Screaming for Vengeance' was the first 'Judas Priest' album I ever heard and I'm still as impressed today as when I first heard it. The previous release 'Point of Entry' was a fairly low key effort by 'Priest' Standards, but here they really come storming back with yet another classic album. The approach made throughout is slightly different from their previous work, it's hard to pinpoint what the difference is, but the songs do have a certain vibe, thankfully it's all still well within the classic 'Priest' vein, so no worries there. The 2001 re-released version which I own, is in my opinion poorly re-mastered, they seem to have taken the edge off many tracks, while trying to enhance some of the sound effect, if you can, stick to the original vinyl.

The double punch of 'The Hellion' and 'Electric Eye' opens the album in spectacular form, two instantly recognisable songs that have no doubt opened a thousand shows. The intro titled 'The Hellion' is an intense, guitar fuelled piece that flows seamlessly into 'Electric Eye' a top notch, axe screaming gem, laced by great 'Halford' vocals, effective synthesiser use and memorable fist-raising lyrics. Following on in superb form is the brisk paced 'Riding on the Wind', a rhythm driven cracker, that features ripping guitar solos, great 'Holland' drum work and the usual glass shattering vocals. The tempo subsides for the heavy plodder 'Bloodstone', lyrically it's all pretty simple, but very catchy especially the chorus, overall well executed and another highlight. Edging into more commercial territory is the 'R. Halligan Jr.' penned '(Take these) Chains', a more radio friendly song, very melodic throughout, not quite sure about the softer chorus, but still a solid effort. The heavy plod of 'Pain and Pleasure' ensues, and although a little sluggish in parts, I particularly enjoy the punchy chorus and the solid instrumental break. The second half kicks off with the classic title track 'Screaming for Vengeance', a brisk pulsating jewel, highlighting 'Rob Halford's' ripping vocals, gutsy lyrics and quality guitar soloing from 'Tipton' and 'Downing'. Better still is the punchy rocker 'You've got another thing Comin'', a song which I believe went down especially well in the States, and it's hardly surprising, an extremely catchy, pulsating rocker, that's well penned and graced by more magnificent guitaring. The pace softens for the subtle melodic intro to 'Fever', a gentle ballad come rocker, which varies tempo nicely to keep the track interesting, while the closing number 'Devil's Child' is a chorus heavy, guitar fest in the classic 'Priest' vein.

Bonus tracks included with the re-mastered version of 'Screaming for Vengeance' include 'Prisoner of your Eyes', a slightly long-winded but emotionally sung power ballad, however a better rendition of this song can be heard on 'Halford's' 'Insurrection'. The second track is a live version of 'Devil's Child' and although it isn't flawless, still an energetic run-through of a great song.

Another classic album from 'Judas Priest', but the re-master certainly is a disappointment and needs further improvements, so there is a crisp but faithful version of this gem.