» Judas Priest’s “50 Heavy Metal Years” Celebration

Last Friday night at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown, Ohio was THE place to be for all heavy metal fans, old and young, looking for loud, top notch entertainment.

As Judas Priest’s symbol, glowing in red lights, was lowered from the ceiling, with Black Sabbath’s War Pigs blasting away, the audience could feel a big show was commencing.

Rob Halford positioned his back to the crowd – facing drummer Scott Travis – showing the same symbol on his studded, fringed, leather jacket. So badass and cool.

Judas Priest at Covelli Centre, Youngstown OH 9/17/21

Now at 70 years old, Halford’s voice is still powerful, and his presence grand and imposing. A true heavy metal icon.

Ian Hill, original bassist, chose to be in the back while guitarists Andy Sneap (touring) and Richie Faulkner, flanked Rob Halford at the front. The band has maintained great visual appeal, and the show’s production is a real treat for the audience, as one would expect from a hugely influential band like Judas Priest.

Rob Halford of Judas Priest

Richie Faulkner, guitarist, Judas Priest

The 18 song setlist included “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming”, “Exciter”, “Turbo Lover”, “A Touch of Evil”, “Rocka Rolla”, “Hell Bent for Leather”, “Victim of Changes” and “Breaking the Law”.

Judas Priest at Covelli Centre 2021

The band will continue the tour in the US, Canada, and Europe, including Louder Than Life 2021 in Louisville, KY next weekend

Richie Faulkner and Rob Halford – Judas Priest

The performance was absolutely electrifying and the audience left the show with proof that Judas Priest is, after five decades, still a force in it’s genre.

Andy Sneap and Ian Hill, of Judas Priest

Swedish metal band Sabaton opened the show, and demonstrated excellent stage production that included camo clothes, m-16 mic stands coupled with combat helmets, and a full size riser for drummer Hannes Van Dahl. Vocalist Joakim Brodén, bassist Pär Sundström and guitarists Chris Rörland and Tommy Johansson gave the audience a solid and enjoyable performance, full of smiles and crowd interaction. Their popularity is sure to rise in the United States while they continue the tour and perform in the upcoming Louder Than Life 2021 festival, confirming their success already established by 8 studio albums, of which 2 are platinum sellers.

Sabaton performs at Covelli Centre, Youngstown OH 9/17/21

Sabaton performs at Covelli Centre, Youngstown OH 9/17/21

The band was very charismatic and playful. They pulled in a young fan from the crowd onto the stage, and then, also his uncle. Then, took a seat behind the guitarists, and the entire audience at The Covelli Centre applauded, smiling and cheering on the lucky boy for getting a special view point during the final song.