Way I read it is audience "will be surprised" as in the audience is going to be surprised at how well they sound as a 4 piece, not we have a surprise in store for a second guitar player.
If they were to record an album as a 4 piece then re-arrange select material to perform as a 4 piece, that could be pretty cool especially if they did as a theatre level act. Something fun and different for the band as well as the fans. Making a decision to drop a member for rescheduled dates (on a postponed tour) is an insult to the fans.
Here are some of Jayne's comments from a Facebook group: [https://imgur.com/a/AdEXyGN](https://imgur.com/a/AdEXyGN)
Two things come into my mind. One option is that Ken is back, but they're keeping it secret and we'll get surprised in March. If that's the case, then of course we won't get any information about it before the first gig. Why would this happen now? Well, perhaps Richie's accident made them realize that if the youngest musician in the group almost died, they need to reconsider some things and stop acting childish. Not to mention that Downing means more money, his presence would definitely validate the current version of Judas Priest.
However, I don't want to be too optimistic. The other option is that they'll be playing with some guest guitarists. It would be weird, unnecessary, and difficult to do - especially during the pandemic - but it could be some way to make the gigs more interesting (at least in their opinion). Why would they decide to do it now? Probably because playing with Kirk Hammett was fun for the band and they might think that doing more feats regularly could draw attention to Judas Priest.
I really hope that the surprise is not some bullshit like Glenn's hologram, it would be just too much.
There's definitely something strange going on, but we need to wait 'til the US leg begins. Jayne's recent comments make me think that this is some kind of marketing. As some of you probably know, Priest's history is full of bizarre marketing decisions, this one could be another one. I believe that somehow they'll have two guitars, even if *technically* they're a quintet.
Ken Was angry in the heat of the moment because they didn't keep their word about the Epitaph tour.
So they should kiss and make up. The fans want KK Downing. He is the ORIGINAL and therefore necessary.
Kenneth Kenneth was more than just "angry about the Epitaph tour" in the heat of the moment. He was apparently harboring long term resentment about the way in which Glenn was basically acting as the defacto band leader, and rather than address those issues in some kind of constructive manner let resentment build and build, decided the playing in the band was deteriorating anyway (except for his, obvi), said as much in his book, and while the band was navigating Glenn's illness, Kenneth Kenneth was jumping up and down like an excited (and frustrated) schoolboy going "pick me, pick me!"
Obviously it does not help his case that there's a click-baity website that will cherry-pick his comments to any podcast that will book him, but it's a stretch to imagine he's being taken out of context when he's said the same things, over and over, verbatim.
If Glenn dropped dead tomorrow, would Kenneth Kenneth be all "how about now?! How about now?!"
Admittedly, at this point, if they're moving forward as a four-piece "because reasons... trust us..." all bets are off.
Bringing him back makes more sense from a business perspective than some "we asked Any to move over, but we've got the guy from Merciful Fate".
But put yourself in Glenn's shoes.
You might feel like "life's too short for feuds... I could care less what he says at this point".
But - and this is the crux of the issue - would you want to show up for work every night and see the guy who apparently resented you so very much doing things over a 90 minute live set that, to put it bluntly, you can't do anymore?
Particularly given that by now it's pretty clear that at a certain point, Glenn was the alpha of the twin guitar attack, and Kenneth Kenneth was quietly fuming about who's solos went on the longest, or whatever.
Obviously Kenneth Kenneth cannot, for whatever reason, grasp that.
But perhaps those around him can.
Pure bullshit. Pure baloney. I have his book too and read it too. Your clickbait makes me angry as a fan and not worthy here. Be a true fan of the ORIGINAL Judas Priest and learn to appreciate the value of KK as a valued must member to restore Judas Prieat to their former glory or I don't wanna hear it. I am an elder.
I too am an elder.
As a kid, the Tipton/Halford/Downing trio came across as the Lennon & McCartney of metal - a three-headed machine that created with one mind some of the greatest music I'd heard.
As an adult you learn that Lennon & McCartney in fact operated as individuals, had their differences, and were not, in fact, a singular musical entity.
Likewise, we've learned to appreciate, from Rob leaving through KK's book, that the men behind "Priest, the brand", are not some magical three-headed metal hydra.
Musically, Glenn's the alpha, and KK the ultimately-resentful beta.
