Reviews (page 2 of 12)
крууто, понравилось, звучит легендарно, но к сожалению не зацепило особо
Kind of the precursor to all the types of metal I don’t like.
A few good songs just not into this type of heavy meyal
586/1089 - Typical Metal (3) with siren noises (instant star drop).
2.5
proper metal
Better than what I remember. Definitely will be listening to this album more in the future.
Actually a fun album, good heavy metal album. Will listen again especially when I am "BREAKING THE LAW" (that last part is a joke) 3.5
A jam - sounds the same after a while, but has some bangers. Rating: 5/10 Favorite Song: Grinder, Breaking the Law
Living After Midnight and Breaking the Law are 9 star songs - the rest bring it down to a 4 star album.
Not my genre but these guys are the OG.
Why does British metal seem so much less dumb than American metal? If you ignore the fans, that is (see Heavy Metal Parking Lot). Anyway, I enjoyed this.
Not my cup of tea, but I respect the work. I liked it better than I thought I would.
Discount AC/DC, and AC/DC is only just okay
In the latest episode of “the creators of this list don’t understand metal” we have British Steel by Judas Priest. Don’t get me wrong, British Steel is an decent album, and in a vacuum its inclusion on this list is defensible. However, the fact that it was selected as the token Priest album over Painkiller is an absolute travesty. British Steel fun at times, but it is extremely simplistic and a little corny. Painkiller is a work of musical virtuosity that changed heavy metal forever. If the authors of this list knew ball it would be on here instead. Yes, I know British Steel sold more records, but if that is our metric then why are there 10 fucking Nick Cave Albums on this list. Edit: After re-listening to this album I am even lower on it than I originally thought. Outside of "Breaking the Law" it just doesn't have much to offer. Even Screaming for Vengeance would have been a far better pick. I also re-listened to painkiller and it slapped even harder than I remembered.
I found it very hard to take “Grinder” and “Breaking the Law” seriously, they sounded to me like parodies of an 80s metal song, I just kept giggling. Still made for a largely enjoyable listening experience.
Bored now....
Я все не слушал да не слушал Бритиш Стил, потому что как увидел что выпало, сразу подумал "Бог ты мой, Джудас Прист...." Группа которую я уважаю, жанр против которого я ничего не имею, НО это та музыка которую ты слушаешь в определенное время при определенном настрое - а значит редко. И тут я включаю Rapid Fire и офигенно харизматичный мужик Роб не может не подкупить своим крутейшим вокалом и что самое главное, как бы ты не воротил нос оттого, какой ты крутой перец и не слушаешь "dad rock" а потом начинает играть такой балдежный гитарный запил, ехх, ну вот знают чем деда завлечь! эх, ладно, хрен с вами! BREAKING THE LAW BREAKING THE LAW BREAKING THE LAW
I don't really like metal, but I preferred this to the likes of Metallica or the American hair metal bands. It's still not my cup of tea, but it was alright.
This music is very silly and very fun. 3.5 rounded to 4.
Tida har gått litt fra en del av låtene her
Jeg synes det er litt fett, jeg. Corny til tider, men jeg liker det bedre enn Van Halen. Det er råere.
5: I will happily play this album anytime 4: I may occasionally play this album of my own free will 3: I will happily listen to this if someone plays it in the background 2: I will tolerate this if it is playing in the background 1: I will leave the room if someone plays this in the background
Good for the time but there’s better to look back on
Metal is just so damned boring, 3 chords, loud and aggressively, banal lyrics passed off as wisdom or insight; and this is the “good” metal, some of it is just nasty and evil. Some of it is pretty damned good, and there’s a few such tracks on this album, but sadly not enough to make it something you’d want in your regular rotation, unless it were already there.
Tough stretch in the middle with 'United,' 'You Don't Have to Be Old to Be Wise,' and 'Living After Midnight' (which I think is okay but doesn't fit and feels like a different band), but almost everything else is pretty solid, if not the most memorable / strong material the band has ever worked with. This is a weird pick for the one Judas Priest album in the book.
I would personally be embarrassed if I had to tell someone this was the kind of music I enjoyed. Luckily that will never be the case. Absolutely bizarre how many top recommended reviews award this 4 or 5 stars. I think this is another example of the bias of this website's users towards rock. This is OK stuff, but it's not a masterpiece.
18/08/2026 I've only really listened to 2 of Judas' songs before and they were on this album. So I was happy enough with this. Spotify listeners: 4.2 million
Very formulaic and boring sorry
I'm not much into metal, and this did virtually nothing to move the needle for me... BUT, I recognize good musicianship and artistry when I hear it, and Judas Priest definitely has an abundance of those things.
This book must fucking hate Judas Priest. A legendary metal band, and their turn-of-the-80s album makes it on the list is the ONLY album that makes it on? I mean it’s not a bad album, but what about Painkiller? Screaming For Vengeance? They’re so much more famous and up to par than this album, which is really only noteworthy for “Breaking The Law,” which DOES unimpeachably rip, and, more genuinely, being the album where Judas Priest made it really big. So there’s that I guess. Also, not for nothing, but a lot of this is pretty unimaginative and basic metal. “Grinder” rips, but it’s also so basic. The chorus of “Metal G-ds” is simply bad. I don’t really know what they were going for on “United,” but that song’s wack as fuck. “Living After Midnight” is also a little too hedonistic for my tastes (YES I gave Slippery When Wet a 9/10, that doesn’t mean I’ll just eat up whatever hedonistic crap is thrown my way), and even though the intro to “The Rage” is dope, the song it eventually becomes is a bit more subpar than I would like. Idk. Maybe I was too tired for this, but it feels incredibly unimpressive to me. 5.4/10
"Breaking the Law" and "Living After Midnight" are two of the most recognizable riffs in metal history — anthemic, simple, delivered with complete conviction, and almost certainly better known than they would be without fifty years of movies, TV shows, and classic rock radio doing the work of familiarity. Whether you love them because they're great or because you've heard them hundreds of times is a genuinely interesting question without a clean answer. Probably both, in proportions that can't be separated. What's clearer is that the rest of British Steel doesn't generate the same response, which is either the familiarity bias at work or an honest assessment of a record where the singles are doing most of the heavy lifting. Rob Halford's voice is the genuine article throughout — one of the great heavy metal instruments, capable of range and power the genre's stereotype undersells. The twin guitar interplay is tight and riff-oriented. The competence is real and consistent. Competence without the pull that the singles generate lands at three, which is where this sits. A record that gave the world two genuine landmarks and surrounded them with material that earns respect without earning return visits — which is an honest outcome and a more common one than the canon usually admits.
When it comes to metal, I can appreciate Judas Priest, I was 6 when this album came out so by the time I was getting into metal (6, 7, 8 years later) much heavier scts had already come around and thats what I grvitated towards. But this is clearly a good album and must have kicked some serious ass when it came out.
