JUDAS PRIEST guitarist Richie Faulkner has revealed that his side project ELEGANT WEAPONS was born partly out of awareness that PRIEST will not be around forever. Speaking on the Talk Louder podcast, Faulkner was candid about planning for his post-PRIEST future: "It's always been in my mind that they're not gonna be around forever," he admitted, referring to the band's 50-plus years of heavy metal history.
Rather than treating ELEGANT WEAPONS as a temporary side venture, Faulkner is committed to building it into a legitimate, long-running band. He expressed pride in reaching a second album and hopes to grow the project the way classic acts like BLACK SABBATH and IRON MAIDEN established their legacies over time.
The guitarist also addressed the challenges of the modern music industry, citing rising touring costs and stagnant wages for musicians, while maintaining that passion for songwriting remains the driving force.
ELEGANT WEAPONS' sophomore album "Evolution" is set for release on April 24 via Exciter Records. The band features vocalist Ronnie Romero — known for his work with RAINBOW and LORDS OF BLACK — alongside bassist Dave Rimmer and drummer Christopher Williams.
Faulkner joined JUDAS PRIEST in 2011, replacing founding guitarist K.K. Downing, and has since become an integral part of the band's lineup. His work on PRIEST's recent albums, including "Firepower" (2018) and "Invincible Shield" (2024), has been widely praised by both fans and critics.