On September 17, 1979 "Judas priest" released their first live album "Unleashed in the East".
"Unleashed in the East" often hailed as one of the greatest live metal records ever made. Recorded during their 1979 Japanese tour, it captures the raw power and precision of "Judas Priest" in their prime. Though rumors of studio overdubs on Rob Halford's vocals gave the album the moniker "Unleashed in the Studio," its impact remains undeniable. This album delivers an electrifying snapshot of the band’s live prowess, setting a new standard for live heavy metal recordings.
The album kicks off with "Exciter," a speed-metal anthem that’s even more intense in its live rendition than the studio version from "Stained Class". Halford’s vocals are even more soaring and aggressive live, and the twin guitar attack of K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton sounds sharper and heavier. Tracks like "Sinner," "Running Wild" and "Genocide" showcase this dynamic, with the live versions adding a sense of spontaneity and raw power that makes them feel more dangerous than their studio counterparts. The band's legendary precision shines throughout, with the rhythm section of Ian Hill on bass and Les Binks on drums providing a relentless, driving force.
One of the defining aspects of "Unleashed in the East" is how the live versions of the songs often outshine their studio counterparts. Tracks like "The Ripper" and "Victim of Changes" from "Sad Wings of Destiny" feel more visceral and intense, with Halford pushing his vocal limits to incredible heights. The guitars sound more cutting and aggressive live, with Downing and Tipton’s solos possessing an immediacy and intensity that sometimes feels dialed back in the studio versions.
Interestingly enough, the highlights of the album are actually attributed to the two cover versions performed by the band on this album. The live version of "The Green Manalishi (With the Two Prong Crown)," a "Fleetwood Mac" cover, is more forceful and menacing than its studio recording, fully embracing the dark, metal edge "Priest" brought to the song. Similarly, "Diamonds and Rust," a cover of the Joan Baez classic, becomes a full-blown metal anthem, with its acoustic origins almost unrecognizable beneath the live band's power.
The 2001 reissue of "Unleashed in the East" offers fans even more, featuring four bonus tracks: "Rock Forever," "Delivering the Goods," "Hell Bent for Leather," and "Starbreaker." These tracks further emphasize the sheer energy of "Priest’s" live performances, with songs like "Delivering the Goods" exploding with more grit and aggression compared to the "Killing Machine" studio version. "Rock Forever" and "Hell Bent for Leather" capture the anthemic quality of Priest’s music in front of an audience, while "Starbreaker" includes an extended drum solo by Les Binks, adding an extra layer of excitement to the track.
Overall, "Unleashed in the East" shows "Judas Priest" at their peak, delivering definitive versions of their classic songs. The energy and intensity of the live performances elevate the material beyond their studio origins, making this album a must-listen for metal fans. For anyone looking to understand why "Judas Priest" is regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal acts of all time, "Unleashed in the East" is an essential listen.
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
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