Not as heavy or as fast as their peers. Not necessarily bad, but the album lacks something special. 2.5/5 Probably won’t listen again
It’s cool to see how metal got its start with bands like this. I’m familiar with some of these songs and while I don’t really connect with the music I can see how they paved the way for so much that came after them.
Brittide metali üks esirindlasi. Positiivselt üllatunud selle albumi osas, kuna see pakkus uskumatult palju vaheldust ja väga kenasti sobis mul jõusaali taustaks. Kitarristina ja lauljana oleks siit õppida küll ja veel. 3.8/5
Geen Painkiller, maar toch goed...
solid 9 tracks
I did not particularly enjoy this.
Sure, “Living After Midnight” is a solid, melodic rocker, and there’s some solid rock on here that is what it is, but…I have no emotional link to this record whatsoever and it just doesn’t connect with me. *** Sure seems like the Grindr app name was inspired by the song: “Never straight and narrow I won’t keep in time Tend to bend the arrow out of the line Been inclined to wander Off the beaten track...”
British Steel has always felt like the moment Judas Priest snapped into perfect focus — leaner songs, sharper edges, and that unmistakable metallic punch that defined early‑’80s heavy metal. As a teenager I went wild for these guys, and honestly, the thrill hasn’t faded; even now it’s still fun to drop the needle and let those riffs hit with the same reckless energy they had back then.
Okay, seems pretty organized, but I am just not into it. At all.
I was almost at a 4-star, but really, that's almost nostalgic. Never was able to relate to the basic riffs and lyrics, though I always did regard the obvious sincerity of this band as its best attribute. Points for longevity as well. Living After Midnight is a classic, though it's like a song born of a template.
The band was alright, but I didn't care for the singer or lyrics.
This project has made me less tolerable to heavy metal. I just hate it.
Hard to top this as being near the top of British metal!
Heavy Metal - one more thoroughly uninteresting genre.
Solid classic metal album. Very iconic sound and perfect for a workout. I love the sound and tone guitar and the vocals are also top tier.
I could see why hard rock fans, love Judas Priest, but it’s a little harder than what I enjoy
This was a fun metal album to listen. Some songs I've heard before and the songs weren't all metal which made it more unique and interesting. its also a trash metal pioneer album and something I'd listen to again.
Please, I beg, no more metal.
Not bad for a heavy metal band.
I guess it’s fine if you like that style of metal
Legendary, I guess, but not my kind of metal.
Ages well. Like leather and spikes and Harley Davidson.
This kicks serious British arse mate’
The template for all the hair metal of the eighties, except this actually rocks. Love the dub influence on "Rage", I think that was one of the songs we'd skip when we listened to this as children. Basically a greatest hits. So anthemic, just ridiculous. Iconic.
Better than I expected.
60
Standard heavy metal album. A bit indistinguishable from others. Made me laugh thinking of Jack Black singing 'rock' songs though.
Non male
Knowing that Rob Halford was gay and that there's a song called Grinder on here made me chuckle. I wonder if the app creators named it thus after this song? I wouldn't be at all surprised. Anyway, I usually hate metal albums, but this one was relatively listenable. Lots of three minute pop songs without too much fannying about with solos. The acceptable face of metal. Not bad at all.
Enjoyed this for what it was, it was cool to experience a new set of songs besides Painkiller and Breaking the Law
3/10
2 stars not because it’s bad (shoutout breaking the law) but bc I don’t know if I’ll ever be in the mood to listen to this again
British Steel. The NWOBHM. These guys EMBODY the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Rapid Fire, the opener, hits hard. Breaking the Law and Living After Midnight, the obvious standouts here. A song that has stood the test of time with its catchy hooks. The rest of the album is full of hard-hitting, catchy songs a fan of metal would naturally enjoy - with of exception of United. One of the best of all time (mainly for nostalgia). Metal just ain't metal if Priest ain't around.
Great!
For the most part, this album rips! There's a few tracks that I could do with out, like "Red, White & Blue", but otherwise this a solid hard rock album that delivers on everything you'd want out of 80s metal
Classic British heavy metal .Breaking the law and Living after midnight are such classics .
I used to listen to a bit of Judas Priest when I was fully into '80s rock. This has the big hits and I like the album. To me, however, Priest is not something that I would find myself searching for on Spotify. The pushed vocals work, but only in small amounts. I was happy to hear that Halford's clean vocals are actually really good—it's a shame they did not use those more. The chorus of United is a great example of that clean sound.
I love Rob Halford and I really appreciate the Priest but they aren't my favourite metal band. That this is almost GLAM metal also doesn't help. But it has Breaking the Law. And Rage. So it's a solid 4 whatever the case.
This was good. My mind kept jumping to I fluences I could hear in it. A lot felt like kiss, or maybe the Donna's, a lot felt like maiden, there was at least one prechorus which felt straight off Ozzy's first album. It was very poppy and hooky, maybe too much so. Something about his voice didn't quite sit right with me. Every so often there was a lower bluesy bit he sang that I liked more, but then there was a song which was mostly lower in pitch and I didn't prefer it, so I am confused as to what I was hoping for.the last track didn't seem to fit for me. But overall I did enjoy it. I would like to put it on again and I think I'll look out for more priest, im not that familiar with them. I suspect something less poppy might suit them better.
2/5 Good album
Not my kind of stuff
Ex-boyfriend core
I rather enjoyed this in general. I wish I could rate it a 3.5 because its right there. Has enough pop structure to be liked by a non metal guy like me. I do feel like I need to crack open a PBR while I listen to this the next go around. Survivors: Metal Gods | Breaking the Law | Grinder | You Don't Have to be Old to Be Wise | The Rage
Хороший альбом. Брейкін зе ло - топ бенгер
Джудас пріст я дуже поважаю. БРЕЙКІН ЗЕ ЛО БРЕЙКІН ЗЕ ЛО.
ok yah i listened to that
Surprised how much I liked this - I guess it's kinda the more classic rock side of metal so it's a little more melody driven and not just guitar solos and screaming. Really into the vocals they were really rhythmic and interlocking with the guitar + bass rhythms in a cool way like another instrument. And there is NOTHING funny about the lyric "Grinder, Looking for Meat" when listening in 2026.
2/5
Classic. Favorites: Rapid Fire, Metal Gods, Breaking the Law, The Rage
Some amazing Prog Hard Rock many bands were infuenced by this
Not bad kinda good!
enjoyed it.
Power rock I would say. Nothing of note for me but I guess it's energizing.
Yucky
Metal that is so early in the development cycle that it still sounds like rock music. Enjoyed myself! Don't think I'll return very often, but still can see how people like this.