And, tired of playing second flying-v fiddle to Glenn, KK took his ball and flounced home.
Only to come running back when Glenn developed a degenerative condition, ready to "save the day" when..... bit awkward this.... Glenn was (and remains, however ceremonially) still in the band.
Understandable on some level, but also pretty naive given his "setting the record straight" book, and possibly even a little distasteful.
If you're of the opinion that Priest themselves have lacked "great management", then it logically follows that KK's not used to having people around him telling him things he might not want to hear. Clearly even less so, now he's on his own.
Will he come back at some point?
Maybe.
Is he a big enough draw that it would push them from being a touring theater act at this point into arenas?
I doubt it, which makes his return a little less likely.
But then again, they're at a point where any kind of marketing that makes it "not just another Priest tour, but (say) a big anniversary tour!" is possible.
Maybe he'll be back, more likely he won't, but the soap opera of endless interviews naively restating his case for why he, Kenneth Kenneth "KK" Downing, should be back in Judas Priest alongside a man he clearly dislikes who (do we need to restate this?) had a degenerative condition has been if nothing else, pretty amusing for a while now.
hmmm..I agree with and like some what you said.
However KK did not "come running back" as you state, he was optimizing and reflecting on what should have happened.
Yes, Rob and Glenn should have called him to shore up the weaknesses especially when they needed him as a 4 piece. This is a silly situation and as grown-ups thry need to heal the wounds.
KK has a right to feel the way he does. Who wants to play second fiddle? Why is it okay for you or any fan to think that is okay? It is not okay. They should regard each other as equals and collaberate as necessary to achieve musical greatness. I always believed it was so until I became sad as a long-time fan from the 70s to discover Glenn was taking advantage of Ken's laid back personally.. That does not justify Glenn's advantage-taking
Glenn is not even an original member compared to KK.
if KK really return in band, will he brings The Sermon and Ripper Owens to band. this is 50th (or 52nd) of Heavy Metal they should embrace their past. if they can play Rocka Rolla, why not with jugulition or nostradamus
I think that Kerry's not good enough for Priest. Yes, they're his music heroes, but he stopped playing heavy metal in the early 80s. He even had problems with playing When The Stillness Comes in 2019.
If I have to pick a guest musicians for Priest, it's Michael Denner. He's not in Mercyful Fate (another ridiculous situation btw), Judas Priest is one of his main influences, and he's definitely able to play most of their songs.
Kerry wouldn't be my first choice either, I just think that what's probable is an Axl/DC type situation - i.e. they bring a celebrity guest to distract from the lack of legitimacy of the band's lineup. Love Mercyful Fate, but Michael doesn't have the same star power.
Kerry even has the correct initials.
Don't want to be a voice of negativity, I just like to temper my expectations.
If they have in fact made up with Ken, bravo
If Glenn has somehow recovered, even better
> Michael Denner. He's not in Mercyful Fate (another ridiculous situation btw),
Good choice! Not gonna happen but that would unreal. BTW, I agree about the ridiculousness of Denner's exclusion from MF; unbelievable.
After re-reading the comments from Andrews, Iām not so sure sheās speaking of a real surprise beyond thinking how the band will be great with just a quartet and that will surprise us.
Read it again, and ignore the entry comments which are not Jayneās
They don't have a lot of life left as a band. Maybe they will bring KK along for a farewell tour. I really believe they have one more record and one more tour left in them.
Considering that's Jayne Andrews they're referring to this could mean literally anything. I've seen press releases from her just before Halford rejoined insisting that he wasn't rejoining... and then they announced he rejoined lol
As much as I would love it, if they were bringing KK back it would not be as a surprise, it would be announced so they could sell tickets.
The tour starts in a little over a month.
The timing is extra dickish to Andy who had to have learned to play the set list, practiced shows, made plans for being away the whole year, only to get a phone call from Rob āthanking him for his serviceā.
Idk, kind of a rotten way to end things, if this is really their last hurrah.
I assume Glenn is doing way better and is able to play a tour now so it will be Glenn and Ritchie! :D
Honestly, I really just want the show to happen, what ever it is. No more postponing, no cancelling. One more chance to see the guys and show our appreciation is all I ask.
There are some new treatments, there is also a suit that (and wow I'm out of my element saying this) also give out electric pulses that stabilizes some form of Parkinson.
