Lets Celebrate 34 Years Of This Great Album. On the 14th September 34 years ago, Judas Priest released what I believe is one of the greatest metal albums ever. Painkiller.
When we think of Painkiller we immediately think of the title track, with its thunderous drum intro played by newest member of band Scot Travis. Then we have a demonic scream by Rob with enough power to make your ears explode, throw in one of the best metal riffs ever. Then finally, Glen Tipton’s guitar solo. I have always maintained introduced sweep picking long before the likes on Yngwie!
So I thought we should have a quick look at the riffs from lesser featured songs on Youtube in celebration of its 34th birthday.
First up is All Guns Blazing, a powerful track which is a great example of the standard sound for them. Iron Maiden have the gallop, Judas Priest love the quick chord changes in a chugging riff.
Next up Hell Patrol: Rock steady rhythm that does the job nicely. Learn this riff just for the triplet rhythm feel.*
Next we have Between The Hammer and Anvil.
Has a very unusual start for a Priest song but then settles into a driven rock riff.
Finally One Shot At Glory
Very standard rock riff, however I feel the song is more a platform for the guitar solos.
Now lets be honest how many of these songs have you played recently?
I know I haven’t. I am guilty as the next I just seem to stop after Painkiller. That just seems to be the way it is now when using apps like Spotify. We dip and dip out quickly.
So I hope this has inspired you to take a deep look at the album on its 34th birthday!