I mean it's a fine rock album! Would I listen again? Probably not!
good harmless fun, actually liked it more than i thought
I definitely get why British Steel is such a big deal for heavy metal, and you can totally hear why it’s a classic. The twin-guitar riffs are iconic, and Rob Halford’s vocals are honestly insane. Songs like "Breaking The Law" and "Living After Midnight" have that massive, high-energy stadium sound that basically defined the whole genre. That said, this style of music just isn’t my vibe. A lot of it feels pretty dated, and the over-the-top, hyper-masculine thing kind of veers into cheesy territory for me.
Destacan " Living After Midnight ", " Breaking the Law " y " United", esta última todo un himno. La primera es más rock AC/DC y muy coreable. También Steeler. Obra pionera de la nueva ola del heavy metal británico y quintaesencia del sonido Thrash Metal, cuando aun ni conocía. Una larga lista de bandas, comenzando por Metallica tienen una indudable inspiración en este álbum y en Judas Priest.
it was good and that's about it
Lidt for heavy, men god energi
I enjoyed this. Probably won’t go back for a second listen but it was good in the moment
not for me but i can appreciate that it exists! definitely hear how it inspired AC/DC and Metallica
Well, this is it. The 1000th album. I’ve finally made it to the namesake number. And what better album to ring in the 1001st than a mid British album which is dwarfed by its contemporaries and ages worse every year. Really it’s an encapsulation of much of this list, which badly needs refurbishing. Cut 400+ albums and replace them with a 2026 lens. Skip the nostalgia for the 70s and 80s and 90s and keep only that which has stood the test of time. We need better
I really liked this album in school
hade glömt hur glamiga judas priest var. Breaking the law är den enda låten som är värd att lyssna på.. svag 2a
Saved? ❌ Would listen again? ❌ Would recommend to anyone? ❌ Would buy on Vinyl? ❌
If you're enough of a nerd like me to obsess over the development of highly codified genres like Metal then Judas Priest are really interesting. They're older than most people realise being almost contemporaries of the big 70s rock acts but this album being such a commercial breakthrough in 1980 gets them categorised as NWOBHM alongside whippersnappers like Maiden, Saxon and Def Leppard. In some ways they are just as important or even more so than Sabbath in the development and codification of Metal, or at least the non doomy, non Satan referencing stuff. The popularity of the leather and studs look is down to them. Their faster riffing and occasional lack of swing in tunes like Grinder point towards Thrash more than the doom of Sabbath or the Rock n Roll but louder of Motörhead ever did. When they do sound like Rock and Roll in something like Living After Midnight they point towards Guns n Roses. I am choosing to believe Breaking the Law and Grinder can be both social commentary on the horrors of early Thatcherism and secret gay anthems.
British Steel is a great name for a rock album as judas priest is heavy metal. This album has quite a few bangers that I recognize from my childhood. It is always awesome to hear raging drums and chugging guitars
Hmm I dunno... I can listen to things 'like this' but then again very different from this. I cannot see the appeal really. The 'big ones' even are just not really doing it for me, I think it is really one-dimensional. I cant say for sure it was the case at the time but I feel like the lyrics are a relic of the past and just pretty cliche at this point. Maybe that is harsh for me to say about a record from 1980, but then again this review is done 46 years after. "United" just feels so incredibly out of place musically. I am feeling 2, but I am harsh here aswell. But I really do not think this has aged particularly well.
I mean it's fun but it gets really repetitive Highlights: the drums 2.0
British Steel by Judas Priest is very much classic 80s heavy rock and metal. It absolutely has its place and I can understand why it was influential, but listening to it now, a lot of it feels quite dated and, at times, a little cheesy. That said, there are definitely a couple of genuinely great songs here. “Living After Midnight” and “Breaking the Law” are classic rock tracks for a reason — big riffs, huge hooks and that unapologetically over-the-top rock-and-roll energy. They’re fun, catchy and easy to enjoy. Outside of those standout tracks though, I found much of the album fairly forgettable. Nothing is actively bad, but a lot of it blends together and feels like a parody of stereotypical dad rock or peak 80s heavy metal. The riffs are solid, but there just wasn’t enough variety or memorable songwriting to keep me fully engaged. Overall, I can appreciate its importance to the genre, but it’s probably not an album I’ll find myself coming back to. Favourite tracks: “Living After Midnight” is the clear standout for me Least favourite tracks: Nothing is terrible, but a lot of the album feels samey and leans heavily into cheesy 80s metal clichés Album artwork: Cool album cover
Couple of bangers but really dated metal
I mean, at least it's heavy? I'm good on this
Well I like it more than trash metal, but it’s not really my idea of fun. Impressed me more than I expected. 3
i feel like it would be better as an instrumental
Solid early Heavy Metal album. This is a 3 for me. I like the genre, just have not listed to much JP in the past. I would definitely listen again!
7.5/10
Not my jam.
Nice to hear
I kind of loved it - but creep spooky
great rock display. 4
Really enjoyed this, first time listener, and would definitely put it on again
This seemed so much scarier when we were younger. Now it’s a three star classic rock album. All their hits are here, and they’re better than every band they’ve influenced.
Great classic metal/rock album
nah
i appreciate everything you guys did for metal. however (comma) i liked it better when it was called "killing is my business and business is good". all the good stuff sounds like load metallica. nothing wrong with load metallica. they're just fine. which is the problem. 1.5-2.4. just listen to iron maiden like a good little NWOBHM fan.
🤘🤘
This record was just a bit before my time, but I can appreciate it. It’s got some classics on it, and it’s pretty fun. 7.5/10
I was really surprised to see that according to 15 years of last.fm stats, I’ve never once listened to Judas Priest until today. For such a popular and influential band in the rock/metal scene, I was quite astonished that I’d missed them all this time. For a first listen, this was pretty top quality. It had all the good elements of classic hard rock. The final song, Red, White and Blue, was my pick of the bunch, although I’m not sure it technically counts as it’s a bonus track and wasn’t part of the original release. This could have potential for a 4 with repeated spins & kore familiarity, but for now I’m giving it a high 3.
Muy buen disco, yo catalogaría personalmente a Judas Priest como Glam Rock, aunque sé que no cumple con todos los requisitos. Mis favoritas: Metal Gods, United y Living After Midnight.
i dont know if it's metal since i can understand the vocals sometimes but overall a fun listen.
One of the better heavy metal albums and a great group live. Good driving music if you want a speeding ticket
How is THIS heavy metal???? I think I just don't understand what constitutes since the screamy-scream bands of the 00s have truly skewed that meter. Anyways, loved it.
Not a genre I usually listen to. I do find the lyrics cringe but the music was good.
Highly influential metal album, but dated. This album, and Judas Priest in general, bring what a heavy metal album and band should be to the 80's. The lyrics are a bit shallow, but they lean into what the market needed at the time. The music is timeless. The look is spot on. My rating: 5/5 overall, but it's really a 4 just for the music.
