Rating: 3/5
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Mind over Metal Limerick 37

It took a damned month, but I finally gathered my thoughts on the 30th Anniversary Ozzy reissues. They still feel kinda scattered, but here nonetheless.

Judas Priest – “A Touch Of Evil” released July 14, 2009 on Epic Records The Metal Gods present their first live offering since reuniting with Rob Halford, and it’s the best since Unleashed In The East. Comprised of a breadth of songs spanning thirty years of their career, seven albums are represented, with all but two tracks (6, 11) making their first appearances on a live Priest release. The selections are from their 2005 & 2008 world tours, and they’re very particular about including the strongest performances, with minimum crowd noise. The focus is well-kept on this ageless band, [...read more]

Lamb of God – “Wrath” released February 24, 2009 by Epic Records Eyebrows raise when bands like LoG debut at #2 on Billboard and push 68k units in its first week. Have they toned things down, cushioned their delivery? The opening instrumental red herring is a sly jab in the ribs to skeptics and fans alike (6 & 11 have mellow beginnings as well). Pantera’s heir apparents walk the same path as their forebears, amplifying aggression while never losing grasp of visceral grooves. Randy Blythe’s vocals are as acerbic as ever, but he exercises control and explores a wider [...read more]