2018 saw the return of the mighty, legendary Judas Priest. With their new album Firepower, we see and hear the band returning to a more classic form which does really good for them. The album sounds fantastic (review coming soon) and the band has hit the road. After the devistating news about long time guitarist and founding member Glen Tipton’s battle with Parkinson’s disease, it was announced that he had hand picked renowned producer and Hell guitarist Andy Sneap. Sneap is more known behind the scenes as a producer for such legendary acts as Exodus, Accept, and even produced the newest Masterpriest (see what I did there), Firepower.
As a long time Priest fan, I still find myself with mixed emotions about this. At this point, the guitar team of Judas Priest contains NO original founding fathers. I’ll be honest, when KK Downing bowed out I had my doubts but Richie Faulker brought in this spark that ignited a fire under Priest’s ass. The band down-tuned and all of the sudden the once struggling Rob Halford was once again a powerful juggernaut of a voice in a whole new way. Even live, Faulkner breathed some energy into the band that was (and still is) absolutely electrifying. As for Andy Sneap… I’m not so sure.
It’s been said that Sneap was handpicked by Tipton to be his replacement but seeing him on stage, he looks like the kid that got picked last for dodgeball. He looks absolutely terrified on stage; a deer in the headlights. I mean, even as much as I usually don’t care about image, he barely even looks the part. I mean, at least Faulkner got all metaled up in his clothes but Sneap? A button up black shirt? Dude, you are in Judas Priest, the metal gods! You could put in just a little more effort to look more like a band member and less like their accountant.
The footage I have seen from this tour so far has been absolutely outstanding. You better believe that I will be there rooting them on. The band has been pulling out some real deep gems on this run which has been so cool to see but again, Sneap, why you look so scared bruh? Loosen up. Smoke a J, take a Xanax, watch some old Tipton videos, do something to make yourself look solidified as a part of one of the greatest metal bands in the world. Have fun on stage and maybe even take a few tips from Faulkner. Maybe he could even take you clothes shopping or something.
Regardless, good luck Andy. I hope you find your comfort zone in Priest. You sound amazing! Just get comfortable and be a part of the machine.
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