ALMOST QUEEN MARKS 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH "ALMOST" - A POIGNANT TRIBUTE TO THE TRIBUTE

20th Anniversary Single Explores the Beautiful Paradox of Tribute Artistry

NEW YORK, NY — How do you measure the distance between tribute and truth? Almost Queen, marking twenty years of exploring this question through their dedication to Queen's music, announces "Almost" — an original song that embraces the beautiful contradiction at the heart of tribute artistry. The single debuts as a 7-inch vinyl release with accompanying music video.

Written and produced by the band's lead guitarist Steve Leonard, "Almost" emerged from an unexpected source of inspiration. During a chance post-show conversation with Gloria Jones—the original voice behind "Tainted Love," former vocalist/keyboardist for Marc Bolan's T. Rex and coincidentally "The Queen of Northern Soul"—Jones suggested that Almost Queen consider creating original music in Queen's style while maintaining their unique identity. That pivotal conversation sparked what would become "Almost," a personal reflection on the beautiful impossibility of recreating the magic of Queen.

"Every night, we stand in the shadows of giants," Leonard explains. "This song acknowledges the inherent contradiction in what we do — striving for an unattainable perfection while finding our own voice in the process. It's about the joy, struggle, and ultimately the honor of keeping this music alive, knowing we can only ever come 'Almost' close to the original brilliance."

Since 2004, Almost Queen — Joseph Russo (Lead Vocals/Piano), Steve Leonard (Lead Guitar), John Cappadona (Drums), and Randy Gregg (Bass) — has navigated this philosophical tightrope and set the standard for Queen tribute performances, delivering sold-out shows across North America. While meticulously recreating Queen's sound and spectacle, they've always maintained a humble appreciation for the insurmountable talent they emulate. The song's chorus captures this universal experience: "I'd like to raise a toast to chasing down a ghost / That's impossible to find, only one of its kind / and together I think we found it... Almost."

"Almost" will be released as a collector's 7-inch vinyl edition, available at performances and online, and an accompanying music video featuring both performance footage and behind-the-scenes moments that capture the band's 20 year journey. The B-side features "10-4 Good Buddy" by Fractal Sasquatch, a song that has become an integral part of Almost Queen's shows over the past decade as their signature exit music. This marks the first time this fan-favorite closing tune has been officially released.