Judas Priest / Sabaton
Rosemont Theatre
Rosemont, IL
Sept. 20th, 2021
Judas Priest rolled through Rosemont, IL on a warm Monday evening to bring a packed house their special “50 Heavy Metal Years” tour. Even though the band themselves may have aged and lineups changed with time, Halford and company command the stage like most bands could only dream of.
With a setlist that was full of songs not normally included on tours including “One Shot At Glory”, “A Touch Of Evil”, and “Rocka Rolla” the band gave fans deep cuts they could only dream of while making sure to play the hits. Andy Sneap fills in the role of Glenn Tipton great since Tiptons departure from touring in early 2018 and Richie Faulkner made sure to keep the energy going nonstop with excellent playing to the crowd.
It has to be noted that Rob Halford looks incredible but sounds even better. For as long as Halford has been going he seems to just be getting better with age. Hitting high notes as if it was easy and even guttural deep vocals at a point Halford strolled along the stage commanding the crowd with ease. Fist bumps were given galore and even putting the mic out for fans to sing along, Halford made sure fans in attendance were given their money worth.
Opening the night were Swedens Sabaton bringing their brand of war metal to the crowd. Frontman Joakim Brodén between songs had to thank Priest because as he stated “how many bands would let the opening bring a full tank on stage”, which is what their drummer sat atop for the set. The band did a solid job at getting fans in their seats to get up and going for the show as the entire band gave nonstop energy to those who showed up early.
