How do they do it?! Judas Priest, in their mid 60’s, are just as exciting and exhilarating as they were in the 80’s. Yes, there is a pinch of down tuning due to Rob Halford’s age. But we’re only talking about a half step down from originals. Halford has done a remarkable job of taking care of his voice. The result? Barely any down tuning and a clear, youthful sounding voice. Most bands at this age, with the exception of Iron Maiden, Def Leppard and a few others, are down tuning two or two and half steps down. This can make some of our favorite songs sound either muddy or uninspired (KISS anyone?). Many older bands are out touring when they should call it day. Judas Priest on the other hand have many many years left of creative and inspired work. Even after they said they were going to slow down after 2012’s epitaph tour. There are no signs of slowing down for these guys. If Redeemer of Souls didn’t prove that, then this live album does. Halford’s shrieks are as powerful as ever. Every note is hit perfectly and clearly. The guitar tones are full and clean. Scott Travis’ drums sound as big as they did on the Painkiller album. And the addition of Richie Faulkner brings extra shreddage to the mix. As I’ve said before, Judas Priest are the Sun of metal. All other genres revolve around them in different distances and paces; some bigger than others. Either way Priest have taken their rightful place in the metal story and Battle Cry (Live at Waken) is the perfect document of that space. Check out this amazing version of Painkiller.
Judas Priest – Battle Cry (Live at Wacken)
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