I feel like a lot of classic metal can be quite samey to be but there were quite a few little flourishes here that made it more enjoyable than usual, like the weird breathy vocal percussion on Metal Gods. Also it’s quite camp and Breaking The Law is great
This was a lot of fun. Much better than I remember.
Listens: 2 Standout Tracks: Breaking the Law This was a decent heavy metal album, but I didn't find Judas Priest as enjoyable as Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden or Metallica. I thought Judas Priest went in for a bit more of the "hail Satan" satanic-panic themes of heavy metal, but this album didn't seem to have anything of the sort.
breakin the law, breakin the law vOv
The Rage
I dunno if I loved this one as much as I was expecting to. If I'm in the mood for this kind of 80s metal, it really hits good but for this listen my head and heart wasn't really into it. I was never into Judas Priest growing up and this listen kinda vindicated my disinterest It was all kind of bland. Nothing here really had an edge to it which is funny considering the razor cover art. The only standout track I wrote down was "United" because it was the only one that didn't sound exactly like all the others. "Steeler" was ok too. It's a meh 3/5 for me. Maybe with some more listens I'd find more to like.
It doesn’t really go as hard as I would hope. I expected some real rage and heat, but it just kind of came off as a slightly harder classic rock album. It’s a well made, the music is good, the lyrics are good, and it’s well produced. It just didn’t evoke anything that substantial. A bit of a let down, really.
This isn’t really my thing, but I found myself enjoying this more than I thought I would. Still, it’s a three star album for me, and one that I wouldn’t bother listening to again.
Fine. The good songs are good. The rest is forgettable. Judas Priest has a giant metal footprint though. So, respect
Six tracks in and I'm bored to shit. No thanks 1/5
divertido, buena guitarra y vocales, favs "Breaking the Law" y "Grinder" 3.7
Judas Priest is a vaguely familiar name, though I'm not entirely sure where I've heard it being passed around. Anyways, this is very obviously a metal album when going by the artist/album name, band logo, album cover and year of release. I'm always happy whenever the genre predictions are easy. Let's get into it. Eeyup, feels good to be right. I've long made peace with the fact that metal isn't my thing and I am disappointed to once again announce that an album from the genre isn't to my liking. The songs have strong beginnings and a commendable level of variety, though something about my brain shuts off and filters out the rest of this music as soon as it kicks in. Still, this album is solid when taken for what it is. The songwriting is generally solid and is elevated by the swaggering guitars which underscore many of the vocal melodies. The more intense offerings are also adept, with the breakneck percussion and rough, raw sound of the guitars moving the pieces along effectively. However, while the songwriting is generally competent, I felt that the vocal performances were a little impersonal and derivative, which dragged my opinion of this album down a peg. Overall, I commend this album for being exactly what it's wants to be. I just don't care much for its vision. Book time. There's apparently intense debate among Judas Priest fans over what their best release is, to which the book pins this album as their "definitive" album. The cover artwork is iconic and regularly appears on t-shirts. British Steel embodies the sentiment of metal listeners at the time, who "...craved sounds more streetwise than prog rock, yet were alienated by punk's posturing and anti-musicality." The album was recorded on a country property that Lennon had previously lived in, which the frontman was jubilant about. Wikipedia says this album was more commercial than their previous ventures and had three successful singles, two of which are now radio staples. It was also their breakthrough release and is considered a landmark album in the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" movement (what a mouthful). Critics liked it, with the album having received enduring acclaim in the years following release. The album peaked at No. 4 in the UK, but had a more mild performance in the four other countries where it charted. The album didn't make any year-end charts, though it did re-enter the charts in a few more countries when an anniversary edition was released in 2010 - notably peaking at No. 4 in Greece. Not quite the commercial performance I was expecting, though the critics liked this album and it does appear to be a reflection of the times. If there really is a divide among what people consider to be Judas Priest's best album, then I think it can be stood to reason that these guys deserve another entry. For the time being, however, I'm content to let this one through. I cosign this inclusion.
Listened on: Spotify Listening experience: Interrupted over two sessions - train and car Definitely not what I would have picked for a Monday evening commute - but wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be once I got used to the fact. Sounds like Black Sabbath - but I would choose Black Sabbath. I know nothing about Judas Priest and definitely had never heard any of the songs on this album - that was a novel experience. I liked the guitar solos the best. Grinder was catchy. I might listen to that song again, but don’t think I would replay the whole album.
Judas Priest is a band that reaches for the obvious cliches and metaphors, and yet there is no band like them. Their enthusiasm for all things metal is contagious. When Halford screams you don’t know what it’s like, you want to believe, but as a Priest fan, I’m pretty sure I do. All hail the self described metal gods.
Maybe I don't understand the intricacies of this genre, but it all just sounds the same.
I like the Britishness of this album and it’s nod to the British heavy industries which in 1980 were still alive but about to be consigned to history by Maggie Thatcher. If this was a good thing or not depends on your own viewpoint which is a bit like this album and the metal genre in general. It’s fine for what it is but not an album I would ever go out and buy. Ok to stick on when busy with other things but not one for a listening session. 3/5 28/5/26
its worse van halen? it has breaking the law on it, which i guess is cool? its kinda slow and lethargic for this kind of hair metal or black metal or 80s metal? its legit boring? where the fuck is the energy? wheres the nerve and the pizzazz? where, i ask? ugh. lameeeee ass. get to work you generic wonks.
No es mío, pero es divertido
I'm not much of a metal head these days, not like I was in my youth, but there are some classic acts I've hung on to and I still have a handful of Judas Priest albums, this is a classic of the genre, an inspiration for a lot that was to follow. Three huge singles that everybody can sing along with, 'Breaking The Law', 'United' and 'Living After Midnight', classic twin guitars throughout. Digital sampling was yet to come in 1980 so there are some old school recording techniques used to get the sounds of 'metal', including dropping a tray of cutlery on the floor. Must have album in any metal collection.
decent for metal
A perfectly competent and enjoyable 80's heavy metal record. Honestly on par with some of the works of Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden. The singles were pretty recognizable, but the rest stood on its own for the most part too.
Repeat listen
Was never for me.
Well executed but metal guitar solos just don't do it for me and they all end up sounding a bit samey.
Polished awesome metal with unique phrasing and sweet story telling - I never gave them a fair listen.
Did not enjoy it at all. The production is very mechanical and synthetic and the vocals sound flat as fuck. The start is bearable but then it switches into cheesy dad metal. I know they can do better.
For some reason I used to think these guys were cooler. This album feels kind of weak.
Dang good 3.5/5
Oddly not as hard as a remember, but super melodic and enjoyable tunes too to bottom. And those guitars. Refreshing surprise!
