Operation: Mindcrime is a concept album created by the American progressive heavy metal band Queensrÿche. Released on May 3, 1988, it is the band's third studio album. The album narratively follows Nikki, a recovering drug addict, who becomes disillusioned with a corrupt society and joins a revolutionary group to carry out assignments given to him by a mysterious figure named Dr. X.
The album was a significant departure from Queensrÿche's previous work, featuring a layered, complex narrative and a more mature style of songwriting that showcased a band at the height of its creative powers. The songs, in conjunction with interludes of spoken word and sound effects, form a cohesive storyline that explores themes of political corruption, religious disillusionment, mental manipulation, and revenge.
Operation: Mindcrime is widely considered one of the greatest concept albums of all time, and a high point in the rock opera genre. Despite its initial modest commercial success, it eventually garnered both critical acclaim and a substantial cult following. The album was certified Platinum in the U.S. by the RIAA.
The band performed the album in its entirety on tours in 1990–91 and 2006, also recording a live album and video release of its performance, and it enormously boosted the band's popularity over the course of the following decade.
Overall, Operation: Mindcrime stands as one of Queensrÿche's most significant achievements, a compelling and ambitious trip into the world of philosophical rock.
