Heavy metal legends Judas Priest are marking a significant milestone in their illustrious career as their current “Shield Of Pain” tour delivers an extensive live dedication to their seminal 1990 album, *Painkiller*. The album, widely regarded as a pinnacle of speed and power metal, is celebrating its **35th anniversary** this year, and Priest is ensuring its legacy is honored on stage.
As part of the “Shield Of Pain” setlist, the band has notably included **seven tracks** from *Painkiller*, offering fans a deeper dive into the album’s ferocity than they’ve seen in years. Beyond the iconic title track, which is a consistent live staple, the set now features other fan favorites and even some rarities from the album. These include the blistering “All Guns Blazing” (performed for the first time since 2019), “Hell Patrol,” “A Touch of Evil,” “Night Crawler” (making its first appearance since 2012), “One Shot At Glory” (with its intro “Battle Hymn”), and “Between The Hammer And The Anvil.”
When Judas Priest first announced the “Shield Of Pain” tour, they promised a “rare” and “unique set” that would include “beloved classics” and provide a “truly memorable experience throughout Europe.” The inclusion of such a significant portion of *Painkiller* undeniably fulfills that promise, delighting long-time fans who have yearned to hear these tracks live again.
The *Painkiller* album, released after a period of experimentation for the band, saw Judas Priest return to their heavier roots with renewed vigor and a blistering, aggressive sound. Its 35th anniversary celebration on the “Shield Of Pain” tour reaffirms the album’s enduring impact and its status as a cornerstone of the heavy metal genre. It’s a testament to the band’s commitment to their legacy and their desire to give fans a unique and powerful live experience.
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