Judas Priest Launches “Shield Of Pain” Tour in Turku, Finland
Celebrating a Milestone
British heavy metal icons Judas Priest kicked off their highly anticipated “Shield Of Pain” tour on June 12, 2025, at Rockfest in Turku, Finland. This tour coincides with the 35th anniversary of their seminal album, “Painkiller,” which was released in 1990.
A Setlist to Remember
The band’s electrifying performance featured a 19-song setlist that paid homage to “Painkiller,” with seven tracks from the album included. Fans were treated to the title track “Painkiller,” alongside other classics such as “All Guns Blazing,” “Hell Patrol,” “A Touch Of Evil,” “Night Crawler,” “One Shot At Glory,” and “Between The Hammer And The Anvil.”
Rockfest Setlist
The setlist for the Rockfest concert included:
- All Guns Blazing (Performed for the first time since 2019; first time as an opener)
- Hell Patrol
- You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’
- Freewheel Burning
- Breaking The Law
- A Touch Of Evil
- Night Crawler (First time since 2012)
- Firepower
- Solar Angels (First time since 2005)
- Gates Of Hell
- Metal Gods
- The Serpent And The King (Live debut)
- One Shot At Glory
- Between The Hammer And The Anvil
- Judas Rising
- Giants In The Sky (Live debut)
- Painkiller
- Hell Bent For Leather
- Living After Midnight
Unique Tour Experience
When Judas Priest announced the “Shield Of Pain” tour last fall, they promised fans a “rare” and “unique set” that would feature both beloved classics and new surprises. The band aimed to “defend the metal faith” and create a memorable experience for audiences throughout Europe.
Rob Halford’s Insights
In a recent interview, lead singer Rob Halford discussed the evolving setlist for the tour, expressing excitement over showcasing “Painkiller” songs. He emphasized the album’s significance, stating, “You’ll only see the ‘Shield Of Pain’ show once. So, we hope our fans will be on the rail and banging their heads to it.”
Looking Back at “Painkiller”
Rob Halford reflected on the mindset that drove the creation of “Painkiller,” highlighting the band’s commitment to producing their heaviest and most energetic album to date. Recorded at Miraval Studios in France, the album marked the debut of drummer Scott Travis, whose contributions significantly shaped the band’s sound.
The Impact of Scott Travis
Founding guitarist K.K. Downing noted that Travis’s addition opened new musical doors for the band, allowing them to explore faster tempos and complex rhythms. The album’s iconic title track is celebrated not only for its musical intensity but also for its legendary drum intro, which Travis discussed in interviews, expressing his pride in creating a signature sound for the band.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Following the Rockfest kickoff, Judas Priest will continue their European tour, making stops throughout the continent, including Hamar, Norway, on June 14, and concluding at the O2 in London on July 25.
Conclusion
The launch of the “Shield Of Pain” tour marks an exciting chapter for Judas Priest as they celebrate the legacy of “Painkiller” while thrilling fans with a unique live experience. With a blend of classic hits and live debuts, the tour promises to be a remarkable journey through the band’s storied history.
FAQs
What is the significance of the “Shield Of Pain” tour?
The “Shield Of Pain” tour celebrates the 35th anniversary of Judas Priest’s iconic album “Painkiller,” featuring a unique setlist that includes several tracks from the album.
When does the tour conclude?
The tour will conclude on July 25, 2025, at the O2 in London, UK.
Will there be any live debuts during the tour?
Yes, the tour features live debuts of songs such as “The Serpent And The King” and “Giants In The Sky.”
Where can I watch the concert footage?
Fan-filmed videos of the concert can be found on YouTube, allowing fans to relive the electrifying performance.
