At about the same time, the band members adopted their now-famous "leather-and-studs" fashion image, inspired by Rob Halford's interest in leather culture.

[5] Singer Rob Halford simply said that their US-label found Killing Machine too much of a heavy statement to use, and suggested the alternative title to the band.

With Killing Machine, Judas Priest began moving to a more accessible, commercial format that abandoned the complex, fantasy-themed songs of their previous three albums.

This was reflected in their change of stage costumes from flowing Gothic robes to leather, but was also a reaction to the rising punk and new wave movements.

The band's new, simpler sound was the result of several factors, amongst them being a desire to compete with the energy and speed of punk rock, the need to produce songs that were easier to perform live, and the wish to appeal more to American audiences.

[7] Tracks such as "Burnin' Up" and "Evil Fantasies" are replete with S&M themes while "Running Wild" is about late-night partying and "Before the Dawn" a depressing ballad.

The single "Take On the World" was an attempt at producing a stadium shoutalong tune in the mould of Queen's "We Will Rock You", and was also covered by new wave band The Human League on their 1980 tour.

The bonus track "Fight for Your Life" was the "original" version of Judas Priest's "Rock Hard Ride Free" from their Defenders of the Faith album.