Painkiller is the twelfth studio album by English heavy metal band Judas Priest, released on 17 September 1990, and 18 September in the United States.[4] It was the last Judas Priest album to feature long-time lead singer Rob Halford until his return for the 2005 album Angel of Retribution and the first to feature drummer Scott Travis…… watch below⬇️⬇️
Judas Priest – Painkiller (1990) Overview
Released on 17 September 1990 (UK) and 18 September 1990 (US), Painkiller marked a turning point for English heavy metal legends Judas Priest. This was the band’s twelfth studio album, known for its aggressive style, high-speed riffs, and powerful vocals, solidifying their place in metal history.
Painkiller introduced Scott Travis on drums, whose lightning-fast double-kick technique gave the band a revitalized sound. His drumming on the title track “Painkiller” became iconic. At the same time, it marked the final album with lead vocalist Rob Halford before his departure. Halford’s piercing vocals on this album are widely regarded as some of his best.
Musically, the album represents Judas Priest at their most intense. Songs like “Hell Patrol,” “Leather Rebel,” and “Night Crawler” feature intricate guitar work by Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, blending speed metal with classic British heavy metal roots. The lyrics delve into apocalyptic and mythological themes, with the title track describing a fiery metal savior arriving to cleanse a war-torn world.
Painkiller was met with critical acclaim, praised for rejuvenating the band’s sound. It has since been hailed as a landmark metal album, influencing generations of bands across the thrash, power, and speed metal genres.
Watch the official music video or live performances below to experience the raw power of Painkiller.⬇️⬇️
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