Long in the works, "Nostradamus" takes epic storytelling to a whole new level, as it recounts the life of this mysterious, world-known 16th Century French prophet. Some of the events that Nostradamus experts have interpreted as his predictions include the great fire of London in 1666, the rise of Adolf Hitler, and most recently, 9-11, among countless other renowned events.

"As in any concept piece, the lifeline needs to be of a solid source, taking the music over many levels of interest and perception," points out singer Rob Halford. "Nostradamus contains new frontiers explored and defined. The sense of adventure and the journey we undertook bringing the man's life alive with metal was a real labour of love."

As with all new Priest releases, the group - singer Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer Scott Travis - will embark on a mammoth worldwide tour in support of "Nostradamus." Priest will be performing at the 2008 Download Festival - on a bill also featuring Kiss - which will serve as a "homecoming" of sorts for the group, as they performed at the first-ever "Monsters of Rock Festival" at Donington Park in 1980.

In addition to the regular jewel case double CD version of the album, collectors will undoubtedly be interested in hunting down a copy of a Deluxe Double CD housed in a 48 page hardbound book package. But that's not all - a Super Deluxe Box-set version will also be available with triple vinyl, the double CD, an expanded booklet and a poster.

To get a taste of what awaits for you within Nostradamus, go to Livenation.com/judaspriest on Monday, April 21st to download exclusive free MP3 of the album's title track, as well as view the world premiere of the album cover art.

Nostradamus tracklisting: