With all the news of Dio, the Big Four, and Ozzy, fans may have lost track of one of America’s most influential progressive-metal outfits, Queensrÿche. Well, get this: upon visiting the band’s website, fans are greeted with an intimate invitation to an adults only Queensrÿche cabaret. Taking place in February at the Snoqualmie Casino in Washington, the event will feature the five-piece performing hits from their 25-year career and never-heard-before selections accompanied by go-go dancers, burlesque dancers, drag queens, a juggler, a ballet dancer, an aerial artist, a contortionist, and much more. First thought: Oh what fun. The second: Where is this new music coming from?

Just this last week, Queensrÿche signed a multi-album, worldwide deal with Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records. According to founding member Geoff Tate, “[Roadrunner] is the rock label and a place where they are as excited about our music as we and our fans are.” Dream Theater, Korn, Rob Zombie, Killswitch Engage, Megadeth, Slipknot, and Soulfly are just a few of the rock/metal bands that currently release under Roadrunner/Loud & Proud.

According to a press release, Queensrÿche tentatively plans for their 12th studio album to be released some time during Spring 2011. No details have currently been released, but if you want to get a sneak peak (literally), make sure to obtain your tickets early for the cabaret.