Angel of Retribution

Judas Priest

This Judas Priest release includes a DVD with the 30 minute Reunited documentary that lays the ground work for first new music from the original lineup in 15 years. From the slow crescendo of guitar and a scream at the beginning, this new outing from the reformed and re-invigorated Priest states one thing very clearly: The band is back and ready to reclaim their crown as hard rock titans. The songs, production, and performances are all on par with classics such as British Steel and Screaming For Vengeance. And the album definitely makes references Priest’s past, from the opening screech of "Judas Is Rising" to more direct lyrical name-checking (Painkiller in "Demonizer" and Sad Wings of Destiny in "Angel"). But there is a newer experimentation - a slower, darker streak - also evident on Halford’s underrated Crucible, that lets the listener know the band is not resting on its laurels. The is very evident on the 10 minute closer "Lock Ness", an epic on par with songs off Opeth’s masterful Deliverance. Make no mistake: The Metal Gods are definitely back. --Robert Arambel

Angel of Retribution Album: