If there was an album we were all looking forward to this year, it was “Invincible Shield” by JUDAS PRIEST, out on March 8th, 2024, via Sony Music. Not only because of the big name this band carries but also because it promises to become a classic in JUDAS PRIEST‘s career. After a 6-year hiatus with no new albums since their previous release “Firepower” (2018), which featured the band’s touring guitarist Andy Sneap as the producer, resembling the band’s ’80s era, expectations were high. The nostalgic quality of “Firepower” set a precedent, and it turned out that “Invincible Shield” followed in its footsteps, with Sneap once again at the helm of production, creating a masterpiece that captures JUDAS PRIEST‘s signature sound.
The band built anticipation for this album by releasing four singles before the official release date on March 8th: “Panic Attack,” “Trial by Fire,” “Crown of Horns,” and “The Serpent and the King.” These tracks indeed capture the overall essence of “Invincible Shield,” integrating its key elements: Rob Halford‘s deep voice, electrifying guitar solos, and powerful yet melodious compositions.
“Invincible Shield” kicks off with “Panic Attack,” a powerful track reminiscent of “Painkiller.” The song’s intense sound transports the listener back to the ’80s era, beginning with a soft guitar solo that quickly escalates into a chorus delivered with Halford‘s signature deep shout. “Panic Attack” energizes listeners with heavy drums colliding against strident guitars.
Following is “The Serpent and the King,” which immediately captures the listener’s attention with deep vocals accompanied by strong drums, guiding them through a sonic journey of old-school heavy riffs. This track maintains the stamina set by “Panic Attack” and leads into another fierce piece: “Invincible Shield.” As the titular track of the album, it stands out as one of the best works. “Invincible Shield” starts with a blend of thunderous drums and blistering guitar solos, then follows a melody characterized by strident instrumentation and vocals. The verses gradually layer the instruments into the background before thrusting them back to the forefront in the form of electrifying guitar solos, akin to witnessing a heavy metal ritual. We eagerly anticipate experiencing it live and immersing ourselves in the full glory of this musical mass.
“Escape From Reality” surprises the listener with a strong riff accompanied by Halford‘s vocals, delivering powerful lyrics in the chorus with a forceful shout that adds intensity to the repertoire. Taking a different approach, “Sons of Thunder” appears to be influenced by rock and roll, featuring extended solos and a chorus incorporating various voices singing in unison—an arrangement perfectly suited for live interaction between the band and the audience.
Moving on to “Giants in the Sky,” it blends elements of ballad rock, transitioning between heavy and soft passages, even including an acoustic guitar solo that, amidst electric riffs and Halford‘s growls, gives the song a bohemian touch unexpectedly. In contrast, “Fight for Your Life” employs a more traditional formula, utilizing Halford‘s vocals alongside guitar solos and powerful drums to keep listeners engaged and eagerly anticipating what comes next.
The final two songs, “Vicious Circle” and “The Lodger,” complement each other with contrasting soundscapes. While “Vicious Circle” features a prominent guitar throughout, energizing the listener, “The Lodger” evokes a gloomier vibe with smooth guitar rhythms, accompanied by Halford‘s deep, mysterious vocals in the chorus. “Vicious Circle” awakens us, whereas “The Lodger” induces a tranquil state of mind. Together, they serve as the perfect conclusion to JUDAS PRIEST‘s splendid comeback, leaving listeners captivated by the band’s diverse range and mastery of their craft.
Written by Hector Sanchez
Tracklist
- Panic Attack
- The Serpent and the King
- Invincible Shield
- Devil in Disguise
- Gates of Hell
- Crown of Horns
- As God Is My Witness
- Trial by Fire
- Escape from Reality
- Sons of Thunder
- Giants in the Sky
- Fight of Your Life
- Vicious Circle
- The Lodger
Lineup
Rob Halford | vocals
Glenn Tipton | guitars
Richie Faulkner | guitars
Ian Hill | bass guitar
Scott Travis | drums
Label
Sony Music Entertainment
