To mark the 50th anniversary of one of heavy metal's most foundational records, JUDAS PRIEST have announced special reissue editions of 'Sad Wings of Destiny'. Exciter Records and its publishing affiliate Reach Music have acquired the master rights to the album in partnership with the band, and will release newly remixed and remastered versions alongside audiophile-quality vinyl pressings.
Originally released in March 1976, 'Sad Wings of Destiny' was a quantum leap forward for JUDAS PRIEST — a dark, ambitious record that introduced the world to songs like "Victim of Changes," "The Ripper," "Tyrant," and "Dreamer Deceiver." It remains one of the defining albums of British heavy metal and an essential cornerstone of the genre.
The reissue project is being overseen by longtime PRIEST producer Tom Allom, who previously handled the acclaimed 50th anniversary treatment of the band's 1974 debut 'Rocka Rolla'. Working from the original multitrack and master tapes, Allom will ensure the new editions honour the raw power and atmosphere of the original recordings while bringing them to audiophile standards.
Vocalist Rob Halford has previously called 'Sad Wings of Destiny' his personal favourite JUDAS PRIEST album, praising "the riffs, the tempo, the songwriting, and the vocals" as a perfect storm of everything the band could do.
Specific formats, tracklisting of bonus material, and a release date will be announced in the coming months via ExciterRecords.com.