"Live Vengeance '82" isn't new to DVD. It was originally included as part of Judas Priest's 5-disc boxed set, "Metology." And (a long, long time ago), it was available as "Judas Priest Live" on VHS. Though this release is probably redundant to die hard Priest fanatics, it serves nicely as a nostalgic souvenir for those of us who grew up on them.

If nothing else, Judas Priest are the heavy metal models of unwavering consistency. This is the third (and oldest) JP concert video I've reviewed for DVD Corner, recorded during the tour supporting the "Screaming For Vengeance" album (when they were at the height of their popularity), and excepting some minor differences in the set lists, it's nearly the same show previously included in the "Electric Eye" DVD a few years back, and even the recent "Rising in the East" disc. Different points in their career, perhaps, but why screw with a formula that works? Musically, Priest rarely deviate from the original arrangements, the songs sounding nearly identical to their studio counterparts. They've always been a pretty visual band, and this tour more-or-less marks the beginning of when the spectacle of their stage shows increased each year. Of course, they play all their hits and standards: "Breaking the Law," "Living after Midnight," "Hell Bent for Leather," etc. Priest were always about delivering exactly what you'd expect, with rarely a deviation, and this concert is no exception. I suppose there's some added novelty of once again catching these guys when they were still young, back when Rob's appearance was more blatantly S&M (and we all thought that was more of a biker thing than a gay thing) and he could still hit all the high notes. But really, a disc like this is mainly for completists who may not have invested in "Metology." I think most casual fans are better off with "Rising in the East," since it looks & sounds better.

"Live Vengeance '82" is a pretty decent disc, featuring a young metal band in their prime. It's highly recommended for Priest fans who haven't picked up "Metology," or anyone with fond memories of this era. But the crappy picture leaves a little to be desired, and if you're a casual fan and already own a Priest concert on disc, you could probably get by without this one.