too much down time makes us miss home.

We knew there were a lot of expectations but we didn't let the pressure get to us. We just had fun with it -- we just do what comes natural and enjoy the ride. We're fortunate to have a great chemistry. When we get together, we get the Judas Priest sound -- that's success.

We're going to maintain our friendship with Ripper. He's a great guy, in fact he sent us an email yesterday, saying he agrees with the decision, you know, because he is a big Priest fan as well, like we all are in a way. He is such an incredible vocalist he is bound to go on to greater success in his own right. Once people know he's free I'm sure he'll be in demand.

There are right and wrong reasons for doing solo projects, and this album was done for the right reasons. At the time there was no Judas Priest and I certainly wasn't going to hang my hat up on my musical career.

Having to play this first one away from home shouldn't really concern us. We're used to playing solid, 60-minute hockey on the road.

And because of the reunion I think we've got more energy and enthusiasm than we've ever had. And it's genuine. I think the fans can detect when you're genuine, when you love what you do, and we love to be there on stage. That's what we thrive on.