QUEENSRŸCHE have announced a world tour in celebration of the 35th anniversary of their landmark 1988 concept album "Operation: Mindcrime," considered by many to be the greatest concept album in metal history and the definitive artistic statement of the progressive metal genre. The tour, titled "Mindcrime Revisited 2026," will run from August through December 2026, covering North America, Europe, and select dates in Japan and Australia, with "Operation: Mindcrime" performed in its entirety at each show.
Frontman Todd La Torre, who has helmed the band since 2012 following the acrimonious departure of original vocalist Geoff Tate, has confirmed that the anniversary shows will include several theatrical elements that pay homage to the original 1988-1990 world tour that brought "Operation: Mindcrime" to audiences for the first time. Costume designs inspired by the original touring production have been confirmed, as has a stage narrative that will contextualize the album's story for first-time listeners while providing nostalgic elements for longtime fans.
The album — which tells the story of Nikki, a politically disillusioned young man recruited into a terrorist organization — features songs including "Revolution Calling," "Speak," "The Needle Lies," and the haunting "Suite Sister Mary," which features operatic vocals that remain one of the most distinctive moments in metal history. A bonus set of QUEENSRŸCHE classics including songs from "Empire" (1990) and "Promised Land" (1994) will follow each "Operation: Mindcrime" performance. US and Canadian dates go on sale March 21.