There comes a point in one's life when you do what you want to do, and not just what you feel you have to do. I think it's safe to say that Rob Halford has reached that point. After almost forty years as the front man for one of the most influential bands in Heavy Metal history, there is obviously nothing left for the "Metal God" to prove. Not only has he recorded some of the most recognizable anthems in metal history, but he has also toured the world countless times to deliver those anthems to millions upon millions of head-banging fans. So why, at this stage of his life/career, would he decide to put his non-Judas Priest band back together and record a new album before hitting the road yet again for a string of festival dates? Well, judging from the one-off headlining show in San Francisco last Saturday night, it's simply because he loves what he does.
Gracefully walking out onto the stage to the chants of "Hal-Ford, Hal-Ford, Hal-Ford,” the singer and his band opened the show with “Silent Screams,” from his the self titled Halford record, and it quickly became apparent that he was not going to just go through the motions and just live off of his laurels. Instead, Mr. Halford gave the near-capacity crowd every bit of energy he had, and it showed without a doubt.
Looking more animated than I have seen him look in years, Rob seemed to enjoy being back on stage with his Halford band mates, and with guitarists "Metal" Mike Chlasciak and Roy Z on either side, the band ripped through much of their classic first record, including "Resurrection," "Made In Hell,” and "Saviour.” "Made Of Metal,” a new song from the forthcoming Halford IV – Made Of Metal album sounded great, and also proved that the singer's voice is not only still intact, but sounding better than it has in years. "I Am Alive" and "Never Again" were both nice surprises from the Fight catalog as well.
Of course, no Rob Halford show would be complete without a few songs from the Judas Priest library but, instead of going with the obvious "Breaking The Law" or "You've Got Another Thing Coming,” Rob chose to dust of "Never Satisfied" from the Rocka Rolla record, and the even more obscure "Heart Of A Lion." Both were non-conventional choices, but worked very well with the set list. After closing the almost hour long set with "Saviour," Halford and his band returned to the stage for "Crystal" and "Rock The World Forever," the later which could not have summed up the evening any better.
Looking back on the show, I'd say that I was really quite impressed with the Metal God. Not only does he still sound great, but he also clearly enjoyed his time on stage. While it's true that I am looking forward to more Judas Priest in the future, I am also looking forward to seeing and hearing more of Rob Halford in his current incarnation.
Artist:
www.robhalford.com/
www.facebook.com/Rob-Halford-Fans-United/
Further Reading:
Ground Control's interview with Rob Halford, conducted shortly before the San Francisco show.
Album:
Check Halford's shop on Amazon for updates on the release of IV and further reissues.
