Words and Photos: Screaming Digital Productions
Sabaton, renowned as the warriors of metal history, also known as The War Machine, ignited the stage at Propst Arena in Huntsville, AL, on May 7th, 2024, with their anthems inspired by historical battles. Their performance was a dynamic retelling of past conflicts, from the invigorating “Primo Victoria” commemorating the D-Day landings to the triumphant “The Last Stand,” inspired by heroic last stands throughout history. Led by Joakim Brodén’s magnetic presence, Sabaton’s set was not just a concert but a journey through the annals of time, uniting metal enthusiasts in a celebration of both music and history. Some of my favorite cuts will always get the audience going with the likes of “Ghost Division” and “Stormtroopers”. How could you not? Every person there was into it.
The atmosphere crackled with energy as Sabaton commanded the stage, their larger-than-life presence amplified by their energetic performance. Each song served as a portal to a different epoch, transporting the audience from the trenches of World War I to the present. The band’s passionate performance was matched only by the fervor of their fans, who raised their fists and sang along to every anthem with unwavering enthusiasm.
Sabaton, one of the premier metal acts in Europe, has headlined such epic festivals as Wacken and Bloodstock over the years, solidifying their status as champions of the genre. Their live shows are legendary spectacles, drawing fans from around the globe to witness their electrifying performances and larger-than-life stage presence.
Following this historical voyage, metal legends Judas Priest took the stage, their legacy deeply intertwined with the evolution of heavy metal itself. Originating in the industrial heartlands of Birmingham, England, Judas Priest emerged in the late 1960s, pioneering the genre with their distinctive sound and iconic imagery. Their influence reverberated through the decades, shaping the landscape of metal music with timeless classics like “Breaking the Law,” “Victim of Changes,” “Sinner,” and “Painkiller.” Rob Halford’s operatic vocals epitomized the essence of Judas Priest’s enduring legacy.
As the lights dimmed and the opening chords of “Panic Attack” reverberated through the arena, Judas Priest unleashed a sonic onslaught that left no doubt as to why they are hailed as metal gods. Each riff was a testament to their mastery of the craft. Halford’s operatic vocals, even at 72 years of age, sounded mystifying, soaring above the thunderous roar of the crowd. Hits like “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'” and “Living After Midnight” captivated audiences, as fans old and new reveled in the timeless allure of Judas Priest’s music. I really enjoyed “Devil’s Child” and “Sinner”; both sounded great live.
Notably, Judas Priest’s latest studio offering, “Invincible Shield,” was triumphantly received by journalists and publications alike. The new music touched upon all the different eras of the band, showcasing their versatility and enduring relevance in the metal scene. They displayed some of those tunes here tonight with “Crown of Horns” and “Invincible Shield”.
The convergence of these two Metal giants, Sabaton and Judas Priest, on the “Invincible Shield Tour,” marked a significant moment in music history. Sabaton’s vivid reenactment of historical events and Judas Priest’s groundbreaking contributions to the genre intertwined seamlessly, creating an unforgettable experience. This concert exemplified how music’s timeless allure can bridge generational divides and bring people together.
As the echoes of their performances dissipated into the night, the audience was left not only with memories but also with a deep appreciation for the rich mosaic of metal history woven by these legendary bands.
JUDAS PRIEST: INVINCIBLE SHIELD TOUR DATES:
Thu Apr 18 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Fri Apr 19 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
Sun Apr 21 – Reading, PA – Santander Arena
Wed Apr 24 – Bangor, ME – Cross Insurance Center
Thu Apr 25 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Sat Apr 27 – Youngstown, OH – Covelli Center*
Sun Apr 28 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheater at White River
Wed May 01 – Rosemont, IL – Rosemont Theatre
Thu May 02 – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory
Sat May 4 – Kalamazoo, MI – Wings Event Center*
Sun May 05 – Maryland Heights, MO – St Louis Music Park
Tue May 07 – Huntsville, AL – VBC Propst Arena*
Thu May 09 – Daytona, FL – Welcome to Rockville^
Sat May 11 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
Sun May 12 – Mobile, AL – Mobile Civic Center Arena*
Tue May 14 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
Thu, May 16 – Columbus OH – Historic Crew Stadium ^
Fri May 17 – Evansville, IN – Ford Center*
Sun May 19 – Washington, DC –The Theater at MGM National Harbor
Tue May 21 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena
Wed May 22 – Syracuse, NY – Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview
*Not a Live Nation Date
^Festival Performance
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