Some sort of shit free font from the 90s. Good album though. Sounds like Kyuss in places, which I like.
These guys were a fresh sound. I'm not sure the album holds together perfectly, and they benefit from a number of mediocrities before them in this random list, but four stars.
Not completely sold on the vocals, but the guitar and percussion were strong enough to merit 4-stars
cool album and impressive this is mostly just the one guy, but not my favorite QOTSA album
Lacks the refinement of Songs for the Deaf, falls short in my books.
Great record - totally up my alley and well executed.
I really liked this. Definitely could see the influence of Jack White and Josh Homme on each other
Sick stoner rock. I hope this isn't the only QotSA album on here.
Being familiar with later QOTSA stuff, I was underwhelmed at first. But when I got into my head that this was proper stoner rock and not like their later stuff, I enjoyed it a lot more That said, I feel like it takes itself too seriously
This album has the makings of a varsity athlete.
I liked this more than i thought i would. a fair amount of instrumental tracks
This is a no-holds-barred assault. If you are in the mood it’s awesome. If not it’s a lot on the ears.
This album is sort of in my wheelhouse in terms of style. Every song was good and there was enough variety to keep me interested. I’m between a 3 and 4 here, but I think I’ll give it a 4 just because it was a solid piece of work and I could definitely see myself listening to it again.
In the era of dying rock with trends of nu-metal, QOTSA come with the desert vibes to knock your socks off.
Oh brother. Wall to wall bangers. Also, Carlo Von Sexron is my D&D name. This isn’t for everybody. I can see how people might not love the repetition- but that’s part of the sound. This is music for robots to have sex to. It’s industrial in a very different way than any other band you would call “industrial.” And it’s metal- but- not at all like that. While I think Songs for the Deaf and Lullabies are superior, this record sets the template for QOTSA and was a breath of fresh air in the late 90s rock landscape. In short, Robot-boning is my business, and business is good. FOUR STARS
honestly i love this and its awesome butt rock to listen to with the windows down
Good rhythmic desert rock. The early stages of what would become their signature sound, this is yet to be refined but still surprisingly good for their first effort.
Not bad!
Man, was I sad when Kyuss called it quits. But man, was I happy when Mr. Homme returned with that album. Fav: You Can't Quit Me Baby
Du rock intéressant sur le plan de la voix et du travail sur le rythme et des effets inattendus. On sent une recherche d'innovation
I've only ever heard "no one knows". I love that song, so this album was a treat. I appreciate the long instrumental sections. Great buzzy grunge sound.
A bit of a surprising inclusion on the list. It's a good album but very much the transitional bridge between the sludgy stoner rock of Kyuss and what would become the precision desert rock QOTSA groove found on Rated R, Songs for the Deaf and beyond; it's not _really_ the best example of either. Still, it's a solid debut, the minimalist single note riff of Regular John making somewhat of a statement, and it would kick off one of the most remarkably consistent and high-quality rock band discographies of the next 20 years.
pretty good/great
Oh yeah, now we're fuckin talkin. QOTSA has the singular power of making their listeners want to buy a Ducati and drive through an unrelenting desert...or maybe that's just me. But this debut is off the chain and leaves no question that Homme as a songwriter was a force to be reckoned with. Bonus points here for this being the first album cover that held my teenage attention longer than any television program I had ever seen...
Good album to hear the first bits of this band figuring out their sound.
Hadn't listened to this album from QotSA before. But this first album of theirs shows what the band is famous for. Good, powerful rock with great riffs. Nice!
This album is great has fantastic sound with very detailed intricate parts, combined with a heavy, powerful rock sound. Only let down from five stars by a few bad tracks.
some bangers
Solid stoner rock. "How to Handle a Rope" slaps in particular.
holy riffage, batman
An album that answers the question "What if we just made the whole plane out of awesome riffs?" QOTSA is, in my view, the best hard rock band of the 21st century and one of my personal favorite acts. This album is a blueprint they would build on in the years to come, getting weirder and more diverse, and reaching much higher highs (esp. on Songs for the Deaf, ... Like Clockwork). They lyrics here never really pop, but that's not the point anyway. This is an album that meant to make you bob your head and air guitar, and it does that in spades. Best tracks: "Regular John," "If Only," "You Would Know," "Mexicola."
Hey I liked it. Better than a kick in the nuts
4/5 - Starts strong with Regular John and then never really lets up. As debuts go this is a great album. A lot of bands take a few albums to fully develop their sound but that’s definitely not the case with Queens of the Stone Age.
Not sure why never heard this, as have a couple of their albums. Enjoyed nuff said. 4 Star
I think QOTSA are easily one of the better high profile modern rock bands. When Songs for the Deaf came out I was a sophomore or so in high school, and songs like Go With The Flow and No One Knows were inescapable. 2013’s …Like Clockwork is a masterpiece in my mind. Oddly enough, I don’t think I’d ever listened to their debut album. It’s really quite good. When comparing it to their more polished sound on SFTD and LC, it reminds me a bit of comparing Meddle to Dark Side of The Moon and Wish You Were Here. It’s a stoner rock classic sound, if slightly flawed and unfocused it’s a great vibe and a sign of things to come. Opener Regular John is a banger and sounds most like their future sound.
Went to their concert a week ago, had a blast! I don't think this is their greatest work even tho it is pretty decent.
I think I'd heard this once before years ago and thought it was decent. But this time around it sounds much better. Like the late 90s grunge album nobody else was still doing at the time. I'm definitely going to go back to listen to this album in the future. A lot of solid tracks on here, and the album overall is pretty consistent. 4/5
Por fin un álbum de stoner rock. Personalmente, Queens of the Stone Age no me gustan tanto como Kyuss (su grupo raíz), pero aun así es un discazo. Guitarras distorsionadas sostenidas, un bajo predominante e igual de constante, voz melódica pero pensativa y atmósfera tranquila. Uno de mis estilos favoritos, aunque no hubiera elegido este álbum como representante del género. Además, como la mayoría de álbumes de este estilo, peca de ser demasiado largo y monótono. Le daría un tres, pero lo subo a cuatro porque, de alguna manera, suple la carencia de Kyuss en esta lista.
This was undeniably good music
Queens of the Stone Age are sophisticated grunge. They're up there with Soundgarden in my opinion. Great album.
Great album.
If it wasn't for several dud tunes and the rubbish lyrics, I would be giving this album five stars, because, in the main, I love the guitar work. but due to the aforementioned shortcomings, four stars is the best I can do.
I had never really checked these guys out. Total surprise!
I think this is my first time listening to Queens of the Stone Age’s first album. It’s awesome. Right out of the gate, they had their signature style of heavy metal and hard rock figured out. There’s lots of heavy, crunching riffs as well as Josh Homme’s soaring, dramatic vocals. In hindsight, taking their whole career into consideration, this album lays the foundation for their sound. But it absolutely rocks on its own terms too. On later albums, when their songwriting is even stronger and their range expands, they become a classic band — I would argue one of the absolute best of the 21st century — but as a first album, this is great jamming fun for sure! I lost track of how many times I grunted in satisfaction or said “hell yeah” to myself while listening to this.
Sounds a bit like Black Sabbath into the 90s. A solid effort but no tracks really stood out for me…but that rhythm section is very good. A weak 4
One of the best bands I've ever seen live, despite it having been in a massive arena. I prefer other albums but this is still a great listen - Homme's consistency is unbelievable. Rolled my eyes a bit at the cover, but it goes with the territory I guess.
What a pleasant surprise to see QOTSA represented in this list with their debut album. The intent on this album is clear, and it has has all of the hallmarks that would be more fully formed on later QOTSA albums. This is a fine album, with "Regular John" and "Mexicola" being stand-out tracks for me. I reviewed the 14 track version of this album rather than the 11 track original running order. 4⭐. That said, it's not the album I would pick to represent QOTSA in this list, that would be either "Songs For The Deaf" or "Rated R". If you are new to QOTSA I would start with "Rated R". Would I listen to this album again? - Yes. Would I buy this album? - I did 1 "Regular John" - What a great opening track. Very dramatic with a wall of guitars. It has that distinctive QOTSA sound from track one. - 5⭐ 2 "Avon" - 4⭐ 3 "If Only" - 3⭐ 4 "Walkin' on the Sidewalks" - The riff gets your attention. Vocally this is very good. Then it gets heavy. - 5⭐ 5 "You Would Know" - 3⭐ 6 The Bronze - 3⭐ 7 "How to Handle a Rope" - This has the QOTSA groove and then into a thrashy chorus. - 4⭐ 8 "Mexicola" - 5 ⭐ 9 "Hispanic Impressions" - 4⭐ 10 "You Can't Quit Me Baby" - 4⭐ 11 "These Aren’t the Droids You’re Looking For" - Great title. Off kilter riff, it deliberately jarrs. - 4⭐ 12 "Give the Mule What He Wants" - Nice bass introduction. - 4⭐ 13 "Spiders and Vinegaroons" - 4⭐ 14 "I Was a Teenage Hand Model" - 4⭐ Total - 56.00 Average - 4.00
I love the sound they make, but these tracks aren’t nearly as memorable or good as Songs for the Deaf.
Одновременно спокойный и жёсткий альбом с повторяющимися рифами и тягучим звуком
Successfully hits the spot.
It’s got Regular John on it, remember how good that was at Slane? It’s a v good QOTSA album which puts it above most guitar albums
After Kyuss broke up, I was very happy to hear Josh Homme continuing with Gamma Ray and eventually QotSA. While I was not totally happy with the direction they seemed to be heading, it was sort of audible on the Kyuss and Beaver split releases, but I only lost interest around the time "Lullabies to Paralyze" came out. I've been meaning to listen to the latter albums, but have failed to do so and atleast two albums I've left untouched all together. I do like this album tho and have it in my collection.
All in all, I like this one a lot. There was one throw-away song, and a couple of others that droned on for too long at the end, but this was still really good. This is one more band that I had heard of, but had never actually heard before. A pleasant surprise, and I give it 4 stars.
Fun. 4/5
I like this album. You can see how it is a crucial part of QOTSA developing their signature, sour and heavy sound. Many bangers and highlights throughout, a few average tracks but overall such a great debut Fav tracks - Regular John - Walkin on the Sidewalk - You Would Know - The Bronze - Mexicola - You Can’t Quit Me Baby - I Was a Teenage Hand Model Worst Tracks - Spiders and Vinegaroons
This is enjoyable. The sounds of it is nice, it's pretty hypnotic, which is good when in the mood for it. I think it's pretty clear their songwriting improved for later albums. But it's a promising debut I guess.
Cool early album of theirs. Closer to kyuss than modern queens
Killer stoner rock record, really mesmerizing instrumentals on this one. I can see how Dave Grohl would have heard this and thought to himself: "I wanna rock the fuck out with these guys"
Клевая группа, классный альбом
I've liked everything I've heard from Josh Homme over the years (QotSA, Desert Sessions, Them Crooked Vultures, that album he did with Iggy Pop), but I had never listened to the first Queens of the Stone Age album until today. Loved it. Might have to hunt down a copy, hopefully with the original cover artwork.
This is sick. It gets a bit redundant by the end, but that guitar tone is GLORIOUS. Really dig this a lot, excellent use of British dudes.
var med til at definere lyden af stoner rock i slut 90'erne. det er sådan lidt krautrock/robotrock agtigt fordi der er mange gentagende motoriske lyde. Det grænser også til psykedelisk men det er en del af lyden fra stoner rock. Den hypnotiske, rå og atmosfæriske del af det er desert rock. Jeg tror der er mange årsager til at jeg godt kan lide det her album. Under desert rock genren, som i forvejen er en atmosfærisk, rå lyd (oprinder fra starten 90'erne hvor man spillede rockkoncerter ude i ørkenen og det havde en speciel lyd åbenbart) men jeg tror den atmosfæriske, rå og hypnotiske lyd taler meget til mig. Der er åbenbart også lidt doom metal over det, fordi desert rock lyder sådan lidt mørkt. Ellers er den psykedelsiske, motoriske og gentagende lyd også meget mig. Så jeg tror der er mange årsager til jeg rigtig godt kan lide det her.
Sortir de l'ombre d'un groupe aussi mythique que Kyuss n'est pas une mince affaire. En 1998, lorsque Josh Homme dissout le monstre fondateur du stoner rock, le monde du rock lourd retient son souffle. Que pouvait-il bien advenir après avoir défini un genre tout entier, basé sur des amplis poussés à leur paroxysme, des riffs sabbathiques noyés dans la fuzz et l'immensité suffocante du désert californien ? La réponse est arrivée sous la forme d'un album sobrement intitulé "Queens of the Stone Age", une déclaration d'intention aussi déroutante que fascinante. Cet album fondateur est une oeuvre paradoxale : une machine de guerre rythmique d'une efficacité redoutable, dotée de mélodies hypnotiques, mais dont la précision quasi chirurgicale et la froideur calculée peuvent laisser l'auditeur à la lisière de l'expérience, admiratif mais pas entièrement conquis. Il est impossible d'analyser ce premier opus sans le comparer à son prédécesseur spirituel. Là où Kyuss était organique, boueux, expansif et presque incontrôlable, "Queens of the Stone Age" est tout son contraire : sec, épuré, incroyablement focalisé. Josh Homme, désormais seul maître à bord (ou presque, avec le batteur Alfredo Hernández), semble avoir volontairement pris le contre-pied de son passé. Il abandonne la lourdeur sludgy pour un son qu'il qualifiera lui-même de "robot rock". Et l'image est parfaite. L'album sonne comme une mécanique bien huilée, un moteur V8 qui tourne à un régime constant, puissant mais sans les soubresauts sauvages de la fureur adolescente. C'est là que réside sa première grande force, la section rythmique. La batterie d'Alfredo Hernández est un modèle du genre. Elle est à la fois puissante et incroyablement carrée, presque métronomique. Son jeu, influencé par le krautrock allemand de groupes comme Can ou Neu!, pose des fondations implacables sur lesquelles tout le reste peut se construire. Les lignes de basse, assurées en grande partie par Homme lui-même, ne sont pas en reste. Elles sont le ciment qui lie la batterie aux guitares, créant un groove monolithique, une pulsation qui vous prend aux tripes. Sur des titres comme "Regular John" qui ouvre l'album, ou "Walkin on the Sidewalks", cette synergie est palpable. Le squelette de chaque morceau est d'une solidité à toute épreuve. L'album est un monstre de groove, une leçon de rock'n'roll minimaliste et percutant. Par-dessus cette fondation, Homme déploie son génie mélodique. Les riffs sont la seconde grande réussite de l'album. Ils sont simples, répétitifs, presque hypnotiques. Ils s'insinuent dans votre esprit et y restent, comme des mantras électriques. "If Only" ou "Avon" sont des exemples parfaits de cette science du riff efficace, qui ne cherche pas la complexité technique mais l'impact direct. La guitare, avec sa sonorité si particulière, moins grasse que chez Kyuss mais tout aussi reconnaissable, tisse des toiles mélodiques entêtantes. Même le chant de Homme, plus en retrait, presque aérien, fonctionne comme une couche mélodique supplémentaire qui flotte au-dessus du maelström instrumental. Mais la perfection mécanique a un coût : l'émotion brute. L'album est brillant, mais il est froid. Sa production, volontairement sèche et compressée, renforce cette impression de distance. On admire la performance, la précision, l'intelligence de la construction, mais on peine à ressentir la vulnérabilité, la faille, l'étincelle de folie qui rend un album véritablement attachant. La répétition, qui est une force hypnotique, peut aussi devenir pour certains une barrière. Les morceaux se déroulent avec une logique implacable, mais ils semblent parfois manquer de ces aspérités, de ces accidents heureux qui font la chaleur d'un disque. "You Can't Quit Me Baby", avec ses presque sept minutes, est emblématique de ce paradoxe. Le morceau est un tour de force de tension et de répétition, une longue montée en puissance qui peut soit vous transporter dans une transe, soit vous lasser par son caractère obsessionnel. C'est un album qui semble dire : "Voici mon groove. Prenez-le ou laissez-le." Il ne fait aucun effort pour séduire l'auditeur, il impose sa vision avec une confiance presque arrogante. Cette démarche, si elle est artistiquement respectable, peut légitimement laisser une partie du public sur le bas-côté, comprenant intellectuellement la démarche sans pour autant y adhérer viscéralement. En conclusion, l'album "Queens of the Stone Age" n'est pas un disque qui cherche à plaire. Il impose sa vision avec une confiance absolue. C'est une oeuvre qui demande à être apprivoisée. Une fois que l'on a percé le secret de sa mécanique, on ne trouve pas un coeur froid, mais un moteur brûlant d'une intensité nouvelle. Ce n'était pas seulement la naissance d'un groupe, c'était l'invention d'un son. Un son qui, loin d'être une simple curiosité, allait profondément marquer les deux décennies suivantes. La note de 4 sur 5 lui rend justice : c'est un classique, un chef-d'oeuvre d'épure et de puissance hypnotique qui a su, avec le temps, prouver son caractère indispensable.
Very nice rock, really appreviated the bass lines and "Avon" in particular
Great album. Lots of energy and variety the whole way through
Totally above average. I'll come back to it.
8/10 Favorite Song: Regular John This record rules. It's so dry, completely locked into its own sound, and it just goes on forever. "Regular John" starts with that distorted lead and keeps that going for the rest of the record. It's as much a midnight desert drive as you can get with no destination. No hooks, no big push, just guitars, repetition, and Josh Homme sounding totally bored and threatening at the same time. It's minimal, and it's totally in control. Maybe not their best album, but definitely one of their most focused. You can tell they knew what they wanted to sound like.
Because of my small, smooth brain, I always get QotSA and Kings of Leon mixed up. This meant I expected Kings of Leon today and was pleasantly surprised to find something much better. There are some really nice riffs throughout this album. It's a shame that Josh Homme ended up being a big of a bad person (I don't think I made that up, did I?) as this album is actually a bit of a banger.
A primeira vez que eu ouvi soou melhor do que a segunda.
My first ever vinyl record. A classic of the stoner rock genre
Best Song: Mexicola I like Queens of the Stone Age. I am not a die hard fan, by any means, and this might be the first album I listened to from beginning to end. Stoner rock at its finest!
I liked this, very fun
Queens of the stone age has kinda lived on the perimeter of my music periphery for a long time. I can usually only enjoy them for a little bit of time before it gets a little too muddy for me; however, this album is still very good. I do think that album is too long though. Regular John is a fantastic opener. Weak 4
Enjoyable. Bass was fatter than I remembered. A little too long imo, but I get that a lot of this is supposed to be droney desert rock. Qotsa have better albums later that I would give a 5 ( Songs for the deaf and Like clockwork for sure) but this is feeling like a strong 4/5
I consider myself to be a huge Queens of the Stone Age fan. I really enjoy this album but it isn't even close to being their best work. To rate an album 4 stars while also saying it doesn't belong on the list is probably an odd hot take but that is my belief. If it is here as a historical importance type album I feel then Kyuss which evolved into QOTSA should have been included. I agree QOTSA should be on the list but I think Songs for the Deaf, Rated R, and Lullabies to Paralyze would have all been better choices. I get they aren't David Bowie or Elvis Costello so don't warrant multiple albums on the list but picking one of their better albums to give people a taste of what the band sounds like would have been better.
This is a pretty good album as well, but back in the day, I had to listen to it a few times to really absorb it and get familiar with it. It’s definitely an in-between transitional type album that straddles the line between the stoner rock and metal that Kyuss was known for, and the more straightforward rock sound that QOTSA evolved towards with their follow-up album Rated R.
I liked this. Kinda grungy rock that I could use more of. 4/5
I had avoided this when it came out for some dumb arbitrary reason, but I’m glad it came up today. I really enjoyed it. Not what I was expecting.
Had fun with this one, definitely brought me back. A couple songs made me think of the show Charmed and the bands that would cameo at their club. Can tell it's a debut album in that it falls apart a bit towards the end, but overall really enjoyed it.
Really enjoyed this! Hadn’t listened to QOTSA since middle school and only knew their later album. Loved the heavy textures on this one, will be coming back to this
Was not prepared for this to rip as much as it does. It’s not a fully fleshed QOTSA album and I have a hard time enjoying those dudes for all their personal problems. But when shit rips, it rips, and Homme et al. have incredible tonnage of riffs and groove here to kick off a whole genre. It fizzles by the end but it’s a fun trip while it lasts. Just confused why Rated R or Songs for the Deaf isn’t here instead…
some really cool tracks in the back half. forgot how much this rocked
Coming back to review this a week after listening. I definitely liked it. I can't remember why though.
I liked it. Nothing really grabbed me and stuck in my head, but I like the experimental nature of lot of it, especially towards the end of the album.
I’ve never considered myself a fan of QotSA but this is a very solid album. “Regular John” is such a great opener. This is definitely the most I’ve enjoyed an album on this generator in some time.
Entertained from start to finish. A few moments of repetitiveness but it seems like in every instance they pull themselves out with either a spectacular hook melody or they shake you out of it with a huge jolt of energy. Loved almost every moment. Only a couple “filler” tracks, but they were still pretty good. It sounded like a band that were playing around, having fun, and developing their sound.
Very spacey and more than a little grimy. Reminds me of the first albums by NIN and Foo Fighters, all self-made by the artist and what their true vision was at that time. Just when I thought it was going to be the same tempo/groove throughout the album, it changed up. Musically very interesting and bridges the 70’s hard rock with the 90’s/aughts production. Would be a great late night road trip listen.
Good debut. Probably one of their three best albums.
Love this band. Great sound
## In-Depth Review: *Queens of the Stone Age* by Queens of the Stone Age **Queens of the Stone Age’s** 1998 self-titled debut is a landmark in the evolution of modern rock, fusing the remnants of stoner metal with a new, groove-driven sensibility. The album stands as both a product of its time and a blueprint for the band’s future, offering a raw, hypnotic listening experience that is as compelling as it is unrefined. --- ## **Lyrics** The lyrics on *Queens of the Stone Age* are enigmatic, often dark, and sometimes disturbing. Josh Homme and drummer Alfredo Hernández craft lines that oscillate between the surreal, the violent, and the absurd, frequently adopting the perspectives of flawed or unstable characters[1][4]. Themes of obsession, self-destruction, and alienation are prevalent, as seen in tracks like “You Can’t Quit Me Baby,” which narrates a love so toxic it borders on psychosis: > “I slashed and I cut and I do it for you. I want you to notice when I’m not around. I’ll see you in hell.”[4] Elsewhere, songs like “Avon” and “I Was a Teenage Hand Model” weave cryptic imagery and dark humor, sometimes referencing biblical or existential motifs. The lyrics are intentionally open to interpretation, adding to the album’s sense of unease and unpredictability[4]. While the writing is creative and evocative, it can also feel detached or emotionally distant. Homme’s delivery, often subdued in the mix, reinforces the sense of a narrator observing chaos from a distance, rather than being fully immersed in it[2][4]. This approach can be both a strength-heightening the album’s mysterious atmosphere-and a weakness, occasionally making it hard for listeners to connect on a personal level. --- ## **Music** Musically, the album is a melting pot of influences, with the DNA of Homme’s previous band Kyuss evident in the sludgy, down-tuned guitars and desert rock grooves[2][5]. However, *Queens of the Stone Age* distinguishes itself through a tighter, more robotic approach-especially on tracks like “Regular John” and “Avon,” which channel the motorik pulse of Krautrock bands such as Neu! and Can[2]. The result is a hypnotic, relentless drive that underpins much of the album. The rhythm section is particularly noteworthy. Alfredo Hernández’s drumming is both precise and primal, locking in with Homme’s bass and guitar to create grooves that are simultaneously heavy and danceable. Tracks like “Mexicola” and “Walkin’ on the Sidewalks” showcase this dynamic, blending Sabbath-esque riffing with infectious, almost funky rhythms[2][5]. Guitar work is another highlight. Homme’s riffs are inventive and memorable, often eschewing traditional solos for angular, atonal leads that serve the song’s mood rather than showcasing technical prowess[1]. The interplay between repetition and subtle variation gives the album a trance-like quality, inviting listeners to lose themselves in its grooves. However, some critics have noted that the compositions can become repetitive, with certain tracks overstaying their welcome or lacking the dynamic shifts that would come to define later QOTSA albums[4]. The focus on groove sometimes comes at the expense of melodic development or emotional range. --- ## **Production** The production on *Queens of the Stone Age* is raw and unpolished, emphasizing the band’s live energy and the physicality of their sound[2][5]. Vocals are often mixed low, giving the instruments room to breathe but sometimes making the lyrics difficult to discern[2][4]. This choice adds to the album’s mysterious, underground vibe, but also highlights Homme’s relative lack of confidence as a frontman at this stage in his career[2]. The mix favors a wide stereo separation, with guitars and drums panned aggressively, creating a sense of space but occasionally making the soundscape feel disjointed[4]. There is a palpable sense of experimentation, with unexpected sonic elements (such as clarinet on certain tracks) and playful studio effects. Chris Goss’s contributions as producer and musician add texture and depth, even as the overall sound remains gritty and immediate[5]. While the rough edges are part of the album’s charm, they can also be a liability. Some listeners may find the production muddy or uneven, particularly compared to the more polished sound of later QOTSA releases. --- ## **Themes** Thematically, the album explores the darker corners of the human psyche. Obsession, violence, alienation, and existential dread are recurring motifs, often presented through the lens of flawed or unreliable narrators[1][4]. The music and lyrics work in tandem to create a sense of unease, with hypnotic grooves lulling the listener into a trance before unsettling them with abrupt shifts in tone or disturbing imagery[4]. There is also a strong sense of place-the “desert rock” aesthetic is not just a musical style but a thematic underpinning. The album conjures images of isolation, heat, and desolation, reflecting both the physical landscape of Homme’s origins and the emotional terrain of the songs[5]. Despite the darkness, there is an undercurrent of humor and self-awareness. The band’s willingness to embrace absurdity and play with genre conventions gives the album a unique personality, setting it apart from more self-serious rock contemporaries. --- ## **Influence** *Queens of the Stone Age* did not immediately revolutionize rock music, but it laid the groundwork for the band’s future impact[5]. The album bridges the gap between the stoner metal of Kyuss and the more accessible, genre-blurring sound that would define QOTSA’s later work. Its blend of heavy riffs, danceable grooves, and experimental production influenced a generation of rock bands seeking to escape the constraints of grunge and nu-metal. The record’s “desert rock” ethos helped popularize a scene that had previously been underground, bringing attention to bands that valued groove and atmosphere over technical flash. While not as commercially successful or critically acclaimed as later albums like *Songs for the Deaf*, the debut’s cult status has only grown over time, especially with the benefit of hindsight and reissues[5]. --- ## **Pros and Cons** | Pros | Cons | |---------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------| | Hypnotic, groove-driven riffs and rhythms | Vocals often too low in the mix; lack of confidence in delivery | | Inventive, atonal guitar work and dynamic drumming | Lyrics can be emotionally distant or hard to decipher | | Raw, energetic production captures the band’s live feel | Some tracks are repetitive or overlong | | Unique blend of stoner rock, krautrock, and proto-metal influences | Production can be muddy or uneven | | Dark, intriguing themes with flashes of humor and absurdity | Lacks the polish and ambition of later QOTSA albums | | Strong sense of atmosphere and place (“desert rock” aesthetic) | Not all band members who defined later sound are present | | A compelling look at the band’s evolution and roots | Can feel like a transitional work rather than a fully realized vision| --- ## **Conclusion** *Queens of the Stone Age* is a fascinating debut-raw, hypnotic, and brimming with potential. Its flaws are inseparable from its charm: the album’s rough edges, subdued vocals, and repetitive structures are as much a part of its identity as its sludgy riffs and locked-in grooves. While it lacks the swagger and ambition of later QOTSA releases, it remains an essential listen for fans of alternative and hard rock, offering a glimpse into the birth of one of the most influential bands of their generation[2][5]. For listeners seeking polished production and anthemic choruses, the album may feel underwhelming. But for those drawn to the darker, weirder corners of rock, *Queens of the Stone Age* offers a unique and rewarding journey-a scuzzy, desert-fried odyssey that still resonates more than 25 years after its release.
Fuzzy riffs, desert propulsion, and a hypnotic groove. A desert rocket that peters out toward the end
Great Album
Just some solid rock
Судя по всему это единственный альбом группы, что грустно, потому что другие их вещи мне кажутся сильно лучше, но это всё равно очень яркий альбом со своей уникальной (ну как бы Kyuss, но их тут скорее всего нет) атмосферой. Лучшая песня - Regular John.
I think if 1/3 of the album was cut completely it would have gotten closer to a 5.
Really enjoyed this album. It's not their biggest but it is very solid. I would listen again for sure.
Super cool, definitely gonna play a lot of this again
Nice
I've always liked this group, they're great at writing fun and catchy alt rock hits. This album's songs were pretty consistent, but I wish they didn't have several tracks of them waffling around on a repetitive riff. It made the one hour runtime seem undeserved
I have been going through some discographies and there is something I noticed about debut albums. Either the artist or band pretty much come out the gate swinging or it’s kind of forgettable and is only a footnote for the later albums. For this album, it falls into the former category. It certainly feels less like Queens of the Stone Age and more Kyuss, but it shows a nice transition point between the two bands. There’s a really cool blend of hard rock and funk, with a small hint of metal. It’s been said multiple times in the reviews, but it’s a shame that this is the only QOTSA album chosen for the list. No Rated R or Songs for the Deaf. It would have been nice to hear the band evolve into their better known efforts. Guess I’ll has to venture there myself. Favorite track: Avon Other hits: Regular John, If Only, Mexicola, Walkin’ On the Sidewalks, You Would Know
Yeah, good 90's grunge. This albums falls perfectly into the time spectrum... not overstaying the genre into the 2000's but firmly owning the sound.
Why do I like this so much? I thought this band would sound like Foo Fighters or something, I was expecting this to be shit. I really like it. It's controlled and laidback in a way I absolutely love. I totally forgot this band shares members with Kyuss. Really really enjoyed this. Didn't give it a 5 because the second half does drag on a bit compared to the first half but I still got a lot out of it.
This debut is just brimming with ideas and it rocks. I guess if I have to give an honest critique, I think the album would be even better with a little bit of editing. At times, things can sound a little same-y and sound more like ideas than fully fledged songs. Really, though, I’m comparing this album to the next few that come after it and so that might not be fair context.
Favorite Track: Regular John
Between a 7 and an 8 on this one. Favorite Songs: You Can't Quit Me Baby / Spiders and Vinegaroons
As much as i love qotsa this is not my favourite album. it has my favourite song of theirs though
I don't think we needed the three extra tracks on the reissue but they don't quite cost the album any stars here. It just feels more frontloaded with the added songs than the original release does.
I had never listened to any Queens of the Stone Age knowingly, and around the time this album came out, I was deep into down south rap. I’m always intrigued to go back to releases I missed while being into other genres, especially late 90s through mid 2000s. This album was fun and I enjoyed it, but I can't say I felt like I missed much by not hearing it at the time.
Laid back most of the time. It sounds great, but it lacks the thickness and intensity of tone that I want out of the stoner rock/doom genre. Basically Kyuss > QotSA Still an excellent album and one that I am enjoying jamming while getting some work done today.
Day414 - not the album from them i expected but it’s fun,kinda gross and it rocks
Cool album Another love song was a standout. Some interesting harmonies too
Intensives power geladenes Stone Rock Album. Es sind gut abgestimmte harte Gitarren Sounds mit interessanten Trance und Vocal Elementen. Kein Song ist wirklich langweilig. Jeder Song unterscheiden sich gerade soviel von den anderen, dass das Album insgesamt noch ein Kunstwerk ist. Die Sogs haben oft ein tolles finish. Tolle Songs sind „Regular John“, „Avon“, „If Only“, „Walking on the Sidewalk“, „The Bronze“ und mein Geheimtipp „Spiders on The Vineguaeds“.
Зроблю відео в ТТ)
I enjoyed this album a lot. Great rock and instrumentals
82% Best: If Only; How to Handle a Rope (A Lesson in the Lariat); You Can’t Quit Me Baby Must-Hear? I like it, but Songs for the Deaf should have been chosen over this. Therefore, no. Go listen to Songs for the Deaf.
I find it fascinating that if you're going to include only one QOTSA album on this list, the one they pick is the self-titled debut. Not to disparage the album in any means, but surely Songs For The Deaf stands as a bigger and more exciting album. Maybe because this was a somewhat fresh sound compared to everything else coming out at the time and SFTD feels more radio ready but still QOTSA vibe. Still a killer record, just questioning why this over another album from their catalog
Never really considerd this one of the better QOTSA albums which is why I found it interesting that this was here. Either way I'm not going to complain (as long as Like Clockwork and Songs For the Deaf are also here) 8/10
As always, QOTSA has a fantastic guitar sound... last couple songs wane on a little too long for me.
Very cool. Enjoyed this a lot.
This list has a habit of passing up an artist’s best work for the debut - it happened with Tom Petty, System Of A Down, Foo Fighters, and this. None of the debuts are bad albums, but the artists should have had different picks if they were only getting one. But anyway this is still pretty good. It feels different from their other albums in a way, probably because they were just getting started.
Ég hef svo oft hlustað á Songs for the Deaf en mun sjaldnar á þessa plötu. Ég fíla alveg Star Wars tilvísanirnar í lokin en það er fullmikið af bíbbum og búbbum til þess að ég geti gefið henni hæstu einkunn
liked songs: Regular John, The Bronze, Mexicola, Spiders and Vinegaroons This was a fun one. Very stoner-y, which is kind of the reputation that QOTSA has. I want to re-listen to this one with an edible. 3.75
The queens kinda of passed me by on the first try. I thought they were fine. After sitting for a compulsory album however I really like them.
Solid metall
This album is just plain fun to listen to. Kinda like driving through the desert with hot wind blasting and a mirage ahead of you. I understand about 20% of Josh Homme's voice whenever I listen to a QOTSA song if I'm not reading the lyrics, but that doesn't even matter here. This definitely should be experienced as an entire record.
Love qotsa i feel the desert!!!
Didn't realise there was an earlier album than rated R. Very much enjoyed it. Will be keeping in my music library for sure.
The small amount of QotSA that I've brushed up against never really tickled my fancy and the first spin of this record was no different. However, I really came around on the second listen. Lots of creativity on display amid the obvious chaos and noise.
Songs for the Deaf is just way better of an album. I enjoyed this album but it's not perfect.
Sort of timeless, sleazy rock. Very Josh Homme. Obviously. Not much depth, but not everything needs it. I enjoyed it, I’d listen to it again.
Kom mér ánægjulega á óvart, enda hafa kynni mín verið Greatest-hits-leg hingað til og það var ekkert lag hér sem ég mundi eftir að hafa heyrt áður. En þetta var skemmtilegt, hresst á köflum og aldrei leiðinlegt.
4.5
Good grungy rock. I like it.
Mexicola is one of my favourite songs. Other strong tracks on here but as always with QOTSA a fair bit of guff
groovy
Not my favourite QotSA album, but even a "not favourite" QotSA album is still good shit.
qotsa was always a band I associated with 2000s era hipsters, and this album is no exception. I was pleasantly surprised to find a good sense of experimentation and non-pop direction, although I think the album still needs a bit more of that to round itself out. Some songs are a bit repetitive, and I think the length of the album could be shorter, but overall, solid album.
I would guess that critics agree Songs for the Deaf is a better album, but this was easier listening
Not as good as their record from a few years later (Songs For The Deaf) but still good energy and strong rhythms that portend good things to come. "If Only" being a ripoff of The Stooges "I Wanna Be Your Dog" takes some of the shine of it being the best track, but there are other standouts. "Regular John", a more metal sounding "How to Handle a Rope", and "You Can't Quit Me Baby".
I liked this, but it's not my favorite Queens album.
I do love me some rhythmic heavy guitar jams. Maybe a bit overlong but it frickin' rocks.
2 of my favourite bands in a row. Love this album, I've always thought of it as a bit of an overlap between Kyuss' heavy stuff and QOTSA's later catchy sound, with a little bit of Josh Homme's weirder side coming through like on I Was A Teenage Hand Model and You Would Know. Plenty of crunchy and off kilter riffs that I associate with Josh's style of guitar playing. I personally wish they had gone with the earlier version of If Only from the Kyuss/QOTSA split EP though. Highlights: Mexicola, Regular John, You Would Know, How To Handle A Rope
good timing to be sullen and stoned
This one hit some feels today. Solid hard rock/stoner rock/post grunge album. If Only was a bit of a radio hit in the late 90s but I appreciate that song more now than in the late 90s. Mexicola is a flat out banger. Thin production and slight over length subtracts a star but I'm glad this one made the list. I wouldn't have been disappointed if more QOTSA albums made it but alas, this is the only one.
Not the QotSA album I would have expected - Rated R or Song for the Deaf should probably be here in its stead - but a good introduction to the band. Regular John is a great track, everything else is also pretty solid, but I will be a bit disappointed if this is the only time Josh and the gang feature on this list.
Just a really solid late 90's rock album
Strong 4, good vibe album
Sensational. Solid, driving rhythms. Interesting, sometimes hypnotic leads. Makes me wish I still got high. They've got better albums after this one I think but this is QOTSA announcing themselves. Four stars.
Solid 4. Need to listen to them more often.
I have always thought that if Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath had a love-child it would Queens of the Stone Age. There are some great tracks on this album, especially the distorted bass intro on Mexicola and You Can’t Quit Me Baby, which are two of my favorite tracks. This album is a solid entry point for their work and definite listen again.
Solid
Raw rockin' fun, which is what I expect from the Queens. Not as polished songwriting wise as Rated R or Songs For The Deaf right after this, but it's a great start. Some real bangers on here.
this fucks, not all of the songs are equally as good but the bangers are true bangers. I can't get over how simultaneously 90s AND current this sounds
A lot less harsh than I expected.
Good album. Rock on!
Like musical porridge
Liked this a lot. Melodic hard rock. Reminds me of Chris Cornell.
Never heard this before but it was familiar in a good way! Some plain fun rock and roll with a modern sound. I particularly liked "If Only".
This is not usually the Queens record I would reach for (Songs For The Deaf, Rated R and Like Clockwork would all be above it), but this is still a good time. Less hooks than their later stuff but still lots of very enjoyable hypnotic riffs.
I actually quite enjoyed this, I loved the kinda slow fuzzy guitar, the overall feel of it. Loved that there were instrumental tracks on it, the lyrics were interesting, the songs varied in their speed and overall feel, would listen to again.
Great
Songs For The Deaf would have been the best pick from this band. QOTSA definitely belongs on this list, but this album is not as good as the next ones. I am not saying it's bad, it's very good, but if it was SFTD it would have gotten 5 stars.
honestly seems like yet another questionable inclusion for the goals of the list but it also turns out i like this a Lot so i wont complain. its not too often u hear rock albums this Singleminded...the goal is to be Riffy and Buttery and it turns out thats kinda all u need! it honestly kinda took a bit to adjust to how un-ornamental it is...tho obviously its very easy to lock in once uve done so. it trusts the riffs, trusts the guitar tone, and its trust is well-placed. in that way it weirdly reminds me more then anything else of tony iommi, but ig he's already unintentionally the reason for all of stoner rock's existence
Good. They made a lot better music later on though.
I like the work these guys did in Kyuss better, but I can get into the groove.
Loved it way more than I remember it.
This album delivers a solid post-grunge Seattle sound that just works. The riffs are punchy, the grooves are tight, and there’s a gritty energy running through every track. It has that raw, no-frills rock vibe, but with enough hooks to keep things interesting. You can hear the influence of the Seattle scene, but Queens of the Stone Age puts their own stamp on it. The songs are straightforward but catchy, and the album never really loses momentum. If you’re into hard-hitting, unapologetic rock, this is an easy recommendation.
Whether in its initial or expanded versions, Queens of the Stone Age's debut album steamrolls in the rollicking manner that belies any kind of stasis. Chugging riffage throughout keeps the listener engaged as it wades through desert and potential marijuana smoke. Just make sure you have on your best pair of boots when strolling to this. Favorites: Regular John, Avon, If Only, You Would Know, How to Handle a Rope, Mexicola, Hispanic Impressions, You Can't Quit Me Baby, Give the Mule What He Wants.
Pretty solid rock.
This album is literally OOZING character. Queens of the Stone Age nailed it the first time, and then nailed it again the next couple times. I don't think this one's as good as Songs for the Deaf, but it doesn't make it bad by any means. Favorites are Regular John, The Bronze, and Mexicola.
This album is great, but I’m not happy with Mr Robert Dimery yet again. How could he place this on as QOTSA’s only inclusion. Rated R, Songs For The Deaf, and …Like Clockwork are better overall and any of them should have been included if they were to only get one spot. The debut does rip. Dusty riffs and walls of sound aplenty. Favorites are Regular John, If Only, Mexicola, You Can’t Quit Me Baby, and I Was A Teenage Handmodel.
Punchy and energetic. Still relevant and engaging.
If Only is goed!! 7/10
If we want to have a conversation about glaring omissions from this list, one of the ones that would shoot straight to the top of my list would be Songs for the Deaf by Queens of the Stone Age. It physically hurts me a little bit to know that it is not present. I want to talk about it so badly. In my opinion, it is the single most essential alternative rock album of the 2000s, other than In Rainbows. I could spend this entire review just going on and on about that album, so I’ll stop. Instead, we were given the bands debut. And you know what, I’m totally okay with that. That’s an acceptable replacement. And after hearing this, it’s now clear to me that Josh and his pals were really on top of the game from day one. Makes sense coming from the same man who was apart of Kyuss. From reading the reviews, it seems like some have this perception of their music as sluggish, laid back, and boring. Too repetitive and not interesting enough. But I think that those unfamiliar with who Josh Homme is as a person aren’t familiar with the particular kind of energy this band brings. Josh has always portrayed himself as this drunken and lazy persona, who may or may not be sober enough to be consciously aware of what he is saying. Their music is never really about the emotional connection it forms with the listener. It’s all about how much power and intensity they can cram into 45 minutes. Again, this is coming from the former guitarist of Kyuss. This man knows how to write wild, blood-pumping and driving riffs. Another thing you may notice about almost all of their albums is how loud they are. This debut proves to me that the production was excellent from the start. And really, all of the aspects that make their music so good are still here. I’ll admit that some parts maybe are a bit more repetitive than they need to be, but aside from the last song, I wasn’t bored at any point. The only edge this doesn’t have over their next albums is the drumming. But that’s because nothing can really compare to the work Dave Grohl did on Songs for the Deaf. It’s just not even close. What this album really marks is humble beginnings for the band. The more sophisticated ideas that are present moving forward aren’t present here, but this still manages to be an entertaining set of stoner rock bangers. Rating: 8/10
Josh Homme figuring things out on his way to writing his masterpiece (Rated R) is still better than most of the hard rock coming out in 98. Like, when this album came out, Limp Bizkit and Coal Chamber were main stage acts at Ozzfest. By comparison this is subtle, tasteful, and as far as music that solely exists to do gravity bong hits to, pretty smart sounding
Very strong.
I liked this quite a bit, and it's weird that I had never listened to this record before, it's got a lot of elements that match up with the sorts of things I like. It's possible it might be a five star with more listening, for now, I'll give it four stars.
The record that jacked up the price of cheap guitar practice amps worldwide... Full of aspirational guitar moves. Greasy in all the best ways.
Awesome stuff but songs for the deaf is better
Nice album - not much to comment on except the clicks and dialogue at the end of the last song were painfully loud. I can see pretty clearly where QotSA got their expansive sound, and I like how they've developed on it over time. In this album its quite raw and maybe that lends a charming, authentic quality to it that is more polished in their later albums.
Solid grungy album.
Decent hard rock. A bit stoner rock for me but not bad. 3.5 is probably more realistic but I’ll be generous.
I’ve listened to a couple other albums by this band but didn’t really get into them. This one was interesting enough that I will round up from a 3.5 to a 4.
Common list L not including the best album from an artist. How in the world was this chosen over Songs For the Deaf?? Also, …Like Clockwork should be on one of the revised versions of the list as it’s a masterpiece IMO. This album is fine. Desert rock QOTSA with those deep throbbing guitars. I like this kind of music so it’s a 4 for me. The other 2 albums I mentioned would probably be 5s
This was really poggers. Rips 90% of the time
Despite being a fan, I had never heard their debut before. This was a great opportunity to do so. I didn’t expect their sound to seem so fleshed out at this early stage, and so was pleasantly surprised. There’s something about the noise of their guitars that is truly satisfying, despite its simplicity. Feels like a radio station you’d have playing on a drive through a cactus filled desert. 🌵 Favourite track(s): Regular John, How To Handle A Rope
Great sound. Makes you want to ride through the desert on a Harley Davidson. Songs For The Deaf is my favourite album of theirs but this is still very good. Favourite track: Mexicola
Awesome album! Didn’t get through a lot of it.
Love Queens of the Stone Age. Unfamiliar with this album, and I enjoyed getting to know it.
I really like QOTSA and this album is a fantastic introduction to the band. However, after reviewing Wikipedia, apparently this is their only album that is included on this list - it makes me wonder if I agree with the inclusion of this album over others (arguably more impactful) in their catalog. But that is a quibble with the author of the list, and this album is undeniably good.
