Ian Hill Speaks on the State of Judas Priest

Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill weighed in on the band’s current state and future plans in a recent interview with Metal Hammer Germany.

The group, who recently announced their “farewell” Epitaph tour, also lost founding member K.K. Downing. The guitarist cited “an ongoing breakdown in working relationship” for his departure.

“We have done everything to persuade Ken to continue, but he had no more enthusiasm,” Hill explained. The split leaves Hill as the only original member of the band.

The group will move forward with replacement Richie Faulkner.

“He was recommended to us by a common colleague. Those who worry about making that we do not sound like Priest can give you rest. Richie Faulkner is a fabulous guitarist and a perfect replacement for KK Downing. You will miss nothing from the show or the sound.”

As for the Epitaph tour itself, it’s not as much of a farewell as it may seem. “I do not think it will be our last shows,” the bassist explains. “There will be no two-year tours, but we still have a lot of touring ahead of us.”

The group has also announced plans for a new album, with details still in the works.