Underrated Albums [IMO] That People Overlook

Judas Priest goes groove? Yes, with the departure of frontman: Rob Halford and with his replacement, Tim "Ripper" Owens, the band decided to go in a different direction... a heavier direction. It's almost as if Priest wanted to adopt Slayer's sound to a certain extent but still retain their Painkiller sound. It's a bit slower-paced, but heavier on what it seems are more down-tuned guitar riffage, but hey! I love it! I remember hearing their song "Blood Stained" from this album, while watching Bride of Chucky. Not only was it catchy but just reminded me of Slayer so much. Of course, after this album, there was only one more with Tim "Ripper" Owens before Rob came back and they (the band) pretty much disowned this album as well as it's sequel.

Priest would soon just return to a more moderate sound, not too heavy but not too basic either. Their sound nowadays is a mix of the two and I think it fits them the best, but hey, at the time in the 90's, this was a gem that nobody saw coming. I'll defend this album til the day I die.

Heavy riffs, loud aggressive vocals and banging drums... this is the epitome of Slayer, but of course.. for this album, it's a groove-oriented sound. Which, for its time, fits the time-frame, which of course that being part of the "nu metal" and "groove" sound that was so popular at the time, but still somehow retained its heavy thrash roots that Slayer is so well-known for. So, despite the bad rep, I believe it's still a worthy listen and one of Slayer's last (yes, you heard it here) good album before they basically became "another band". Altho, you could argue this album was the catalyst of Slayer's momentum, but even so.. I'd say they still did a damn good job!

Favorite songs on this album? (and that I recommend)
- Death's Hand
- Stain Of Mind
- Love To Hate
- In The Name Of God
- Point

But hey, opinions are opinions.. check it out and see (or hear) for yourself.