Angel Of Retribution / Judas Priest (2005)

1. Judas Rising

2. Deal With The Devil

3. Revolution

4. Worth Fighting For

5. Demonizer

6. Wheels Of Fire

7. Angel

8. Hellrider

9. Eulogy

10. Lochness

In 2003, the news of the reunion of Judas Priest and Rob Halford ran through the world. Luckily, I was able to see their concert at Ozzfest 2004. It was truly a greatest hits live. I could not deny that they were all getting old, but they played with all of their heart. It was astonishing live. When it was announced that they were making a new album, I was half excited and half worried. Halford and the band both wandered off from the music that fans expect them during 90's. Can they still make pure metal? Soon after the release, I learned that my fear was needless.

From track 1, they made a strong statement with the message and music of the song. Judas Priest has returned!! This album really summarized their whole career, they put out what fans really expected. 

1. Judas Rising

A powerful opening number. It is not fast but has a strong message in music and lyrics.

2. Deal With The Devil

One of my favorites in this album. Obviously, his high tone voice is not as strong as it used to be. No one can fight against their age (Bruce Dickinson is very exceptional). But, he still has strong mid-range voice.

3. Revolution

The lead single. A nice mid-tempo song that reminds me of songs from "British Steel" or "Screaming For Vengeance". 

4. Worth Fighting For

This song has the mood of their earlier career in 70's.

5. Demonizer

I was bit surprised with this song. This song can be in "Demolition" or "Jugulator". But, the guitar solo is very straightforward metal.

6. Wheels Of Fire

This is another song has the feeling of their early 80's albums. 

7. Angel

In their career in 70's, ballad songs were essence of this band. They made another great ballad song. This song is really dramatic and moving. The arrangement is very similar to the acoustic version of "Diamond And Rust".

8. Hellrider

As they have created monsters in their songs, they created another one. This is another killer tune that is comparable to songs such as "Painkiller" or "Night Crawler". 

9. Eulogy

This is a song that flows into the next song. It is very dark yet dramatic.

10. Lochness

The most progressive song they ever have written. I think this song really summarized their career. This song has such big scale. It is dramatic, dark, and sometimes even mysterious. This is a kind of song they have never done before.

Overall, they did everything that they were expected as "Judas Priest". However, the great point of this album is that it is not just nostalgia. They still have enthusiasm as musician and strong will to challenge themselves as musician.

☆☆☆☆☆