8 - rocks
I bought this album on release. I had already listened to Unleashed in the East and Killing Machine (I can’t remember which was first) and then Stained Class, possibly Sin After Sin as well, so I was primed for British Steel. And I didn’t like it… Listening more recently, I am not sure why. I sold the album and didn’t really listen to Judas Priest, apart from the odd song, until about 10 years ago. This is a really consistent album. Priest were one of the first bands to fully embrace the Heavy Metal label and British Steel built on its predecessors from the off - “Rapid Fire”, “Metal Gods”, “Steeler”, anthems in “United”, “Breaking the Law”, “Living After Midnight”, the hiding in plain sight of “Grinder” (Rob Halford is a legend). I do recall disliking the Police-like choppy guitar in “The Rage”, now one of the standouts for me. I do think there are better individual songs on earlier albums, and more subtlety, but British Steel is a classic, an incredibly influential album.
Muy buen disco y muy buena banda! Primera vez que la escucho, me dió un estilo como Iron Maiden. Muy recomendado!
I'm not the biggest metal guy, but this was a solid album. I've sung "breaking the law, breaking the law" to myself many times over the years during many different events, but this was my first Priest album and I had a good time listening.
Even though I’m not a huge fan of heavy metal, I have to admit, this album is really solid. I’m not an expert, but I can see why it might be considered a classic in the genre.
I was not expecting to like this as much as I did. Very solid musically, just not my thing. Also, Grinder is hilarious
Very nice album, would listen to again. Had good riffs and solos, I enjoyed its harshness. 4.5/5
Really good album, loved the energy, the riffs, the songs. Especially United & Breaking the Law
Number: 130 Date: 05/13/2026 Artist: Judas Priest Album: British Steel Year: 1980 Style: Metal Familiarity: Familiar (2) Rating: 1 Before: ======= Don't know much about Judas Priest. I was never into metal, The most metal band I used to listen to is Ministry. During: ======= I had to skip through most of this. I do remember “Breaking the Law” but I think that song could be so much better. The version on the album is kind of lame., imo. 2 Rapid Fire 4:07 1 Metal Gods 3:58 2 Breaking The Law 2:34 1 Grinder 3:56 1 United 3:31 2 You Don't Have To Be Old To Be Wise 5:03 2 Living After Midnight 3:30 1 The Rage 4:43 1 Steeler 4:28 ----------------------------------------------------- 1.43 WEIGHTED AVERAGE (accounts for song lengths) After : ======= As I said, I don't like metal. I'm giving it a decent score for suitability and impact though I really don't have clue about that, just basing it on reviews I've read. 1 my personal rating 5 suitability for this list 4 impact ----------------------------------------------- 3.3 composite rating
\m/
Pretty good! I will say though, there are two genuinely horrible songs that tarnish this album. Most albums have a stinker, but "United" and "Red White & Blue" are absolute ass.
Listened 11 May 2026. Album is full of decent heavy metal anthems, with a number of singles in strong rotation on radio stations. Despite being 46 years old, it still holds it's own.
girls this is a metal album idk what else to tell u
BREAKIN THE LAW! Awesome album front to back driving rhythms and beating drums. Fun!
5.5/10 not much to say
A ripping roaring rocker! These guys kick ass and if it wasn’t for the “Red white and blue” song this would be close to a 5
Not my jam. I don’t really like metal or heavy rock and this seemed like an eternal slog despite its 45 minute run time
Sound like they were trying to be the British version of AC/DC. Sorry guys AC/DC did it better.
Metal Classic. A solid good time. 4/5
Priest Rules! Go watch Heavy Metal Parking Lot. Capital Centre Largo, Maryland May 31, 1986 "I'm David Hilby, I'm 20 years old. I'm ready to rock!" "What's your name?" "Graham, man, like gram of dope." "Heavy metal rules" "Where'd you come from tonight?" "Reston. Mayberry, USA!" "Timmy loved Judas Priest" "I'm Kelly McCullis, don't drink and drive, we're at the Judas Priest concert, get away from me, please!"
chill
Late drive home after work. Was fine
A younger me would have rated this a 4 but now it hits more like a 3.5. I still enjoy this more than the majority of albums I’ve been given so far but it’s clearly not Judas Priest’s best. Glad I finally listened though, British Steel was always a bit of a blindspot for me in my Metal days. Steeler sure is proto Electric Eye though, huh?
Fun. For some reason liked it a lot more than other albums of it's ilk
All I can think of listening to Judas Priest is Beavis and Butthead, which I would rather be listening to instead. Not my type of music.
A decent heavy metal album. I’m very familiar with Breaking the Law and Living After Midnight, but every other tune was new to me. Heavy metal isn’t really my jam, but I was able to listen to this once without issue. The beats on a few of the songs were great and kept my attention.
From now on, my life will be divided into two distinct segments: the time before I listened to Grinder (Live from Long Beach, California) and everything that came after that startling moment. I had no idea how bad this whole ‘Judas Priest is a real band’ thing had become until then. Real people actually went to see them and cheered for them. I’m dumbfounded.
British Steel isn't my favorite Judas Priest album, if I'm being honest there's a song or two i really hate on here, but it's a damn fine album nonetheless. Couple iconic songs and more than a few ripping bangers make this a great listen.
much more indebted to Sabbath and Zeppelin than their album from a decade later. slower, bluesier sounding. not as intense by any means. vocals can get a little bit grating and United is just syrupy as hell. still pretty alright. having a few "hell yeah \m/" riffs never hurts. deserves to be one of the 1001? i mean it's certainly not undeserving but over Screaming for Vengeance and PAINKILLER??? no thank you. the metal selection on this list is weird and sticks out as unrepresentative to me, and i barely go out of my way to listen to the stuff.
Fantastic album. Reminds me a bit of Iron Maiden at times and easy to listen to. 5/5
Some of the music is hokey by today’s metal standards, particularly the bizarrely patriotic tracks. But Halford is indisputably one of the most badass singers of all time and it’s incredible how he was able to pitch these songs that are clearly about gay sex over the heads of two decades of homophobic metalheads.
Since 2020, once a year, usually in January, I do a Judas Priest discography listen; as many JP albums (often, but not always, in chronological order) as I can over the course of one or two days. I can't remember exactly how this started, but I imagine it came a desire to greater appreciate the heavy metal canon. Priest has kind of escaped me over the years, but these marathons have given me a greater appreciation for their sound and contributions to heavy metal. That said, British Steel is not my favorite work of theirs and this listen did nothing to improve my opinion. It's a good record, and should be looked upon favorably, but I suspect the reason it's held in such high regard is because of it's mainstream appeal at the time of release. It's definitely more streamlined; there are more singalongs and the classic hit "Breaking the Law". It generally has more of a 'meat and potatoes' feel to it, rather than offering anything particularly heavy or challenging. That's not to put British Steel down. Any Priest is better than no Priest, but, again, I would rank other Judas Priest albums higher.
