SHIELD OF PAIN: Judas Priest Launches Epic Tour to Commemorate ‘Painkiller’ Album’s 35th Anniversary

Legendary heavy metal band Judas Priest is once again igniting the stage with their electrifying presence, announcing an epic tour to celebrate the 35th anniversary of their iconic album, *Painkiller*. This milestone marks over three decades of relentless metal mastery, and the band is pulling out all the stops to honor this pivotal record in their storied career.

 

Released in September 1990, *Painkiller* is widely regarded as one of Judas Priest’s most influential and aggressive albums. It signified a bold evolution in the band’s sound, embracing faster tempos, heavier riffs, and a more commanding vocal delivery from Rob Halford. The album’s themes of pain, perseverance, and resilience struck a chord with fans, cementing its status as a metal classic. Tracks like “Painkiller,” “All Guns Blazing,” and “Night Crawler” have become staples in the band’s live performances, symbolizing the raw power that Judas Priest is renowned for.

 

In celebration of this landmark anniversary, Judas Priest announced a comprehensive world tour, aptly titled “Shield of Pain.” The tour promises to deliver a blistering setlist featuring not only the classics from *Painkiller* but also selections from their extensive discography, spanning over five decades of metal excellence. Fans can anticipate an immersive experience, complete with state-of-the-art production, pyrotechnics, and Rob Halford’s legendary vocals.

 

Frontman Rob Halford expressed his excitement about the tour: “It’s incredible to think it’s been 35 years since *Painkiller* changed the game. We want to give our fans a show that truly honors the power and spirit of that album. This tour is our shield of pain—our anthem of resilience and strength.”

 

Guitarist Richie Faulkner, who has been with the band since 2011, emphasized the significance of revisiting *Painkiller* amidst their extensive catalog. “Playing these songs live is always an adrenaline rush. They’re challenging but incredibly rewarding to perform, and we’re thrilled to share this journey with our fans.”

 

The tour is set to kick off in Europe before making its way across North America, Australia, and other regions. Each date promises a high-energy spectacle, with the band’s legendary twin guitar attack and Halford’s soaring vocals front and center. Special tributes and video montages celebrating the album’s legacy will add a nostalgic touch, reminding fans why Judas Priest remains a titan in the metal world.

 

The *Painkiller* album marked a turning point not only for Judas Priest but also for metal as a whole. Its aggressive sound influenced countless bands and helped define the genre’s boundaries. The album’s cover art, depicting a metallic angel wielding a sword, has become an iconic image representing the album’s themes of divine punishment and resilience.

 

In addition to the tour, Judas Priest plans to release special edition vinyl and remastered versions of *Painkiller*, offering fans an opportunity to experience the album with enhanced sound quality. Limited-edition merchandise, including vintage-inspired apparel and memorabilia, will also be available at shows and online.

 

Critics and fans alike are eager to see Judas Priest bring their legendary energy to the stage once more. “The *Painkiller* album is a testament to Judas Priest’s enduring power and influence,” said music historian Mark Evans. “Celebrating its 35th anniversary with a tour is not just a tribute but a reaffirmation of their position as pioneers of heavy metal.”

 

As anticipation builds, tickets for the “Shield of Pain” tour are expected to sell out quickly. The band’s social media channels are buzzing with excitement, and fans are eagerly sharing their favorite *Painkiller* memories. This tour promises to be a historic event—an unmissable celebration of metal’s relentless shield of pain and strength.

 

In a genre defined by its resilience and defiance, Judas Priest’s *Painkiller* remains a symbol of unyielding power. The “Shield of Pain” tour is set to reinforce their legacy, proving once again why they are considered true metal gods. For fans old and new, this commemorative tour is a chance to witness history in the making and embrace the enduring spirit of Judas Priest’s metal mayhem.