Invincible Shield
The opening keyboards on Panic Attack briefly suggest that Judas Priest might have taken a different route. Then the guitars arrive, Rob Halford starts singing, and the situation becomes fairly clear. Invincible Shield is a heavy metal album made by people who still seem excited by the idea.
That opening song is excellent. The changes give it plenty of movement, and the guitar leads add energy without interrupting the rhythm. Halford remains a commanding presence, using both the stronger lower phrases and the high notes that have always been part of the band's identity.
The Serpent and the King keeps the pace up, and the title track gives the album another substantial highlight. At more than six minutes, it has room for several turns, but the arrangement keeps its momentum. The guitar parts feel connected to the song rather than placed on top of it.
Richie Faulkner's playing is a major attraction throughout. The leads have character and the riffs give them something strong to work against. Scott Travis also gives the faster material a clear physical drive. As God Is My Witness is especially effective in that respect, pushing the speed without losing the shape of the song.
There is enough variety to keep the album from becoming a constant sprint. Devil in Disguise and Gates of Hell put more emphasis on weight and melody, while Giants in the Sky gives the later stretch a looser, more blues-based feel. Those changes make the heavier songs land harder when they return.
This is still firmly established Judas Priest territory. The album's appeal depends on how well the band write and play within it, and they do both very well. Some listeners may prefer the immediate force of Firepower, but there is plenty of detail here to reward a longer look.
Invincible Shield feels confident, energetic and fully committed. The songs give the performances a clear purpose, and the band never seem content to let their history do the work for them. It's a very strong addition to an already substantial catalogue.
