The teaming of Judas Priest and Mastodon is a sort of bridging of heavy metal generations. Judas Priest has been an influential force in metal for more than 40 years, defining the prototypical sound of the genre, thanks to singer Rob Halford’s piercing vocals and the twin guitar attack led by Glenn Tipton (now paired with Richie Faulkner). The band racked up hits in the 1980s that went on to become metal classics, including “Breaking the Law,” “Living After Midnight,” “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” and “Hell Bent for Leather.” Halford left for a period in the ’90s and early ’00s, but since his return in 2003, the band has experienced a resurgence, taking their place as metal elder statesmen and touring extensively while also releasing new material (including last year’s Redeemer of Souls).
Mastodon doesn’t have quite the same lengthy history, but since debuting in 2002, the Atlanta band has become one of the most acclaimed acts in metal. The 2004 album Leviathan (based on Moby-Dick) has been cited as one of the best metal albums of the 21st century, and the unique style (bolstered by lead vocals from all four members) has continued to evolve since then. Mastodon’s progressivism offers the perfect counterpoint to Judas Priest’s traditionalism.
The Pearl at Palms, 8 p.m. Oct. 17, starting at $73 plus tax and fee. 702.944.3200
