Despite many changes in the band and in the music world, Judas Priest is still going strong after nearly 50 years of performing.
The heavy-metal icons started the Canadian leg of their 2018 tour last night in Ottawa and are looking forward to hitting Casino Rama on Friday to promote their new album, Firepower.
As the band prepared for their show tonight in western Ontario, guitarist Richie Faulkner was upbeat and excited to keep going.
“I’m from London, England and we’ve travelled to Canada to play in London, Ont., tonight. It’s a trip, man,” said Faulkner. “It really is exciting, though, and we’re all looking forward to playing tonight. Last night was absolutely fantastic.”
The 38-year-old is the newest member of the band, having joined them in 2011 to replace original member K.K. Downing.
The longtime musician had bounced around the music scene before landing the dream job of playing with Judas Priest. He says it is the best job a musician could have.
“The immediate feeling I had when joining was one of inclusivity,” Faulkner said. “The really cool thing was that when I joined they weren’t looking for just a band member, they wanted someone with opinions, thoughts and input.
"Anyone could have joined and just played their instrument while fading into the background, but Priest isn’t about that. This unit of guys is just that; one strong unit who go out and give our fans what they want every show and every album.”
The fans haven’t stopped supporting the band over the years and their 18 albums have sold a collective 50 million to date. In 2010, MTV labelled the band as the second greatest metal group of all time (behind only Black Sabbath) and their multiple awards have shown Faulkner that they must be doing something right.
“It is amazing sometimes to sit back and see that next year will be 50 years that Priest started and the band is still making albums and delighting the fans,” Faulkner said. “Through the many changes in popular music along the way, the fans keep coming out to the shows and buying the albums.
"We obviously maintain the hardcore regulars, but it is really something else to talk to someone who is under 30 or 25 who says they love what we do," he added. "That shows the longevity of the band and is how we can really measure success.”
With 32 years separating Faulkner from the oldest member of the group, he does admit that there are some humorous and light-hearted moments when they get together, but, overall, the age gap doesn’t affect the creative process.
“I admit sometimes I like to joke about some of the ailments that befall my older bandmates; you know they don’t recover as quickly as they once did,” joked Faulkner. “But as far what we do in studio and on stage, age hasn’t crept up on any one of us.
"Most people are stunned after a show I’m sure when they see the level of energy that goes into a set; but that all comes from enjoying it and believing in what each other and the band.”
The newest album, Firepower, was released March 9 and has something for everyone on it, says Faulkner. Whether you’re a fan of the band’s past albums or looking to give them a try for the first time, Firepower could very well be the collection to bring you in.
“This album truly is my favourite one that I’ve been a part of since joining Priest,” Faulkner said. “I can say without hesitation that Firepower is a mixed collection of the classic Priest sound that has been a part of the legacy from Day 1, but I’m very proud to say that there are a lot of progressive moments here as well and I feel we’ve captured both sides of nostalgia and looking ahead.”
Faulkner admits the band doesn’t do a sound check before shows, which allows them more time to have a look around when they are in a new town. Fans of the band heading to Rama on Friday may want to keep their eyes open for the guys out and about or playing a few games in the casino.
“We love seeing the cities we go to as that’s part of the experience for a band who tours,” Faulkner said. “Truthfully, we love Canada and have been a lot. The only thing we could do without are the few extra pounds we put on every time we come here with the great beer and delicious poutine we stock up on.”
Tickets for the Judas Priest show at Casino Rama on Friday are still available. Head to the band’s website at www.judaspriest.com for details.