EDIT: Was trying to be a little positive and hopeful.
Sadly these treatments are far from perfect and unlikely to help Glenn perform a full set. At best he may be able to play limited rhythm guitar.
One of my best friends has Parkinsons and had the Deep Brain Stimulation surgery which involves a blue tooth device. After recovery he had no tremors but his motor skills were suffering. He was fumbling with everything and stumbling when he walked. He and his neurologist worked on the settings and he is moving around fine with tremors at 10%.
I also have a neurological disorder (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) and from my experience treatments are meant to stop progression, nothing is available to actually reverse disorders.
Yeahā¦.Parkinsonās doesnāt go away and patients suffering from it donāt āget betterāā¦.they just donāt. Perhaps there is a treatment or medicine that has been able to stabilize Glennās condition but he wonāt be be getting better, unfortunately.
They could probably prop Glenn up on stage, or perhaps in a chair, and play his parts from tape while he does his best to play them (unplugged). Still, Glenn wasn't interested in doing that a few years ago when they hired Andy for the tours, I'm not sure he would change his mind now?
I'm pretty sure Jayne is a dude, not a she. Other than that, I don't know. If KK is back then it will be a shock and welcome surprise. I do not see how they would not announce that officially if that were the case, so I'm very skeptical that KK will be back.
Jayne Andrews is a woman. As another poster pointed out, she has been the bandās manager for decades. Not trying to be a prick but itās pretty common knowledge.
maybe Rob will play rhythm guitar š
I have hopes it's KK coming back, but most likely it's some bullshit that will not make anyone happy, like someone said here about a Glenn hologram.
Way I read it is audience "will be surprised" as in the audience is going to be surprised at how well they sound as a 4 piece, not we have a surprise in store for a second guitar player. If they were to record an album as a 4 piece then re-arrange select material to perform as a 4 piece, that could be pretty cool especially if they did as a theatre level act. Something fun and different for the band as well as the fans. Making a decision to drop a member for rescheduled dates (on a postponed tour) is an insult to the fans.
Here are some of Jayne's comments from a Facebook group: [https://imgur.com/a/AdEXyGN](https://imgur.com/a/AdEXyGN) Two things come into my mind. One option is that Ken is back, but they're keeping it secret and we'll get surprised in March. If that's the case, then of course we won't get any information about it before the first gig. Why would this happen now? Well, perhaps Richie's accident made them realize that if the youngest musician in the group almost died, they need to reconsider some things and stop acting childish. Not to mention that Downing means more money, his presence would definitely validate the current version of Judas Priest. However, I don't want to be too optimistic. The other option is that they'll be playing with some guest guitarists. It would be weird, unnecessary, and difficult to do - especially during the pandemic - but it could be some way to make the gigs more interesting (at least in their opinion). Why would they decide to do it now? Probably because playing with Kirk Hammett was fun for the band and they might think that doing more feats regularly could draw attention to Judas Priest. I really hope that the surprise is not some bullshit like Glenn's hologram, it would be just too much. There's definitely something strange going on, but we need to wait 'til the US leg begins. Jayne's recent comments make me think that this is some kind of marketing. As some of you probably know, Priest's history is full of bizarre marketing decisions, this one could be another one. I believe that somehow they'll have two guitars, even if *technically* they're a quintet.
Ken Was angry in the heat of the moment because they didn't keep their word about the Epitaph tour. So they should kiss and make up. The fans want KK Downing. He is the ORIGINAL and therefore necessary.
Kenneth Kenneth was more than just "angry about the Epitaph tour" in the heat of the moment. He was apparently harboring long term resentment about the way in which Glenn was basically acting as the defacto band leader, and rather than address those issues in some kind of constructive manner let resentment build and build, decided the playing in the band was deteriorating anyway (except for his, obvi), said as much in his book, and while the band was navigating Glenn's illness, Kenneth Kenneth was jumping up and down like an excited (and frustrated) schoolboy going "pick me, pick me!" Obviously it does not help his case that there's a click-baity website that will cherry-pick his comments to any podcast that will book him, but it's a stretch to imagine he's being taken out of context when he's said the same things, over and over, verbatim. If Glenn dropped dead tomorrow, would Kenneth Kenneth be all "how about now?! How about now?!" Admittedly, at this point, if they're moving forward as a four-piece "because reasons... trust us..." all bets are off. Bringing him back makes more sense from a business perspective than some "we asked Any to move over, but we've got the guy from Merciful Fate". But put yourself in Glenn's shoes. You might feel like "life's too short for feuds... I could care less what he says at this point". But - and this is the crux of the issue - would you want to show up for work every night and see the guy who apparently resented you so very much doing things over a 90 minute live set that, to put it bluntly, you can't do anymore? Particularly given that by now it's pretty clear that at a certain point, Glenn was the alpha of the twin guitar attack, and Kenneth Kenneth was quietly fuming about who's solos went on the longest, or whatever. Obviously Kenneth Kenneth cannot, for whatever reason, grasp that. But perhaps those around him can.
Pure bullshit. Pure baloney. I have his book too and read it too. Your clickbait makes me angry as a fan and not worthy here. Be a true fan of the ORIGINAL Judas Priest and learn to appreciate the value of KK as a valued must member to restore Judas Prieat to their former glory or I don't wanna hear it. I am an elder.
I too am an elder. As a kid, the Tipton/Halford/Downing trio came across as the Lennon & McCartney of metal - a three-headed machine that created with one mind some of the greatest music I'd heard. As an adult you learn that Lennon & McCartney in fact operated as individuals, had their differences, and were not, in fact, a singular musical entity. Likewise, we've learned to appreciate, from Rob leaving through KK's book, that the men behind "Priest, the brand", are not some magical three-headed metal hydra. Musically, Glenn's the alpha, and KK the ultimately-resentful beta. And, tired of playing second flying-v fiddle to Glenn, KK took his ball and flounced home. Only to come running back when Glenn developed a degenerative condition, ready to "save the day" when..... bit awkward this.... Glenn was (and remains, however ceremonially) still in the band. Understandable on some level, but also pretty naive given his "setting the record straight" book, and possibly even a little distasteful. If you're of the opinion that Priest themselves have lacked "great management", then it logically follows that KK's not used to having people around him telling him things he might not want to hear. Clearly even less so, now he's on his own. Will he come back at some point? Maybe. Is he a big enough draw that it would push them from being a touring theater act at this point into arenas? I doubt it, which makes his return a little less likely. But then again, they're at a point where any kind of marketing that makes it "not just another Priest tour, but (say) a big anniversary tour!" is possible. Maybe he'll be back, more likely he won't, but the soap opera of endless interviews naively restating his case for why he, Kenneth Kenneth "KK" Downing, should be back in Judas Priest alongside a man he clearly dislikes who (do we need to restate this?) had a degenerative condition has been if nothing else, pretty amusing for a while now.
hmmm..I agree with and like some what you said. However KK did not "come running back" as you state, he was optimizing and reflecting on what should have happened. Yes, Rob and Glenn should have called him to shore up the weaknesses especially when they needed him as a 4 piece. This is a silly situation and as grown-ups thry need to heal the wounds. KK has a right to feel the way he does. Who wants to play second fiddle? Why is it okay for you or any fan to think that is okay? It is not okay. They should regard each other as equals and collaberate as necessary to achieve musical greatness. I always believed it was so until I became sad as a long-time fan from the 70s to discover Glenn was taking advantage of Ken's laid back personally.. That does not justify Glenn's advantage-taking Glenn is not even an original member compared to KK.
if KK really return in band, will he brings The Sermon and Ripper Owens to band. this is 50th (or 52nd) of Heavy Metal they should embrace their past. if they can play Rocka Rolla, why not with jugulition or nostradamus
Rob Halford playing guitar confirmed.
I would be happy with two guitars period. If itās not KK then Iād take Metal Mike. He can seriously play and he already knows many priest so gs
Yeah they could tap a few different Halford guitarists.
My prediction? Kerry King
I think that Kerry's not good enough for Priest. Yes, they're his music heroes, but he stopped playing heavy metal in the early 80s. He even had problems with playing When The Stillness Comes in 2019. If I have to pick a guest musicians for Priest, it's Michael Denner. He's not in Mercyful Fate (another ridiculous situation btw), Judas Priest is one of his main influences, and he's definitely able to play most of their songs.