A cup of tea not made for me
No lo escuché porque detesto el rock yanki, pero lo banco porque tiene temas muy iconicos
In my 40+ years I have met exactly one person who told me that Judas Priest was their favorite band. That's not really relevant but I always thought it was interesting. There are three things I always think when I hear Judas Priest: 1) the guitars are skillful yet mundane. 2) the drums are always better than expected. and 3) Rob Halford is an absolute beast of a vocalist and should get more credit than he does. I feel like this album perfectly demonstrates all three of those things. I mean if you've ever listened to classic rock radio, nothing here should really be a surprise. Well maybe the random inclusion of what sounds like an British pub song towards the end. But it's a fun album, an influential one, and definitely deserves a place on the list. 4/5
BREAKING DA LAW BREAKING DA LAW BREAKING DA LAW
album #41 BREAKING THE LAW! BREAKING THE LAW! ꩜ average track rating: 2.95/5 ꩜ favourite track(s): breaking the law, united, rapid fire ꩜ least favourite track(s): red white blue, grinder (live) ꩜ album rating: ★★★⯪☆ ꩜ number of albums left to review: 1,048 ꩜ number of albums from the list that i agree with being on the list: 25 (+1 British Steel) ꩜ albums from the list that I would consider on my list: 9 ꩜ albums from the list I won't include on my list: 32
I think it was corny and over the top.
'Pounding the world / Like a bat-ter-ing ram.' These so-called 'metal gods' are ear-shat-ter-ing hams: they're not exactly actorly b/c their acting skills are awful, but they're performative & only this, i.e., you can detect nothing genuine in their bang-&-thud rhythms. They're never 'breaking the law' - their sonics are too formulaic - tho they go around pretending that they're rough & tough. 'So keep it up / Don't give in / Make a stand / We're gonna win.' That's honestly the only moment that's so bad it's almost good. I've always wanted to develop a taste for metal, especially 80s metal, one that is appreciative of camp & fantasy. I've yet to succeed, b/c besides a few moments of instrumental inventiveness & pop sensibilities, this is dreadful.
It was fun but I don’t love this era of metal in general. It’s all a little campier than I’m looking for when I listen to metal. Fav song: The Rage
Oooh look at us we're Judas Priest we use religious imagery and put razor blades on our album covers. Ooh look at us we're Judas Priest we use a double kick drum, of course we're metal. I am so incredibly bored by this glam rock-ified approach to heavy rock music. It dictionaries included sonic entries as definitions, this album would be the use case for "sell out". This album is lazy, uninspired, and has aged horribly. Not only could you go your whole life without listening to it, you could probably go 10,000 lives without listening to it. Hell, Spinal Tap makes better music than this album, and they are a parody of this very music. One star. Favorite track: none
Metal, but not obnoxious
Boring. Also British metal vocalists sound funny
Very boring ):
Passable metal
history aside, this album just does not stand as well as other Judas Priest albums afterwards. Outside of a few tracks it hasn't aged too well imo and I just honestly thought if I wanted 70s/80s streamlined metal id rather just listen to KISS. I love Judas Priest but this does not hit.
there are two classic tracks here. breaking the “smoke on the water” effect of a very solid memorable but easy to play riff, living after midnight is solid pop rock with a good chorus. the rest of this album just sucks. forgettable riffs that sound like they were designed for a guitar hero solo, painfully obvious and corny lyrics, a drummer doing only slightly more than the minimum to keep a rhythm going, solos just tastelessly waffle on with patternless shredding. you dont have to be old to be wise was so cheesy it made me laugh out loud. red white and blue is just plain embarrassing to me. lame as hell.
Classic. Shades of Metalica & AC/DC.
OK I liked this one waaaaaay more than I expected to. The nice thing about this kind of metal is that it's simultaneously can be serious music while not taking itself seriously. I like that. I love that Halford just married his partner of 30 years. That's really sweet. I also speaks to the metal community that this guy was out in the 80s and they didn't care one whit. They just love the guy and want him to ROCK. Also: did Grinder take it's name from the song on this album? :-)
Not my cup of tea
Sonically, this is an early metal album. Metal is a style of music I don't usually reach for (and I still don't think I will at this point). The songs were certainly all high energy with plenty of guitar solos throughout, but they didn't really differentiate too much from each other. "The Rage" is the exception to that, it was more experimental and I would have liked to hear more songs like that one (the bass line carried it well). I'll also praise the drummer because the beat was steady and consistent and my foot was tapping along pretty much the whole time. I'm just not into the classic feel of this album, but it's listenable.
no just no! add them to my list w deep purple
This album grew on me the more I listened. This is kick ass blue collar rock & roll. Killer front man Rob Halford with his iconic growls & howls is not a screamer but actually a really good singer. Drummer Dave Holland is out of control. Grinder, Steeler, & You Don’t Have to Be Old are standouts.
An anthem for those who are discontent, defiant, and hear the battle cry. It's a call to arms, at least in attitude. Put on your metal and join in.
As good as any metal to come out on its wake. The secret - mids and low end. 80s metal was a race to the highest registers of guitars and voices - all falsettos and high neck bends. Here you have an actually powerful voice that flexes occasionally into the upper registers but works his full range. And the dueling KK Downing and Glenn Tipton - they simply cook whether riffing or soloing. And the songs. Are you kidding me? So fun to kick it with these boys.
Enjoyed this.
na minha época de rock eu tb não dei conta de gostar de judas priest, mas entendo pq o pessoal gosta tanto não eh a minha vibe mas n é ruim
tá aí uma banda que eu nunca gostei mto, nem na minha época de rock mas é até que legalzim. breaking the ló é um clássico mas o resto não fica mto atras não. bacaninha, até
Although not the genre of the music I prefer, this record is history and good music.
I actually really enjoyed this. It maintains the energy of classic metal and has good riffs, but it’s clear that they hadn’t yet reached the variety and musical quality they would achieve in Painkiller. There isn’t anything wrong with this record, and there isn’t anything amazing about it. It’s a classic, but not absolutely jaw dropping.
Funny to think that as a teen, I thought this was so "hard". But, with the benefit of age and wisdom, I realize that "hard" isn't really the point. This is just a bunch of great performances of great songs and it holds together well after all this time. A pleasure blast from the past.
Influential for sure. Classic heavy metal. Love the crunchy power chords.
Reminds me of classic got better throughout the album
#335/1001. If I would be cruel, my review would be like this: I don't need to listen to this album backwards in order to want to kill myself. But I am not cruel. Instead, I confess: I used to own one Judas Priest album.
