American band releases cover of Judas Priest song before upcoming album launch
Virginia-based hardcore punk group U.S. Bastards recently unveiled their rendition of the iconic Judas Priest track “Heading Out to the Highway” as a teaser for their forthcoming album, Negligent Discharge, slated for release on June 19. Led by ex-GWAR guitarist Brent Purgason, the band infuses a punk rock twist into the 1981 classic, paying homage to one of their primary influences. Purgason expressed their punk rock roots by stating, “We are a punk rock band at our core and we wanted to rock one of our favorite songs, by none other than Judas Priest.” He added humorously, “Plus, if Rob Halford can listen to it and text me a thumbs up emoji, I can die a happy man.”
The cover of “Heading Out to the Highway” is a highlight of Negligent Discharge, marking the return of U.S. Bastards after a prolonged hiatus. This album boasts 13 tracks, including additional cover songs by Judas Priest and Motörhead. Renowned for their straightforward fusion of hardcore punk and high-energy rock ‘n’ roll, U.S. Bastards have regrouped and are gearing up to deliver a fresh set of loud, speedy, and unapologetic anthems.
Fans can catch U.S. Bastards live in Richmond, VA, on August 14 at the Richmond Music Hall, alongside X-Cops and Belushi Speed Ball. Negligent Discharge will hit the shelves on June 19, brimming with the band’s trademark intensity and raw energy.
The accompanying promotional photo for the release captures the essence of the band’s gritty aesthetic, reflecting the rebellious spirit embodied in their music. U.S. Bastards’ remake of “Heading Out to the Highway” is a testament to their diverse influences and ability to inject their own punk rock flair into timeless classics.
As U.S. Bastards gear up for the release of Negligent Discharge, their return to the spotlight promises a reinvigorated presence in the hardcore punk scene. With an album packed full of fierce tracks and a nostalgic tribute to legends like Judas Priest and Motörhead, U.S. Bastards are poised to captivate audiences with their fearless and unapologetic approach to music. Stay tuned for the arrival of Negligent Discharge on June 19, and brace yourself for an adrenaline-fueled journey through the unapologetic soundscape of U.S. Bastards.