Judas Beast Priest Tribute Biography

BIOGRAPHY

Judas Beast was formed in March 2006, by original drummer Gary Unsworth and original vocalist Glenn S Howes.

The band of Glenn, Gary, Mark Unsworth, Billy and Barry really gelled musically, and otherwise, straight away and it felt very solid within only a couple of weeks. After deciding on the band's name, the band gruelled the intense 2006 summer heat(!) learning and rehearsing many Priest classics.

Such was the excitement for all in the project that the band soon decided they would aim to give audiences the full Priest vibe at gigs, as to stage presentation and image, which adds an element of good humoured entertainment. That said, as to the most important factor, Judas Priest's music and its accurate reproduction, the band take things very seriously.

Unfortunately in October 2006, on the cusp of the initial batch of gigs, Glenn Howes left the band. The band then happened upon Martin McManus who introduced himself to the band at the first gig following Glenn's departure (where the band appeared as a four-piece). After initially jamming with the band on stage during an 'open mike' spot, a couple of formal auditions later, Martin was asked to join the band, and enthusiastically accepted.

After a few months' rehearsals, Martin quickly adapted and fitted in with the band perfectly. With his awesome vocal range, showmanship and uncanny knack to reproduce Rob Halford's repertoire, the band set out on the road.

2007 was a great year for the band, receiving raving reviews and comments from many true Priest fans, who said that the band's shows brought back fond memories of seeing Priest after witnessing 'the Beast' in action.

At the end of August 2007, Gary left the band because of personal commitments which unfortunately halted the bands shows immediateley, for the remainder of 2007.

The band found a new drummer In the form of the very talented Kev Alderson, who had just left Metallica tribute band Damaged Inc. Since March 2008 Guy Laverick who also juggles his time as a member of NWOBHM legends, Blitzkrieg, is the band's new KK and more solid national giging in 2008 continues!

Finding a vocalist who can match Rob Halford's amazing range, power and vocal style is never easy, however Martin can comfortably handle the most demanding of Halford's vocals.

Guitarists Barry and Guy faithfully reproduce not only the duelling and complementary riffs and licks of Tipton and Downing, but have honed their respective guitar tones for that true Priest feel.

The awesome rhythm section of Billy and Kev work brilliantly together as the backbone of the band's crushing sound.

If you love Judas Priest's music, you are guaranteed a great night out!