Rated R

Queens of the Stone Age's sophomore album, Rated R, is a groundbreaking masterpiece that catapulted the band to mainstream success upon its release on 6 June 2000. As the band's first album on a major label, Interscope Records, Rated R marked a significant milestone in their career, introducing their unique blend of stoner rock and alternative rock to a wider audience.

This 12-track album is a testament to the band's innovative approach to music, featuring an eclectic mix of instrumentation, including the vibraphone, which adds a distinctive texture to their heavy desert-rock sound. With tracks like 'Feel Good Hit Of The Summer', 'The Lost Art Of Keeping A Secret', and 'Monsters In The Parasol', Rated R showcases the band's ability to craft infectious, high-energy songs that are both catchy and sonically experimental.

Rated R has been widely acclaimed by critics and fans alike, earning its place as one of Rolling Stone's top 100 albums of the decade. The album's success can be attributed to the band's newfound chemistry, with bassist Nick Oliveri and vocalist Mark Lanegan joining forces with singer-songwriter Josh Homme to create a truly unforgettable sound.

With its release, Rated R exposed Queens of the Stone Age to a broader audience, and the album's impact has been lasting. The band's subsequent albums, including Songs for the Deaf and Lullabies to Paralyze, have further solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting rock bands of their generation. Rated R remains a seminal work in Queens of the Stone Age's discography, a must-listen for fans of stoner rock and alternative rock.