Fun British heavy metal album
Pretty banging album, and when “Breaking The Law” came on, it transported me back to my youth of watching Beavis & Butthead. lol
Solid British metal. A good listen, but not unlike a lot of other metal I listened to back in the day. It's good, not great. 3.5/5
God
This is yet another band whose artistic output I was familiar with is relegated to just 1-2 songs. So I really had no idea what this album was going to sound like and I really, really enjoyed it. I always thought bands like Judas Priest were very, very, very hardcore rock but they are more of a heavier AC/DC and I am here for it. This came out in 1980 which puts them right in line with Back in Black, so it was a very good year for hard rock music. British Steel walked so that The Black Album could run a decade later. Are the lyrics on here going to end up on thousands of yearbook quote pages? Probably not, but there it seems to me the sound is cleaner and Judas Priest has managed to not forsake the metal sound they seem to enjoy playing. This was a fun surprise for me. I also can't help but wonder if "Grinder" is how the dating app "Grindr" got its name. Probably not. I would recommend every song on the album, with Steeler being my least favorite. I am glad I got to listen to British Steel.
I am aware of the existence of Judas Priest. This came out when I was in high school - but I never really got into them at the time nor since. I'm sure the only songs I've ever heard from them would have been their radio singles - but I never once just sat and listened to this or any of their other albums front to back. So here goes... Ok, I vaguely remember the songs "Living After Midnight" and "Breaking the Law". I thought they were kinda dumb songs at the time. I guess that's why I never dug deeper. I just noticed that part of the vocals on "Breaking The Law" sounds like David Bowie. I can see how Metallica took some of their shtick from this. The growls at the end of each line for example. Also, the song "Rapid Fire" kind of sounds like Metallica (to my non-metal head ears). I just don't get into most heavy metal. It just seems stupid to me. I'm sure that's a me problem since I know lots of people love this stuff. It just feels like fake anger and that they are just posing as rebellion. Oh my gosh, you're staying up past midnight and rocking until the dawn - such a rebel. What will your parents think?? And now you're Breaking the Law - oh no - what are we gonna do with this wild child?? Haha! Funny reading that the movie Spinal Tap was spoofing this somewhat - I was the kid that loved Spinal Tap (I used to, but I still do too) for making fun of this kind of stuff. Tap is a better band than these guys. There I said it, and I don't care who disagrees. I went back and looked - in 1980 I was spending more time listening to groups like The Police, Pretenders, Cars, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Tom Petty, Springsteen, The Kinks. These are all artists I still like. Judas Priest just didn't interest me at the time, and still doesn't apparently. I don't need to hear any of this again. Liked songs on Spotify: 0/11 Rating: 1/5 (should be zero)
I am not really a fan of heavy metal and this album from 1980 already showed what was to come later in the 80s. It was listenable, and they are good musicians...it's just not my cup of tea.
#911. I saw these guys play live a few years ago, and Rob Halford has a costume change between each song, it seemed. It's honestly impressive how fast this 143 year old man can change out of an into various leather outfits. Also: maybe you'll call me slow (especially since I've listened to the song Grinder probably a couple dozen times before), but it wasn't until I was listening to that song today that it clicked and I realized why the Grindr app is called that. 4/5: cheesy, but brilliant
noooo
Priest is one of the pillars of metal. Metal Gods. Breaking the Law. United. Living. After Midnight. This album rocks. They're still performing and are incredible.
I have very little experience with Judas Priest. This was great. I want to listen to this way more. Amazing energy, what I needed. When something is this solid it can be hard to find something to say other than great.
Hmm, this is one where I can acknowledge that they are good at what they do and there are some bangers here but it’s not really my thing and not something I would ever choose to listen to
Classic metal.
Uffa! Rocanrol :D
Meh
Spinal tap have ruined this kind of music for me, everything sounds like a parody...
Basic early 80s “metal” not bad but not stand out for me
Wanted this to be closer to Metallica then rush
Never was a fan of JP, but as I’m finding now that I’m 15 albums in, listening to an album from beginning to end does give context and better understanding of a group’s music.
Actual Rating: 3.5/5
A couple of duds but overall this is a really good album
Good Heavy Metal, it's a little overrated compared to Stained Class, Screaming for Vengeance, Defenders of Faith and Painkiller but it's fun. Does have strong riffing, some fast solos and the BPM are enough to keep headbanging.
3/5 Decent but not great. There were better Judas Priest albums before this one and they’d go on to put out a few records much better than this one after. The record does have a very strong opening stretch though running from “Rapid Fire” to “Grinder.” But then it hits a brick wall with the overly cheesy and sappy “United.” the lyrics in general are a weak point for me. But there’s still enough great riffs on here for it to be an enjoyable experience.
Amazing album for driving. Did pick up a bit of speed while Rapid Fire, Metal Gods and Breaking the Law were playing. Great drumming driving the whole record and the singing was amazing too
Very loud bombastic and fast. Nonsensical as well but for its kind a worthy effort. Not for me though
I was surprised at how poppy this album was. I didn’t object. I added “United” to my Generator playlist.
Pleasently surprised by this one. It's not just metal, its mixed with heavy rock, stadium rock etc... Metal is not always my thing, but loved listening to this one. 1. Breaking the law 2. United 3. Living after midnight
ifw this album. i really enjoyed myself
C+
It’s alright. Doesn’t make me feel any sort of way. Not bad, just not all that exciting or interesting. Breaking the Law is pretty fun though.
Aside from a couple of clunkers (IMO, I know: United, Red, White and Blue), this is an OG banger from track #1. Anyone interested in the blossoming of NWOBHM should start here.
Good stuff.
Undeniably good heavy metal music, maybe just not my cup of tea.
the song "grinder" had very funny lyrics. "GRINDERRRRR...... LOOKING FOR MEAT" made em laugh, and, after the fact, i found out judas priest's frontman, Rob Halford, is Gay! Obvs this song predates the app by decades, but what a funny conincidence. Music goes hard af though.
Fast, high energy, and more melodic than I expected. Trite lyrics at times though.
Judas Priest is a criminally underrated and underappreciated band. They essentially invented then popularized the studs and leather heavy metal look, along with the two guitar attack. So many bands would never have existed without these guys blazing the trail first. Beyond that, the music kicks ass.
The metal from which all metal has metaled. You have to throw the goat up and salute its magnificence.
Iconic album cover, and Rob Halford deserves eternal credit for being one of the first if not the first openly gay mainstream metal singers. Which is curious in retrospect, really, considering how much of the metal aesthetic - leather, spikes and studs and rivets, that very very overtly manliness stuff - today is also very much associated with the gay scene. Anyway. Metal isn't really my scene,by and large, but some of the lyrics (something about pounding the world like a battering ram) are (involuntarily?) funny
also didnt get to listen to it
Loved tracks like Breaking The Law, The Rage, Red, White & Blue, Metal Gods and Living After Midnight
#shtwt? FAVS (top 3): breaking the law, united, you dont have to be old to be wise mençoes honrosas: the rage podia ser melhor, nada de muito surreal mas é bom de certa maneira nota final: 3/5
A good reliable headbangin set of songs. yummers
A classic. Judas priest has an incredible sound. This album has a few stinkers but when it hits it hits
Pretty awesome. Love the guitars and drums and they definitely feel ahead of their time. Only issue is it's a bit samey and repetitive apart from the odd moment through the album.
