The Metal Gods reigned over two consecutive sold out shows on Long Island’s north shore with special guest, Mastodon.
Mastodon opened the show like the heaviest jam-band on the planet. As The Paramount filled, the mosh pits opened and the crowd slammed in anticipation of the main event. Between their musicianship and their vibrantly-colored light show, Mastodon kept the crowd transfixed throughout their set.
By the time Judas Priest hit the stage, the building was packed to capacity – for the second night in a row. Opening with the driving “Dragonaut” from 2014’s Redeemer of Souls, it was obvious these veterans came to kick ass and take no prisoners. Ian Hill (bass) and Scott Travis (drums) were the undying driving force behind Glenn Tipton and Richie Faulkner’s dual-guitar assault, with Rob Halford’s vocals sounding remarkably powerful from the first note to the last.
For roughly 90 minutes, fans were treated to songs that ran the gamut of the band’s catalog. This included classics like “Beyond the Realms of Death” and “Hell Bent for Leather” as well as new songs “Halls of Valhalla” and the title track from Redeemer of Souls.
Judas Priest – and their fans – proved that heavy metal is as vital today as it was when a fledgling network called MTV used to play the video for “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'” in heavy rotation.
Regardless of what type of music you enjoy, this is a show you should make a point to see.
Photos from this performance provided by Brian Matus.
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