A Night at the Opera cover

A Night at the Opera

Released

Such is the power, cachet and sheer entertainment value of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the Freddie Mercury-written piano spotlight ballad turned epic arena rock triumph, that Queen’s fourth album is nearly overshadowed by it. But 1975’s A Night At The Opera, in aiming to be all things for all people, created a world of its own that most actual concept albums couldn’t reach. Brian May’s winsome “‘39,” the John Deacon-written easy groove of “You’re My Best Friend” and Roger Taylor’s earnestly theatrical “I’m In Love With My Car” and more easily showcase everyone.

Ned Raggett

Recommended by

Suggestions
Ssssh cover

Ssssh

Ten Years After
Vision Thing cover

Vision Thing

The Sisters of Mercy
Funeral cover

Funeral

Arcade Fire
Merrie Land cover

Merrie Land

The Good, the Bad & the Queen
No Dice cover

No Dice

Badfinger
Gentlemen cover

Gentlemen

The Afghan Whigs
Anyway You Love, We Know How You Feel cover

Anyway You Love, We Know How You Feel

The Chris Robinson Brotherhood