Turbo

Turbo is the tenth album on which Judas Priest, while keeping the bite of its usual twin guitars, boldly takes in a bright texture using synthesizer guitars and big hooks. Rob Halford’s singing is as powerful as ever, but the phrases of Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing greatly push a 1980s flair into the songs. A talked-about work showing the band’s bold change of direction. From the driving melody of the opener “Turbo Lover” and the dramatic expanse of “Out in the Cold” to the catchiness of “Locked In” and the playfulness of “Parental Guidance,” the songs are full of a melodic, open appeal, while a cut like “Reckless” gives the album breadth. Including its experimental production, which drew strongly mixed views, it is an essential record for understanding Judas Priest’s expressive breadth. Fans seeking the former heavy image may be surprised, but that pop, flashy sense gives off an appeal particular to this period. Inscribing the stance of a band that did not fear change, it is an intriguing 1980s work.