Judas Priest – the metal gods, the pioneers, the definitive classic British heavy metal band – delivered a scorching set at Long Island’s Nassau Coliseum. The band unleashed new tracks from 2018’s Firepower and songs that spanned their 40+ year career.

Frontman Rob Halford belted out his lines in peak form while founding bassist Ian Hill locked in tight with drummer Scott Travis for the 19-song set.

Filling in for legendary guitarist Glenn Tipton (who ceased touring due to Parkinson’s disease) was Grammy winning producer Andy Sneap, appropriately clad in black leather and metal studs, and wielding a Gibson Explorer. Richie Faulkner provided much of the blistering leads during the performance.

Here are some other highlights and general notes on the show:

A couple of times during Priest’s set, the front PA cut out for a brief second. All that was heard, was the noise from the stage. I thought this was pretty cool and badass. The band didn’t miss a beat.

Opening act Black Star Riders, which consists of members of Thin Lizzy, ripped through Lizzy classic “Whiskey in the Jar” in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.

At 67, guitarist Scott Gorham is not showing any sign of slowing down. The band also played Thin Lizzy’s “Jailbreak” early in the set while unleashing mainly BSR tracks from their recent, but mighty catalog.

NWOBHM giants Saxon also provided thunderous support. Lead singer Biff Byford sounded as devastating as ever.

In closing, the concert was obviously amazing. However, it is sad that Long Island as a whole continues to fail at supporting rock and roll. The venue was only about half-full. They did not even open up the 200 section to ticket sales. It’s heart breaking. Hey Long Island, wake the f*ck up and smell the rock!