JUDAS PRIEST Launches ‘Shield Of Pain’ Tour Celebrating 35th Anniversary Of ‘Painkiller’ Album

JUDAS PRIEST Launches ‘Shield Of Pain’ Tour Celebrating 35th Anniversary Of ‘Painkiller’ Album

Released in 1990, *Painkiller* is widely regarded as one of Judas Priest’s most influential and powerful albums. It marked a significant evolution in their sound, embracing a heavier, more aggressive style that helped define the heavy metal genre for years to come. With tracks like the title song “Painkiller,” “A Touch of Evil,” and “Night Crawler,” the album showcased Rob Halford’s soaring vocals, K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton’s searing guitar work, and Scott Travis’s thunderous drumming. Its 35th anniversary is a perfect occasion for the band to revisit this landmark in their discography.

**The ‘Shield Of Pain’ Tour: A Celebration of Metal**

The tour, aptly named ‘Shield Of Pain,’ is set to kick off in late 2024, with dates planned across North America, Europe, and other regions. The name symbolizes both the resilience of the band through decades of metal battles and a nod to the album that cemented their status as metal icons. Fans can expect a setlist heavy on *Painkiller* classics, interwoven with fan favorites from their extensive catalog.

**Setlist and Stage Production**

Given the significance of *Painkiller*, Judas Priest has promised a setlist that prominently features songs from the album. Expect to hear the thunderous opening of “Painkiller,” with its iconic double bass drums and soaring vocals. The band is also expected to perform “All Guns Blazing,” “Leather Rebel,” and “Between the Hammer and the Anvil.” In addition, they will include other hits like “Breaking the Law,” “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’,” and “Electric Eye” to satisfy fans of their broader discography.

The stage production is anticipated to be spectacular, incorporating elaborate light shows, pyrotechnics, and visual effects that evoke the album’s intense energy. Rob Halford’s commanding presence, combined with the band’s tight performance, will likely make each show a memorable experience.

**Reunions and Special Guests**

Over the years, Judas Priest has seen a few lineup changes, but for this anniversary tour, the band is expected to feature core members Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, and Ian Hill. K.K. Downing, one of the original guitarists, has participated in past reunion shows, and there is speculation about his involvement in the tour or special guest appearances.

In addition, the band may invite other metal legends or contemporary artists to join for select performances, creating unique collaborations that honor the genre’s legacy.

**A Reflection of Resilience and Legacy**

Judas Priest’s career spans over five decades, marked by influential albums, groundbreaking tours, and a loyal global fanbase. The *Painkiller* album, in particular, is often credited with redefining heavy metal’s boundaries and inspiring countless bands. Celebrating its 35th anniversary with this tour not only commemorates a pivotal moment in metal history but also showcases the band’s resilience in continuing to deliver powerful live performances.

**Fan Anticipation and Ticket Sales**

News of the ‘Shield Of Pain’ tour has sparked excitement among metal fans worldwide. Tickets are expected to sell out rapidly, reflecting the enduring popularity of Judas Priest and the timeless appeal of *Painkiller*. Many fans are reminiscing about their first experiences hearing the album and are eager to witness the band perform these classics live once again.

**Legacy and Future Prospects**

While Judas Priest has announced this special tour, the band has historically been committed to touring and recording new material. Though the focus for this event is celebrating *Painkiller*, fans hope that the band will continue to perform and create new music in the years to come.

In conclusion, Judas Priest’s ‘Shield Of Pain’ tour is set to be a milestone event in the heavy metal world. It offers a chance for fans to celebrate the band’s enduring legacy, relive the intensity of *Painkiller*, and experience the raw power of one of metal’s most influential acts. As the band prepares to hit the road, anticipation builds for a series of unforgettable nights filled with legendary music, energy, and metal camaraderie.

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