I believe it’s agreed amongst many a Queens of the Stone Age fan that ‘In the Fade’ is arguably the best track on Rated R. It’s one that the band have never been able to replicate in terms of style, mood or execution since its release almost 20 years ago, and I think that stands as a testimony to its uniqueness. Mark Lanegan sings it, not the first time as he appears on the album as he backs in both ‘Leg of Lamb’ and ‘Auto Pilot’. Coming after Nick Oliveri’s screeching on the previous track, Lanegan’s deep and gravelly vocals are like butter to the ears.

It takes a while for the song to kick in. There’s a lone buzzing tone that fades into some keyboard chords and an echoing sound that I can’t describe. Lanegan sings the first few lines and after an open hi-hat and cymbal crash the track gives way to a fantastic groove led by Oliveri’s tremendous bassline. There’s a perfect mellow feel the music captures without it being too lazy, it’s a definite head-nodder/toe-tapper so it’s a definie bonus when the harder guitars join in for the more forceful choruses.

Think I read somewhere that it’s about suffering from a hangover? It may also just be about having to leave someone and knowing that it’s what’s best for the both of them. I’m not sure I’ve never cared for its meaning that much, I’m just one of those people. When it comes down to it really, it’s just a brilliant song. Great guitar tones, bass grooves and vocal harmonies/melodies are on full display. And there’s a little reprise of ‘Feel Good Hit of the Summer’ at the end.