What does Killing Machine sound like?

High-octane riffs and soaring vocals combine with a gritty, rebellious attitude that defines the essence of late 70s heavy metal. Rooted in heavy metal and traditional heavy metal. Start with "Delivering the Goods".

Is Killing Machine a good place to start with Judas Priest?

Yes, Killing Machine is recommended as a starting point for new Judas Priest listeners. High-octane riffs and soaring vocals combine with a gritty, rebellious attitude that defines the essence of late 70s heavy metal. Killing Machine is Judas Priest's fifth studio album, released in 1979, following the commercial success of Stained Class. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their signature sound and aesthetic, which would later influence the burgeoning heavy metal genre. This album marked a transitional phase as they shifted towards a more polished production style while maintaining their raw energy.

Who is Killing Machine for?

Killing Machine works well if you're into energetic workout motivation, short, punchy listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Killing Machine?

Killing Machine has 11 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Killing Machine

Judas Priest · 1979

38 min · 11 tracks · heavy metal

High-octane riffs and soaring vocals combine with a gritty, rebellious attitude that defines the essence of late 70s heavy metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Delivering the Goods Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its driving rhythm and powerful guitar work, capturing the band's energetic essence.
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Hell Bent for Leather — As one of Judas Priest's most recognizable songs, it showcases their signature leather-and-metal aesthetic while delivering an unforgettable chorus that has become iconic.
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Take On the World — This track combines an uplifting message with catchy melodies, making it a fan favorite and demonstrating the band’s ability to write anthemic songs.
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The Green Manalishi (With the Two-Pronged Crown) — Originally by Fleetwood Mac, this cover reflects Priest's ability to reinterpret classic rock into a heavier sound, showcasing their versatility and creativity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album blends hard rock with heavy metal, showcasing strong riffs and memorable choruses.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature driving tempos and aggressive guitar riffs, establishing a high-energy opening.
Several tracks incorporate a call-and-response vocal style, enhancing the sing-along quality of the choruses.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

energetic workout motivation
short, punchy listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
anthemic sing-along moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified Judas Priest's reputation in heavy metal after 'Stained Class.'
Themes: heavy metal rebellion· midnight motorcycle rides· industrial grit
Career context: Killing Machine is Judas Priest's fifth studio album, released in 1979, following the commercial success of Stained Class. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their signature sound and aesthetic, which would later influence the burgeoning heavy metal genre. This album marked a transitional phase as they shifted towards a more polished production style while maintaining their raw energy.
Stylistic neighbors: Iron Maiden· Black Sabbath· Accept