I don't know how many of you listen to "hard" rock, but the band Queensryche released a new CD today entitled American Soldier. It's a concept album based upon conversations of the band's lead singer Geoff Tate with American servicemen and women in airports, at concerts, really just about anywhere. Geoff went back to the band and they put together the thoughts and words from the perspectives of these soldiers, sailors airmen and Marines with music. The result is American Soldier. The band's songs are interspersed with recorded very personal thoughts of these brave men and women, talking about their experiences of watching their friends die, their guilt over things they saw and did. These are raw, in-your-face, true life experiences that have forever shaped, marked and scarred these young people.

As one who has worn the uniform of this great nation, I am grateful for what Geoff Tate and Queensryche are doing. It is with fierce pride in these brave souls that the lump forms in my throat when I listen to If I Were King and the tears form in my eyes when I watch the extremely touching representation of one Marine's feelings in the video. I offer the link here so you may view it. I caution you however, it's a real kick in the gut. I loved it. Thanks Queensryche, you ROCK!

www.americansoldieralbum.com