Fozzy On Fire Thanks To Judas

Metal purveyors Fozzy go for the throat on "Judas". It's a cut just as hot as Atlanta in mid-summer. I reference the city because that's where this fivesome hails from. Lead vocalist Chris Jericho demonstrates how to belt out words without losing a sense of muscle control. His mates don't know the meaning behind the concept of power shortage. Rich Ward explodes on guitar with the conviction of a man who knows longevity in metal careers doesn't even come close to being a sure thing unless your name is Robert Plant or Jimmy Page. Frank Fontsere throws in those drum theatrics that make die hard metal lovers salivate. On bass Paul Di Leo puts pedal to this metal in grand style. The vigor level behind "Judas" ensures that it isn't some throwaway track that will melt in the hot Georgia sun by late August. Chris shows plenty of demonstrative gestures in the video. I sense the tempo was deliberately herky jerky to shine light on what potential humor value there was to be gained. Lyrically Chris has some major self esteem issues as can be proven from "I am cold like December snow. I have carved out this soul made of stone and I will drag you down and sell you out. Chris gets even more in the self loathing vein via "Embraced by the darkness, I'm losing the fight. Encircled by demons, I fight." Chris fears what he's turning into and isn't shy about sharing his conflicted nature. I'm floored in a good way by how raw "Judas" sounds. The nerves rubbed raw are in evidence everywhere and that conflict translates into a really tight sound. All of you metal purists can rest easy. Lots of guitar solo showoff action. In all honesty that's my favorite part of the song. Metal music was never meant to be tethered to the front porch barking at passing cars. Give me four on the floor gut level release any day of the week. "Judas" fills the bill perfectly. The aggressiveness of the band's playing as a whole makes "Judas" a pleasure to make time for. The battle of Jericho being fought here proves successful on as many levels as you can name.