Soothe
Was not into it until The Bronze, then I turned around. Turned out to be a really fun, messy, wacky rock album. Some cool ideas like in Spiders and Vinegaroons where they take the concept and blow it to the wall with strange and eerie guitar riffs and scuttling legs with the drumsticks. I think I could go without the first few songs to get to the meat and potatoes quicker. Standouts: If Only, The Bronze (Bonus Track), How to Handle a Rope ( A Lesson in the Lariat), Mexicola, You Can’t Quit Me Baby, Give the Mule What He Wants, and Spiders and Vinegaroons.
8/10.
A banger of grungy and fuzzy guitars, unpredictable melodies of falsettos. Amazing riffs and thick arrangements. The more I hear of the Queens, the more I want to hear.
Wow haven’t heard this before (but have heard other “Queens” recordings), and I like it. A lot! For a first recording, it’s a keeper.
Fantastic debut album from an awesome band
Really good stuff
QOTSA has always struck me as a little flat, and this record is no exception. Pretty fun guitar-driven jams, but not a lot to get me excited. Three stars feels too low; four stars too high. Four it is.
Not as banging as their subsequent albums.but still banging
Love their raw sound
One of my favorite band's best records. Easy A here.
Raw vampire rock
Not bad
Pure 90s rock
Okay. QOTSA's debut: Insanely frontloaded. There is an amazing 8 track album here. 4/5 (because the standouts rock too hard)
Loud raunchy guitars, much riffing, interesting songs. I enjoyed the first half much more then the rest, but I like what Josh Homme is doing here, and really like his later efforts.
good
Love the tones here. It’s a cool album to throw on when you’re in the mood for grimy overdriven guitars. It doesn’t overdo it.
Maybe pretty good I just don’t wanna listen to the whole thing
I love QOTSA. Great album. "If Only" a stand out track. "I Was A Teenage Hand Model" was cool to listen to through my car speakers. Different sounds coming out from all different directions.
Excellent
Veel gitaren, maar wel lekker alternatief ook. Vond m wel heel vet eigenlijk
Already love Queens of the Stone Age. Great album.
I'm a pretty big QOTSA fan but have only ever listened to their first album once. On second listen I enjoyed it so much more. Full of bangers. Fav songs: - Regular John - Avon - If Only - The Bronze - Mexicola - Give the Mule What He Wants
rock and synth
I’ve run thru several QOTSA albums but have never listened to their debut. What an excellent debut this turned out to be, it’s evident they had their signature sound from the start. It’s weird, they manage to swiftly transition from sludgy drones to crisp sharp output, toss in a dash of sleaze to it and it’s a unique yet impressive recipe. Although Homme’s vocals do sound great, it sounds as though he’s holding back a touch, the snarl never does fully come out. Standouts include Regular John, If Only, How To Handle a Rope and Give the Mule What He Wants. Fucking slick debut 4 stars
A great listen, heavier than I expected.
I thought I had listened to this before but I remember it as being a bit more woozy and not as heavy. I might be getting it mixed up with Rated R though. Enjoyed the hypnotic groove, thought it was quite similar to Black Sabbath in places. Really hope to see Songs for the Deaf pop up. If it doesn't I'll riot
4/5 enjoyed all the unique sound
pretty vibey. not the best rock album but fun. enjoyed the more jammy sound which still retained a driving feel 4/5
A really solid album, but quite far from their best. Not much else to say about this one, it's a good record, no more no less
A bit surprised by how much I enjoyed this! Ballsy and straightforward.
I feel I'm being a little bit generous giving this four stars. It starts extremely well, but it tapers off a bit towards the end, possibly because I was listening to the reissue and not the original, tighter version.
Dope
Once again I question the wisdom of including a band’s debut album at the expense of their better efforts, especially when one or two of said better efforts are widely considered to be modern masterpieces. Still, their signature sound is almost fully formed here: deserty, hypnotic, robotic, groovy, melodic, heavy, and slightly weird. A few tracks, like Regular John, If Only and Mexicola, hold up well against their best work.
Iconic voice.
Here is a list of QotSA albums I would prefer to be on the list compared to their debut: Rated R, Songs for the Deaf, Era Vulgaris, and ...Like Clockwork. But I won't complain about having to revisit this one. Homme really emerged with his sound fully developed.
I always forget how great this debut is due to it having one of my least favorite cover art works of all time. Is it the one QotSA album I would have picked for this list? Probably not. Is it just as good a representation of the band as any of their other albums? Probably.
Rock solid album, but not the best from QOTSA. Regular John is a hell of a riff to start off with. Avon is cool sounding. It's interesting going back and actually listening to QOTSA albums how much Josh's vocals have changed. If Only is another fantastic riff. Walkin on the Sidewalks has a very uneasy feel on the verses that feels more like a stumble than a walk. The fuzzed out guitars on How To Handle A Rope are what I'm here for and the lyrics are interesting. Dig the outro solo. The bass intro on Mexicola is dirty as hell and builds the pacing well. Mexicola is a sweet riff too in a trip to a Mexican jail. You Can't Quit Me Baby has extremely uneasy lyrics with great instrumentation behind it.
My favorite of their catalogue this one hits you like a tonne of bricks and never lets up! I prefer the original order of the tracklist and original cover but that's just me!
Great album ! Pure stoner rock !
Hp
Für mich war es eine Premiere von "Queens of the Stone Age" ein Album zu hören. Und ich wurde nicht enttäuscht. Solider purer Rock ohne große Experimente mit vielen Soli, variabel und virtuos gespielt. Ein Album das ohne Schnörckel auskommt, ganz straight in die Vollen geht. Je länger das Album dauert, erinnert es auch an spacige Klänge wie Hawkind, aber das sind alles nur leichte Klangverfärbungen, es bleibt dennoch purer toller Rock.
What was I doing senior year of high school that I missed this album? Hot shit. Is Josh Homme secretly Julian Casablancas’ father? Is that a dude or a chick on the album cover? Are there really only two dudes playing on this album? Were there really queens in the Stone Age? Did Car Seat Headrest just blatantly rip these guys off?
2 songs in: Digging this way more than the 1 or 2 qotsa songs that are always on the radio. Really do NOT like the repeated riff throughout 80% of “You Would Know”, but the ending of it was pretty good and catchy. I like The Bronze too. Mexicola is solid, but goes on too long. Can’t quit me baby is excellent.
Didn't finish. It's good. I was just busy. Will come back to it
Desert, smooth, easy, cool, takes time
Great
ample amounts of distortion and fuzz. the contrast of the distortion with the “clean” vocals really works. great album. highlights: “you would know”, “mexicola”, “give the mule what he wants”.
I like this band. I like this album.
There really aren’t a ton of straight up rock and roll bands left - I’m glad Queens of the Stone Age is one of them. Wasn’t as familiar with this album as with their later stuff, but I enjoyed it and could hear the blueprint of where they were headed. This was cool.
If a stoner album hits good ,while deiving in a desert,then its a great album indeed. Super creative,psicotic,robotic,fuzzy. Great work by Josh and Alfredo. Must listen.
I'd never listened to QOTSA before, though I kind of knew what to expect after Josh Homme's collaborations with Iggy Pop (Post Pop Depression and the live album). I think this is a pretty strong album, particularly given this is a debut album.
Love Homme's voice and the opening track in particular, but only got through about 4 songs so need to go back and listen to the full thing again.
The first half of album was great; the second half was too jammy for me. I prefer to hear Josh singing.
I prefer some other albums over this one. First time I listened to this one though, kinda mellow compared to other albums of theirs.
