Classic Albums – British Steel (Judas Priest)

A Guitarist’s Analysis of “British Steel” by Judas Priest
The 1980 album which changed the face of heavy metal as we know it; ‘British Steel’ is the perfect mix of interlocking twin guitar parts, melodic metal anthems and scorching displays of guitar prowess. With 3 previous album releases under their belt; we are joining Judas Priest at the pivotal point in their career and a rare chance to dig deep into the guitar riffs, solos and songs which saw a turning point for metal guitar; kick-starting the 80’s with some of the best playing of the decade.
Lead guitarist Glenn Tipton’s influential musicianship is showcased across this pivotal album, setting a standard for the heavy metal genre. His innovative and aggressive style contributed to Judas Priest’s distinctive sound, incorporating a fusion of blues-inspired licks, aggressive power chords, and intricate solos with lightning-fast legato runs and pinched harmonics.
In this Classic Album guitar course, world renowned tutor Danny Gill guides you through the guitar highlights from this seminal metal album, one timeless riff and unforgettable solo at a time; including fan favourites: ‘Living After Midnight, ‘Rapid Fire and their best-loved metal anthem ‘Breaking The Law’.

Guitar Lessons In This Course
• Breaking The Law
• Rapid Fire
• Metal Gods
• Grinder
• United
• Living After Midnight
• You Don’t Have To Be Old To Be Wise
• The Rage
• Steeler

Guitar Lesson 1: “Breaking the Law”
A classic heavy metal anthem that features a major pentatonic riff in E, giving it a slightly bluesy feel. Tipton’s solo, however, utilizes the E minor pentatonic scale, featuring a mixture of bends and vibrato, displaying the emotional depth he can achieve even within the confines of a straightforward rock song.

Guitar Lesson 2: “Rapid Fire”
A showcase of galloping rhythms and power chords, this track is a study in aggressive, driving rhythm guitar work. The solos, both performed by Tipton, use the E minor scale and are filled with fast alternate picking runs, lending the track a frenetic, intense quality.

Guitar Lesson 3: “Metal Gods”
A mid-tempo stomper featuring the utilization of palm muting in the verses to create a chunky, chugging rhythm. The solo is a masterclass in tasteful melodic playing, with Tipton using the E minor pentatonic scale to create a memorable, hook-laden lead part.

Guitar Lesson 4: “Grinder”
This track is a hard-driving rock song with a focus on power chords and syncopated rhythms. The solo section, set in E minor pentatonic, is a showcase for Tipton’s impeccable alternate picking technique.

Guitar Lesson 5: “United”
A great demonstration of Tipton’s knack for crafting memorable riffs. The A minor riff is simple yet effective, and the solos are a mix of tasteful licks and lightning-fast runs, utilizing both alternate picking and legato techniques.

Guitar Lesson 6: “Living After Midnight”
The album’s most famous track, built around a catchy riff in A major. The solo is a mix of tasteful string bending and fast runs in the A major pentatonic scale, showing off Tipton’s technical prowess and melodic sensibility.

Guitar Lesson 7: “You Don’t Have to Be Old to Be Wise”
An often overlooked gem, it features some clever chord progressions and an infectious main riff in A minor. The solos are filled with vibrato, fast runs, and the occasional pinch harmonic, adding some color to the composition.

Guitar Lesson 8: “The Rage”
A dark, brooding song with a clean arpeggiated intro in C minor, which showcases Tipton’s versatility. The solo, using the C minor pentatonic scale, is filled with emotional bends and quick alternate picking runs.

Guitar Lesson 9: “Steeler”
A fast and furious track that features palm-muted power chords and syncopated rhythms, making for an intense listening experience. Tipton’s solos are both fast and intricate, filled with quick legato runs, alternate picking, and aggressive bends.
The Techniques of “British Steel”

Guitar Techniques Used in the Album
• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Chord Progressions
• Syncopated Rhythms
• String Bending

“British Steel” remains a cornerstone of heavy metal guitar playing, due in no small part to Glenn Tipton’s innovative style and technique. It’s a masterclass in riff writing, solos, and heavy metal guitar playing that continues to inspire guitarists today.