Once the promotions for “Invincible Shield” started with the release of the first singles, the average listeners and fans seemed to get excited. Will this reaction accompany the release of the album?
The answer to the above is an emphatic “yes”. Continuing a very good streak after “Firepower” and previously “Redeemer Of Souls”, Judas Priest once again show us “how it’s done”. With granite sound and production, “Metal God” in form with its characteristic screams causing goosebumps and endless energy, but also inspiration, they put up a serious candidacy for a top position in this year’s best album.
Undoubtedly, the freshness of Richie Faulkner, who already counts 13 years in the band, and Andy Sneap, in the role of producer and sometimes guitarist, play their part. They are two important pillars who are well aware of the tradition and identity of the band, which was forged alongside the giant smokestacks, pitch-black fumes and constant noise pollution of the Birmingham industry that was in its peak when Priest and not just them, were born.
There are some hints of the ’70s and ’80s that don’t go unnoticed, you’ll notice them I am sure, but the biggest thing is that the band sticks firmly to their roots without missing out on more modern elements and new ideas. The guitar work and solos range from very good to excellent, and once again I must say that Rob Halford is in great shape for his age. Sure, he doesn’t scream throughout the album like he does on “Panic Attack,” but he’s certainly commanding.
Many may be surprised by “The Lodger”, which closes the deluxe edition of the album (and was released on 7-inch) and has very little in common with what preceded it. Actually, it may not have too much in common with Judas Priest, but this is another example of the boldness and charm of this band, who never stop experimenting, no matter what the result. Remember “Lochness”…
On the other hand, you can’t help but feel the hair on your back rising listening to “Gates Of Hell” (“it’s a long way down to purgatory”) , you can’t help but raise your fist in the air when you reach to “Sounds Of Thunder”, which, it should be noted, was written by Glenn Tipton -as well as “Escape From Reality”- and you can’t help but be eagerly awaiting the summer to see them in person again…
Finally, I think twenty is a very nice and kind of a landmark number, so this is definitely not their last album. After all, if they are still capable of such a good performance and offering such quality, why the hell not?
