WSOU Picks of the Week: Judas Priest, Machine Head, Lightning Rules
Seton Hall University’s WSOU radio is the only all-metal, all-the-time station currently broadcasting in the US, and has been a force in metal for DECADES. It’s also streamable online from anywhere in the world! Each week, the staff of WSOU shares their picks for the heaviest of the heavy, as well as the station’s charts for that week, right here on MetalSucks. Enjoy:
Judas Priest – “Lightning Strike” (Katie W.)
Four years later and the monster metal machine that is Judas Priest has done it again. Forget about lightning, Priest struck gold with their newest single, “Lightning Strike,” off of their highly anticipated album release, Firepower. In fierce harmony, the song combines everything a classic Screaming for Vengeance-era song might have — killer and purposeful lyrics mixed with the hardest of head-banging choruses. Richie Faulkner has found his niche with an onslaught of fiery chords, and Scott Travis’ display of heavier blast beats and pronounced cymbals match the intensity of Halford’s subtle-yet-powerful and piercing vocal presence. Highly anticipated — rightfully so. We are anxiously awaiting the next release.
Machine Head – “Volatile” (Dylan G.)
Catharsis dropped today and it seems to be one of the most controversial Machine Head album to date. A lot of fans were holding their breath for the release after hearing the Dropkick-Murphys-esque “Bastards,” and I was definitely one of them. Now that I’ve heard the whole thing, their approach to recording this album like a mix tape really shines through. “Volatile “is a highlight off the album, but I can’t say yet which songs of this album will be this album’s legacy. “Triple Beam” is lyrically my favorite, but there are some wildcard tracks like “Razorblade Smile” that make you cock your head to the side and ask “Why?”
Lightning Rules – “Fossil Fuels” (Nick E.)
The title track off of Lightning Rules’ second EP, and the first single released, starts off hot and never quite slows down. From the opening guitar to the final note, it’s hard to keep yourself still. The driving up and down riff throughout the track couple’s with a heavy beat to create an awesome track. Throw in a chorus that makes you want to get up and chant along, and there isn’t much missing from “Fossil Fuels.”