For much of the album I had an internal conversation something like the following. "This isn't too bad, I kind of like it...You like it?!?...Yeah...Why?!?...I'm not sure...Well, it surprises me that you like it...I know, right...You still liking it?...Oh, this part is kind of irritating me. Is the record skipping and repeating the same guitar lick over and over?...Still not sure why you like this...I know, I not fully certain that I do, but there are moments when I really, really dig what I am hearing...Weird..."
Still finding their sound but a really good debut stoner-rock album.
Strong strong start with Regular John and especially Avon. Heavy, driving stuff. It's up and down after that but the good is good enough. You Can't Quit Me Baby another highlight. I listened to a reissue with extra tracks so won't fault the length. Listen on good headphones.
Classic rock album. Very decent, well written nice to instruments and signing. To me definitely not a game changer, but I understand it's cultural importance.
I don't hate this but I don't get it either. If I want metal I'd rather listen to Sabbath.
Excellent riffs - pretty straightforward but fun listen
Powerful sounds come from QOTSA, one of the bands I reviewed on a little fanzine when I was in my twenties. I hadn't listened to this album for several years, and I must say that it still retains the power of 90s rock.
Really solid sound. I didn’t like this originally, but it’s really grown on me over the years.
I honestly didn't know Queens... have been around since the mid-90s. And honestly, the music sounds ahead of its time. No particular song stands out better or worse than the rest, but I think that's what makes it work. This is an album I could have running in the background while talking among friends and no one would react one way or another. It's good neutral music.
Yeah. YEAH. I love me some QOTSA, but I'll admit I haven't given the self-titled album much of a shot. I became a fan of Josh Homme and the Queens on the Songs for the Deaf album. This band has been so consistently solid from this record to their latest release, "In Times New Roman." The only downside to this album is it's a little bit droning at times. The diet-grunge guitar and bass lines are lost in monotony at times.
Didn’t expect to enjoy that as much as I did! Great for a hungover Monday morning 3.5
I've always almost liked QotSA, but I'd never heard this album. This album I really enjoyed. Great variety and some unique sounds. Not too produced.
Wowzers! I thought this would be absolutely OK, serviceable, slightly irksome rock. I know later QOTSA pretty well and thought it was fine, but this is much better IMHO. The guitar and drums were really tight and fierce, but the thing that really stands out is the quality of vocals. Just fantastic. It was generally nice and varied, if possibly a tiny bit too repetitive to sneak into the five star bracket. Great stuff though.
Heavy, danceable rock that sounds like a modern take on Can. It's hardly controversial to say that this isn't their best album though. QOTSA were still establishing their sound at this point. Later albums including Like Clockwork or Era Vulgaris would have been easy 5s.
Negla. My jam.
One of the last of the great rock bands. I do kind of prefer Kyuss, but let's not be churlish. They proved that there was life after Nirvana, and Guns and Roses, though not as much as a rock fan might like. Strong songs, well played, with longish jams. Turn it up, grab your tennis racket, and air guitar for the rest of the night. Rock may not have much more to do, but it will never really die...
Ok music for hump day morning. Propulsive highly repetitive and fewlyrics. A bit hypnotic and slightly trance inducing. Like religion in way... You can let is wash by I wondered about the lyrics. They are mumbled or muffled. Reading them reveals little, it's minimal. Brief themes. Very simple, leaving the word to resonate, including pensive synonyms for noose. If I enjoyed this and wanted more of this, maybe this can be the gateway drug to trying Tool some more. Rounding up to 4 as I'd like to listen to more of them...
I am a huge Kyuss fan, and really liked the more rockin' QOTSA albums. I am surprised that this is the one QOTSA album on the list, and especially given that this album has been so hard to find, and made (frankly) little popular impression. But it is a bit of a transitional piece, with some recognizable Kyuss qualities (yay!) and a clear indication of where QOTSA was heading. Josh Homme's guitar and vocals are distinctive, and his penchant for a nice vocal melody make his work in the field of heavy rock stand out. I do get a bit tired with the way a lot of contemporary metal is either cookie monster screaming or operatic wailing (or both!). Homme writes and sings actual songs, you know? I am really surprised that they chose this record over 'Rated R' or 'Songs for the Deaf' (which are superior examples of this oeuvre, and also sold a gazillion copies, at a time when heavy rock was not entirely fashionable). I saw QOTSA at the Metro Theatre in 2001, touring on the back of 'Rated R', and they were awesome. They played a few songs from this record. I really liked how much Josh Homme was prepared to hold back on his playing in service to the song. For all of his reputation as a gun player, my recollection is he played a lot of the set like Johnny Ramone. Lots of fast downstroke power chords, and not many solos, because that was what required to rock the most. He opened up a bit at the end of the night, and tore it up (especially with the encore, which was my favourite Kyuss song, Supa Scoopa and Mighty Scoop) 4/5 would recommend, would listen again, would buy.
Didn't really stand out to me but it's a solid rock album
fun rock album
ik voelde m wel
Good but they've done better
3.5 rounded up. Not the QOTSA album I'd choose to have on here but some gems on it and some interesting sounds, textures, and production. Lots of raw energy and a great balance of aggression and catchiness on a lot of the tracks
I got into QOTSA through Lullabies to Paralyse, and have checked out basically everything they’ve done since but their debut, so this was an interesting experience. It’s a clear blueprint, everything that Josh Homme & Co. would go onto record is hinted at here, and so if you’re a fan then it’s well worth checking out. It’s interesting to see how well they had achieved their signature sound even by the first album, but also how they’ve allowed themselves to evolve it. And while I’m glad for the excuse to have finally get round to listening to it, the self titled isn’t the album I’d have picked to represent QOTSA on the list. Songs For The Deaf or Like Clockwork… would have been better choices
Really cool debut album! The band grow bigger over the years and I love most of their work. Josh Homs is very impressive on guitar and vocals and this is a very good starting point to discover the band! 8 out of 10
It's a fun album full of energy, great fuzzy guitars. Not their best but a very solid first release.
Not too shabby
QOTSA never really clicked with me before, but I enjoyed this a lot; I guess I was in the mood for it today. Some great sounding guitar in here, and I actually think Homme's voice suits the music well.
Great album, good bit of variety, nice instrument works. Good skills here from QotSA
So fun. Husband was right, I liked it!
Soft 4
Not the most polished nor varied Queens of the Stone Age album. Still some great riffs and hooks from a very young Josh Homme. I always loved Mexicola, Avon, and The Bronze.
4 stars.
Fantastic album, incredible band, just a bit long and the original artwork was better
This isn't the best of Queens of the Stone Age, but in terms of introducing their offbeat, almost villainous, sound this gets the job done. Definitely enjoyed, but not my favorite of their works.
Very nostalgic for me
yes purrr ate!
I like the Queens of the Stone Age and I like the album. That being said, I don't think this is their greatest album and I was surprised to find it in this kind of list. Still enjoyable, especially if you like this kind of music.
It had me until the very end of the very last track, than I was like WTF? But I won't let that ruin it for me. All in a very enjoyable listen. I could see myself coming back to it some day.
This was good.
I enjoyed it well enough. Wouldn't mind listening again sometime.
Good band. Good album
Not heard this album before and I quite like Queens of the Stone Age. I don't like it quite as much as the stuff of theirs I already know but their overall sound is as good as ever, with the screeching guitars and driving bass. Liked it. Standout Track: If Only
I love the more rawness of this album compared to some of later QOTSA albums. Some great tracks, Regular John, If Only, You can't Quit Me and Mexicola are some of favorite QOTSA tracks. Couple song like You would Know and Hispanic Impressions are kinda duds and the album get's a little repetitive, but what album by them doesn't. Still one of there better albums.
QotSA is a band I never think of listening to but always enjoy. They have a distinct sound but for some reason I always think of Blue Oyster Cult. I don’t know why.