Back in 1982 the mighty Judas Priest released the epic masterpiece that is “Screaming For Vengeance”. The album broke them big time in the States and catapulted them to the top of the world Metal tree. Powerfully opening with “The Hellion” and “Electric Eye”, the opus flexes its muscles and goes from strength to strength.
“Riding on the Wind” blasts in punches you in the face and “Bloodstone” is pure Heavy Metal. “(Take These) Chains” and “Fever” are more single orientated affairs, geared up for radio. “Pain And Pleasure” and Title track Screaming For Vengeance are just pure Priest. As the Riff for “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming” thunders in, it’s hard to believe that this track was just a last minute addition, but this was the song picked up by the American radio stations and played continuously. The longest track on the album is the 7 minute metal epic “Prisoner Of Your Eyes”, and “Devils Child” is just a phenomenal rock classic that most bands would kill to write.
The 30th anniversary edition CD boasts live tracks recorded on the American Tour at San Antonio Civic Center, San Antonio, on the 10th September 1982. They are “Electric Eye”, “Riding on the Wind”, “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming” and “Screaming For Vengeance”. Whilst “Devils Child” was recorded Live at Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, Tennessee on the 12th December 1982.
Also part of the package is a Bonus DVD of a concert filmed and recorded at the second US Festival, Devore, San Bernardino, California, 29 May 1983.
If your old copy is wearing thin then get this as it the dogs!
Words and photos by Dan O’Gara.
