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Judas Priest takes on 'Nostradamus'
AP
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More from MusicAfter working on the project for more than two years, Judas Priest will finally unveil its 16th studio CD, "Nostradamus," on June 17. A double-disc set that tells the story of the 16th-century prophet Michel de Nostredame (whose name is often "Latinized" as Nostradamus), the release is Priest's first concept album, and was recorded throughout 2006 and 2007 at Old Smithy Studio in the United Kingdom.
"Making Nostradamus' was a new experience for us in Judas Priest, insomuch as this was going to be a conceptual writing and recording event," said Priest singer Rob Halford, pictured. "His life is well-documented, so for us, it was all about taking the significant episodes he went through, and then with the right emotion, create music and lyrics that would convey them."
On the album, Halford, guitarists K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton, bassist Ian Hill and drummer Scott Travis spread their stylistic wings, experimenting with symphonic orchestration and choirs.
Three configurations of "Nostradamus" will be issued. The most common will be a regular jewel-cased double CD, but there will also be a "CD deluxe hardbound version," which features a 48-page booklet, while a "super deluxe version" will include three vinyl records (in addition to the CD deluxe packaging, plus a poster).
Judas Priest will lead the bill for the first Metal Masters Tour this summer, which will also feature Heaven & Hell, Motorhead and Testament. The Live Nation-sponsored tour will stop Aug. 30 at Glen Helen Pavilion in Devore. Pre-sale tickets are available now; the public on-sale date is May 10.
"We insisted on a classic metal package, which is what we've got — I will enjoy seeing all the bands," Halford said.
— Billboard
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