Judas Priest – Redeemer of Souls (2014): A Definitive Album Guide
Redeemer of Souls, released on July 8, 2014, is the twentieth studio album by Judas Priest and the first full-length release after the band’s reunion and the return of guitarist K.K. Downing’s replacement, Richie Faulkner. The album marked a revitalized era for the band, combining classic Judas Priest heavy metal with modern production, tight riffs, and Rob Halford’s signature soaring vocals.
Album Overview
Recorded at Tipton Down Studios in the UK and produced by Mike Exeter and Judas Priest, Redeemer of Souls celebrates the band’s legacy while delivering fresh, high-energy tracks.
Richie Faulkner brought new energy to the guitar section, joining Glenn Tipton to deliver blistering solos, harmonized riffs, and driving rhythms. Scott Travis’ drumming and Ian Hill’s bass form a powerful backbone, while Halford’s vocals range from operatic highs to gritty, mid-range aggression.
Lyrically, the album explores themes of redemption, vengeance, personal struggle, and triumph, combining classic metal storytelling with modern lyrical sensibilities. The album’s sound is aggressive yet melodic, appealing to longtime fans and a new generation of metal enthusiasts.
Tracklist
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Halls of Valhalla
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Dragonaut
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March of the Damned
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Hell and Back
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Battle Cry
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Crossfire
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Down in Flames
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Battle Hymn
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Cold Blooded
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Metalizer
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Beginning of the End
Deluxe editions include bonus tracks and live recordings.
Album Credits
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Band Members:
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Rob Halford – vocals
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Glenn Tipton – guitar
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Richie Faulkner – guitar
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Ian Hill – bass
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Scott Travis – drums
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Production:
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Produced by: Judas Priest & Mike Exeter
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Engineered by: Mike Exeter
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Recorded at: Tipton Down Studios, UK
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Artwork:
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Cover art: Mark Wilkinson
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Concept: A fiery angelic figure, symbolizing redemption and heavy metal power
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Commercial Performance & Grossing Info
Redeemer of Souls debuted at No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 6 on the US Billboard 200, making it one of Judas Priest’s highest-charting albums in decades.
The album sold over 100,000 copies in the first week worldwide, and singles like “Halls of Valhalla” and “Dragonaut” helped solidify its impact. It was supported by a major world tour, including festival appearances and headline shows.
Critical Reception
Critics praised Redeemer of Souls for combining classic Judas Priest elements with fresh energy brought by Richie Faulkner. Halford’s vocals received acclaim for retaining power and precision, and the album was seen as a successful comeback after Nostradamus (2008).
Fans and reviewers highlighted the aggressive riffs, modern production, and epic choruses as standout features, cementing the album as a strong entry in the band’s late-career discography.
Fun Facts
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Richie Faulkner was 31 at the time of recording, bringing a youthful energy to the band’s classic twin-guitar sound.
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“Halls of Valhalla” became a live show favorite, opening many concerts during the album’s tour.
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The album artwork continues the tradition of iconic Judas Priest imagery, featuring metallic and angelic motifs.
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Redeemer of Souls marked a creative resurgence for Judas Priest, proving they could deliver high-quality heavy metal over 40 years into their career.
Trivia
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The track “Battle Cry” demonstrates Faulkner’s ability to match Tipton’s technical guitar work, adding a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound.
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The album was promoted with a series of lyric videos and behind-the-scenes footage, highlighting the band’s engagement with modern media.
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Songs like “Dragonaut” and “March of the Damned” feature fast riffs and double-bass drumming reminiscent of classic speed metal.
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Halford co-wrote most of the lyrics, focusing on themes of heroism, redemption, and power — staples of the Judas Priest ethos.
Did You Know?
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Did you know Richie Faulkner replaced K.K. Downing in 2011, making Redeemer of Souls his first full-length studio album with the band?
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Did you know the album’s opening track, “Halls of Valhalla,” pays homage to Norse mythology and classic metal imagery?
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Did you know Redeemer of Souls is considered a spiritual successor to Painkiller, combining high-speed riffs with modern production?
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Did you know the album’s success led to the band being nominated for several awards in Europe and North America for best metal release?