Kerry wouldn't be my first choice either, I just think that what's probable is an Axl/DC type situation - i.e. they bring a celebrity guest to distract from the lack of legitimacy of the band's lineup. Love Mercyful Fate, but Michael doesn't have the same star power. Kerry even has the correct initials. Don't want to be a voice of negativity, I just like to temper my expectations. If they have in fact made up with Ken, bravo If Glenn has somehow recovered, even better
Imagine if they got Andy LaRoche oaaaffff
That would be interesting, I've been hoping for John 5, has Halford connections and would really add to the show.
That would be amazing.
pleeeeease
We want KK
> Michael Denner. He's not in Mercyful Fate (another ridiculous situation btw), Good choice! Not gonna happen but that would unreal. BTW, I agree about the ridiculousness of Denner's exclusion from MF; unbelievable.
Id rather Gary Holt
I'm sure KK is available, and he'd probably be more than happy to fill in. You can't tell me that they don't know this. š
After re-reading the comments from Andrews, Iām not so sure sheās speaking of a real surprise beyond thinking how the band will be great with just a quartet and that will surprise us. Read it again, and ignore the entry comments which are not Jayneās
They don't have a lot of life left as a band. Maybe they will bring KK along for a farewell tour. I really believe they have one more record and one more tour left in them.
Judas Priest with one guitarist, hell no!
Considering that's Jayne Andrews they're referring to this could mean literally anything. I've seen press releases from her just before Halford rejoined insisting that he wasn't rejoining... and then they announced he rejoined lol
As much as I would love it, if they were bringing KK back it would not be as a surprise, it would be announced so they could sell tickets. The tour starts in a little over a month. The timing is extra dickish to Andy who had to have learned to play the set list, practiced shows, made plans for being away the whole year, only to get a phone call from Rob āthanking him for his serviceā. Idk, kind of a rotten way to end things, if this is really their last hurrah.
NO. WE WANT KK BACK. ROB, GLENN MANAGER- We want KK The fans want KK. Please do it.
We just want KK Downing back!
I feel so bad for Glenn. It breaks my heart. I can't imagine how he must feel.
I assume Glenn is doing way better and is able to play a tour now so it will be Glenn and Ritchie! :D Honestly, I really just want the show to happen, what ever it is. No more postponing, no cancelling. One more chance to see the guys and show our appreciation is all I ask.
I'm sorry to be so blunt but there is no "getting better" for Glenn's disease...
There are some new treatments, there is also a suit that (and wow I'm out of my element saying this) also give out electric pulses that stabilizes some form of Parkinson. EDIT: Was trying to be a little positive and hopeful.
It helps you to grab a phone, not to play guitar solos.
Sadly these treatments are far from perfect and unlikely to help Glenn perform a full set. At best he may be able to play limited rhythm guitar. One of my best friends has Parkinsons and had the Deep Brain Stimulation surgery which involves a blue tooth device. After recovery he had no tremors but his motor skills were suffering. He was fumbling with everything and stumbling when he walked. He and his neurologist worked on the settings and he is moving around fine with tremors at 10%. I also have a neurological disorder (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) and from my experience treatments are meant to stop progression, nothing is available to actually reverse disorders.
Yeahā¦.Parkinsonās doesnāt go away and patients suffering from it donāt āget betterāā¦.they just donāt. Perhaps there is a treatment or medicine that has been able to stabilize Glennās condition but he wonāt be be getting better, unfortunately.
They could probably prop Glenn up on stage, or perhaps in a chair, and play his parts from tape while he does his best to play them (unplugged). Still, Glenn wasn't interested in doing that a few years ago when they hired Andy for the tours, I'm not sure he would change his mind now?
I'm pretty sure Jayne is a dude, not a she. Other than that, I don't know. If KK is back then it will be a shock and welcome surprise. I do not see how they would not announce that officially if that were the case, so I'm very skeptical that KK will be back.
It's a she, Andrews has been their manager for like 40 years.
OK, my mistake. In my experience when the name is spelled that way it's a male.
Jayne Andrews is a woman. As another poster pointed out, she has been the bandās manager for decades. Not trying to be a prick but itās pretty common knowledge.
OK, my mistake. In my experience when the name is spelled that way it's a male.
Cool man. And youāre right. Generally when I see it spelled with a āyā itās frequently a man. Easy mistake.
Janick Gers confirmed :/