With their latest album Firepower – their 18th since forming all the way back in 1969 – Judas Priest have little left to prove. Their catalogue is populated with some of the most revered songs in heavy metal, and they are rightly seen as one of the genre’s most iconic acts. Bristling with an energy that has been somewhat absent over the last decade, this record marks a stunning return to form.

Firepower kicks off with a sonic blitzkrieg, with Rob Halford’s signature soaring vocals to the fore. There is a notable change in tone from 2014’s Redeemer Of Souls, with the record boasting more polished production – it truly is a feast for the ears. Producer Tom Allom’s previous history with the band really bears fruit; he has a proper understanding of their sound and what makes a great Priest record. Indeed, tracks like ‘Lightning Strike’ and ‘Spectre’ hark back to 1990’s incendiary Painkiller.

The band’s latest addition, guitarist Richie Faulkner, solidifies his position: he and Glenn Tipton trade machine gun licks throughout. A particular highlight is the sombrely atmospheric ‘Traitors Gate’, with Halford delivering a towering vocal performance. Though the now 66-year-old frontman reduces the frequency of his trademark wailing on Firepower, he still turns in some powerful singing on the likes of ‘Rising From Ruins’ and the searing title track.

Spanning some 14 tracks, the album is slightly bloated in places. Nonetheless, thanks to the relentless energy and the sheer quality of the playing, this is a resolutely thrilling addition to the Priest canon.

Music label: Columbia
Listen to: 'Traitors Gate'
Rating: 8.5/10