VINTAGE PHOTO: Judas Priest

When someone thinks of Judas Priest, they probably think of the Metal God, Rob Halford. But the early years of Judas Priest were more hippy-dippy than heavy metal. And, of course, without any Halford.

The photo is from the 1972-73 years. It’s line-up: well, you can probably recognize bassist Ian Hill and guitarist K.K. Downing on the left. But the others are drummer (complete with afro) Chris “Congo” Campbell and vocalist Al Atkins.

I wonder what “Congo” is doing now, and if he still sporting that fantastic afro.

And, poor Al Atkins looks like he would rather be somewhere else, like the pub for a pint… and judging by his departure soon after this “photo session” that sort of thing was probably on his mind.

Related links: powerlinead.wordpress.com/2009/02/25/vocalist-al-atkins-to-take-credit-for-the-founding-of-judas-priest/