Demasiado metalero, pero 2 canciones buenas. Destaco United y The Rage
Judas Priest are one of my favorite bands so I was thrilled to finally get this album! I forgot just how good it was. There are some absolutely timeless riffs in these songs. From "Breaking the Law" to "Living After Midnight" and all inbetween. Its an easy 5/5 for me. Side note: I can see why this album, over other Priest albums, is included in this list. However, I would have included Painkiller instead of, or addition to, this one as I think that is the far superior Judas Priest album.
Gotta say, this list is making me realize I kinda like late 70's early 80's British thrash metal.
I’m surprised this is metal, because I didn’t hate it? Maybe that’s why all the metal and Judas Preist fans seem to say this is their worst album? Just going off the reviews here. It’s digestible metal, for the non-metal listeners like myself.
****
Pretty good for the first Judas Priest album I’ve listened to. Some were a little slower than others but overall it was good.
Pas si mal finalement
Not for me
Fine. A bit too old to be nice
I looked forward to listening to this because this is leagues better than Buffalo Springfield. Still not my genre
I love Priest, but not this album. They have probably 10 albums I like more than this one. It's a little too restrained, streamlined and samey for my taste. Nevertheless, Breaking the Law is an all time iconic metal song (deservedly so) and I can see how the album would have been influential back in 1980, so my 3.5 gets rounded up. Painkiller or Sad Wings of Destiny would have gotten 5.
1.5
Breaking the law, breaking the law
Oh, no thank you
Awful, one dimensional bad metal
This came dangerously close to a three as it’s an album better than its singles suggest, but even then the best of it feels like Sabbath-lite, and the worst of it, the terrible ‘United’, is simply unacceptable.
The first song worried me but the whole album is great
Didn't make me want to barf
"Breaking The Law! Breaking The Law!"
(5/7) apparently recorded in Ringo's house
Not too big a fan of the vocals, but most songs are pretty good.
Classic rock, felt like Tenacious D but serious.
I have a feeling this might not be for me, as metal in general is just not my genre. But hey, let's our minds open right It starts of nice! Rapid Fire, while very energetic and full of noise, is tight and controlled enough to the point where I can enjoy it! The classic metal vocals are present, and they don't bother me here, yeeeeeyyyyyy. Even the riffs are great. Same thing for the following song. I think that Breaking the Law is a metal classic? From that title alone it probably ticks a lot of boxes for a lot of people. Anyway, I hade never heard it, and I like it. Lyric-wise, I might prefer the previous two songs (even if I didn't pay that much attention to what they were saying), simply thanks to the fact that they are not so on the nose. But I have to admit that the chorus and especially the ending here are great, and very energetic. Grinder keeps the fun going, and while everyone seems to be on their A-game the vocals are what impressed me the most here. Great performance. The guitar riff carries United, but it doesn't do enough to make the song good. First dud. Bad lyrics. The clapping part is honestly embarassingly bad. You Don't Have to be Old to be Wise is another dud. It reminds me of when pop artists just pick a saying and make a song around it, doing it just for the sake of it, and not because they have something they want to communicate. Maybe they had to fill the runtime with something, I don't know. Nor particularly inspired (and I'm not talking only about the lyrics). Living After Midnight picks up steam, but is not on the same level as the first few tracks. The Rage, however, brings the quality back! The vocals shine again, but my favourite part has to be the first guitar solo (even if the bass line after it is great as well). Steeler, the closer, starts off highly energetic, and keeps that level going throughout. Incredibly fun! I enjoyed this :) ! It's not the kind of metal that goes too far up its own ass, and manages to be cool without being corny. This is what I mean when I say that I can start a record with a bad feeling about it and completely change my mind when the music is actually good (which hasn't happened often in this list). Maybe my enjoyment is tarnished because this is baby's first metal record (or almost that) but hey, at first listen, it's good! A couple duds here in the middle, but the beginning and end of the record are just too good! Bye
Great album if in the mood for something with a similar but more metal feel/ less of a ballad compared to iron maiden.
"British Steel" is the sixth studio album by English heavy metal band Judas Priest. It was the first album to feature Dave Holland on drums and was recorded at Ringo Starr's home at Tittenhurst Park with producer Tom Allom. Other bandmembers included Rob Halford (vocals), K.K. Downing (guitars), Glenn Tipton (guitars) and Ian Hill (bass). The album had positive reviews with one critic citing it as "kick starting heavy metal's glory days of the 1980's, and, commercially, it reached #4 on the UK Albums Chart and #34 in the US. A rapid and grinding guitar with pounding drums opens the album in "Rapid Fire." Very much what would be called thrash. You know you're in for a ride when Halford's first lyrics are "Pounding the world like a battering ram." A restless driving song which ends with a screaming outro. "Breaking the Law" has a melodic metal guitar riff. Halford's preaching, emotional and screaming as he takes in rebellion and the struggles of the working class. No, I did not think of Beavis cutting off Butthead's finger with a chainsaw while singing this song. The band is setting up future audiences for anthemic concert chanting and singalongs in "United." Echoing guitars and drums. A thumping bass in a slower, heavier song. They get a nice, crunchy guitar going in "Living After Midnight." Halford bringing it in full throttle mode as he relishes living life at 1 AM. Speaking of anthems, one of best metal ones out there. No, my head was not bobbing. The band remembers to finish strong and does so in "Steeler." Fast pace, relentless. Repetitive guitar riff and beat. And, maybe the best guitar solo on the album. Driving, fast paced and heavy with repetitive guitar riffs and beats. The music can land in thrash, AC/DC-ish especially the rhythm and rhythm guitar, slow/grinding and anthemic singalongs. Halford has a classic voice for the music with lyrics of freedom, independence and working-class repression. The future influences are evident; Metallica's first album is an obvious choice. This a classic heavy metal album that is a must for fans of that style.
Sounds like a cross between black sabbath and iron maiden, two kinds I quite like. This feels like a real fork in the road influencing both the best and worst of hard rock bands to come. Overall I like it
Was a bit sceptical at first but kind of got into the groove. Still not something I would listen to on my own account
Great album, classic songs, a couple of weak numbers, so a 4 from me
This was my original introduction to Judas Priest. I think they have a couple of better albums (Painkiller, Turbo) but this one is still great. Plenty of catchy songs. Just tails off a bit in the last few.
Meh
I enjoyed the sound of the hard rock album.
Pure entertainment
i think they want to break the law
Was raised on Defenders Of The Faith and now regret not branching out. Hard to believe this was '79. Very well produced for the genre then. Loves it!