Alpharetta, GA (3/25/22) – Judas Priest had been out on the road back in September of 2021 celebrating “50 Heavy Metal Years.” Having attended their show in Charlotte, NC on 9/13/21 (see coverage here) it seemed nothing could stop the legendary band as they powered through decades of classic metal songs. However, just two weeks later guitarist Richie Faulkner would have some health conditions that put an immediate hold to the tour. Now having recovered and ready to rock the band has embarked on a second leg of shows with rescheduled/added dates. Sabaton had been the guest openers for the first run of dates. Queensryche has joined the tour for the current list of shows.
Queensryche is a band that I feel hasn’t gotten their deserved credit. They have sold nearly 6 million albums in the USA and 20 million worldwide along with Grammy Nominations. Their album “Operation: Mindcrime” is a concept album that is considered by many to be one of the best. After the mid 90’s though it seems mainstream radio hasn’t really backed the group. Having formed in 1980 Queensryche has managed to maintain a loyal core group of fans that introduce new generations to the music. With a career spanning 42yrs and counting the band is probably most known for their hits “Jet City Woman” and “Silent Lucidity” but there is much more to their musical catalog. The current line up consists of original members Michael Wilton (guitar) and Eddie Jackson (bass) along with Mike Stone (guitar), Casey Grillo (drums) and lead singer Todd La Torre. Any diehard supporter of the band would definitely recognize the metal brandishing of songs such as “Queen of The Reich,” “Walk In The Shadows” and “Eyes of a Stranger” that filled tonight’s set. Duel guitar work and vocals that command your attention drive the bands energetic live show. Definitely a must see group for any metal fan. Having seen the group perform 2yrs ago in a club atmosphere it was great to see the band on a much larger amphitheater stage and how they drew everyone into their performance.
Currently on the 14th night of a 24 show tour, with a stop at the Ameris Bank Amphitheater, Judas Priest showed no signs of slowing down. Members Ian Hill, Scott Travis and Richie Faulkner would take their places on a stage designed to look like a metal factory. Also joining them would be Andy Sneap making his return due to some fan backlash upon hearing the decision that the group had planned not to have him out for the current shows. As the lights raised the band kicked off the set with “One Shot At Glory” the iconic frontman, Rob Halford, would take his place belting out his instantly recognizable vocals. Filling the night with hits such as “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming” and “Turbo Lover” fans sang along as they pumped fists in the air. Many in attendance were happy to hear some older, deeper cuts as well such as “Rocka Rolla.” “Painkiller” is always a standout song as well.
The veterans of metal moved smoothly through out the show. Crowd members received plenty of guitar action as Richie and Andy traded moments of face melting solo work. You can’t let the guitar work overshadow the musical prowess of Scott and Ian as they are definitely the drivers of the music.
As fans chanted “Priest, Priest, Priest” the group would return to the stage for a 5 song encore. “Hell Bent For Leather” would provide one of fans memorable moments for the evening as Halford rode his motorcycle on to the stage. Upon the songs end Halford would pause for a moment to reflect on original member Glenn Tipton’s contributions to the band just before Tipton himself would make a surprise appearance. Glenn would join the band performing ‘Metal Gods,” “Breaking The Law” and “Living After Midnight” before joining the full band center stage with a bow of thanks to those in attendance. Recently it has been confirmed by Halford that the band is currently working on a new album. With a more progressive sound the album will provide yet another element of the band to their long time supporters.
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Copyright Michael Bragg/MJBragg Photography
