Undoubtedly one of the finest and most influential 'Heavy Metal' albums ever. Often misjudged as one of 'Priest's' most commercial releases, probably due to the fact that its so damn fine, everybody fines at least a couple of tracks they love from it. The winning formula here is the ability to blend catchy material with crunching, uncompromising trademark 'Priest', and they pull it off to perfection.

One of the fastest, nastiest songs of the time propels this classic, 'Rapid Fire', a full throttle, head-banger of the highest order, driven by bludgeoning rhythm and crunching guitars while combining bristling lyrics with 'Rob Halfords' immense vocals for an unforgettable track. Second up, is the live favourite 'Metal Gods', a mesmerising rocker, that features a commanding chorus, superb chugging rhythm and fantastic lyrics which I assume are referring to themselves as "Metal Gods", and with a back catalogue like theirs, its hard to disagree. As for my favourite track, it has to go to 'Breaking the Law' a superb grooving speciality, that makes you want to punch the air and scream the unbelievably addictive chorus (I don't recommend you do this if you have anything to do with law enforcement!), this is all combined with sweet interspersed guitar licks and fabulous lyrics- enjoy. The evil crunch of the next classic is just so before its time, 'Grinder' is a gyrating pulveriser to be reckoned with, checkout the great mid track solo- wow. The only black spot on this album for me is the repetitive anthem 'United', ok it gutsy in places but just too incessant for my liking. Much superior is the excellently written 'You don't have to be Old to be Wise', a top rocker full of great lyrics and tasty fret work. Next up is 'Living After Midnight', one of 'Priest's' most known and catchiest songs and it's hardly surprising with wonderful choruses, driving guitar work and sweet harmonies. Closing the album are two of 'Priest's' most overlooked tracks, 'The Rage' is a darker sounding number, full of trademark 'Halford' vocals and slashing guitars. While 'Steeler' is a strong galloping rocker, brimming with top rhythm work and a superb wind down featuring subtle building to breakneck axe work.

As with all 'Judas Priest' albums the remasters features two previously unreleased tracks. 'Red, White and Blue' is a patriotic song, but I can see why it never made album status, far too slow with a sluggish tempo. The live version of 'Grinder' doesn't disappoint though, a really impressive gutsy rendition, full of marvellous soloing and top vocals.

Hell this album was released in 1980, and has lost nothing over the years. If you don't own a copy, put on your leather jacket, get on your 'Harley' and pick up a remastered version.