[dropcap]B[/dropcap]rian May insists that Queen haven't become a "tribute band". The group were originally a four-piece band and though Freddie Mercury passed away in 1991 and bassist John Deacon retired in 1997, May belives they're still the real deal.
Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph he stated: "We ain't a tribute band, that's a no-brainer."
Drummer Roger Taylor also explained his thoughts, saying he's been in the band his whole life and so he considers it the same group.
He said: "We built Queen, we lived and breathed it, it is part of us and we are part of it."
Even though Freddie died over 20 years ago, Roger can sense his spirit when performing on-stage and sees live shows as a celebration of his talent.
"It still feels as if Freddie is with us, because his music is always there, his personality is on stage with us.
"He is part of our mental wallpaper, which can be a little bittersweet. I would say it took five years to get used to the fact that he was gone. But the fact is, he's not here, and we are celebrating and we salute him, and it's not maudlin at all."
Brian concluded by saying that the similarities between Adam Lambert and Freddie mean that they're still recognisable as a slightly camp and sometimes comical band.
"Freddie and Adam have a very similar attitude to life; a sense of humour and camp lightness of touch. Queen have a serious side but, really, that little bit of humour is what keeps everybody sane.
Roger added: "I think he [Freddie] would have approved. And I know he would have liked Adam."
