30 years ago, on September 3rd, 1990, heavy metal band Judas Priest released the album Painkiller. It’s one of the most perfect metal albums ever made, all killers no fillers, just a massive display of power on guitars, drums, and vocals.
This is the 12th studio album by the band, and the last to feature singer Rob Halford for the next 15 years. The release of the album was delayed by a few months because of the infamous subliminal message trial that involved the band.
Track listing
01. Painkiller
The album starts with a bang, a thunderous drum intro by new member Scott Travis, formerly of the band Racer X. The addition of the double-kick specialist added a dose of heaviness the band never reached before, and it’s the signature of this album.
Heavy drums, screaming vocals, and dual guitar attack, this song has it all. It has become one of the most well-known songs of the band, and it’s an essential classic in heavy metal music.
02. Hell Patrol
Slower but more melodic than the first song, this is one of the best songs on the album. The guitar riffs are memorable and the use of the classic 6/8 meter rhythm gives it an infectious groove. Halford shows a wide range in his voice, going from smooth low harmonies to the high screaming chorus.
03. All Guns Blazing
Increasing the tempo a notch, this is a great headbanger with a sing-along chorus to please the crowd.
04. Leather Rebel
Another push in the tempo, a speed metal riff, and a double bass drums attack. On this one Halford chooses a more menacing voice instead of the screaming vocals, it fits the mood of the song perfectly.
05. Metal Meltdown
This song is exactly what its title says. It’s pure madness and aggression, one of the most intense songs on the album. The intensity only stops for a few seconds near the end, only to prepare us for the insane ending.
06. Night Crawler
After moments of insanity, this song brings us back to the slower and melodic side of the album. Another stand out track with riffing mastery from guitarists Glenn Tipton and K. K. Downing. This song would fit perfectly in a horror movie with its dark and menacing tone.
07. Between the Hammer & the Anvil
That song was inspired by the trial that implied the band. It’s not as crazy as some other songs on the album, but it stands out with its great songwriting, it’s the most ‘political’ song on the list and the most serious.
08. A Touch of Evil
One thing that stands out on this one is the use of keyboards. Definitely a different feel from the rest of the album, mostly using ambiance instead of aggression. Nevertheless, it’s a killer song, it never feels out of place even if it’s really different.
09. Battle Hymn
Short instrumental piece to introduce the next song, ‘One Shot at Glory’.
10. One Shot at Glory
The grand finale, the longest song of the album. Although it’s not the most memorable song on the album, it has all the elements that make this album great, beautiful melodies, screaming vocals, unbelievable guitar parts, insane drumming, aggression, and intensity. It’s the perfect ending to a perfect album.
Final thoughts on Painkiller by Judas Priest
This album has a place with the greatest metal albums of all time. It has been widely praised during the 30 years of its existence, a rare feat in rock music history. If you don’t know this album, don’t hesitate to give it a try, you will wonder why you missed that gem all of this time.
