Exciter Records is proud to announce the release of Judas Priest’s Sad Wings of Destiny (Original 1976 Masters), a newly restored 50th Anniversary archival edition that will make its debut in CD format exclusively at merchandise stands during Judas Priest’s FAITHKEEPERS Summer European Tour.
Created to celebrate one of heavy metal’s most influential and enduring albums, this landmark restoration returns to the original 1976 analogue stereo master tapes to present the album’s original mixes with exceptional fidelity and clarity while preserving the sound, dynamics, and character that established Sad Wings of Destiny as a cornerstone of heavy metal history.
The restoration project began with the careful preservation and high-resolution transfer of the original analogue master tapes at British Grove Studios in London under the supervision of Tom Allom and Luie Stylianou. The newly restored audio was then mastered by Grammy Award-winning engineer Matt Colton at Metropolis Studios in London, preserving the spirit and integrity of the original recordings.
This anniversary edition also restores the band’s intended running order, opening with “Prelude” and allowing listeners to experience the album as it was originally conceived in 1976.
“There have been numerous releases and reissues over the decades by different companies in different territories,” said Michael Closter, Founder of Exciter Records. “When Exciter Records acquired the original analogue master tapes, we were presented with a rare opportunity to return directly to the source. By carefully restoring the tapes, preserving them digitally for future generations, and creating a new master from those original recordings, we believe we have created the most faithful presentation of the original Sad Wings of Destiny.”
Premiering during the FAITHKEEPERS Summer European Tour, this tour-exclusive CD marks the opening chapter of Exciter Records’ 50th anniversary celebration of Sad Wings of Destiny. Additional projects and archival releases are planned throughout the commemorative campaign, further exploring the legacy and evolution of one of heavy metal’s most important recordings.
Sad Wings of Destiny (Original 1976 Masters) –
FAITHKEEPERS SUMMER TOUR CD TRACKLIST:
Prelude
Tyrant
Genocide
Epitaph
Island of Domination
Victim of Changes
The Ripper
Dreamer Deceiver
Deceiver
For more information, visit ExciterRecords.com
