Former JUDAS PRIEST members K.K. Downing (guitar), Tim “Ripper” Owens (vocals) and Les Binks (drums) have joined forced in a new band called KK’S PRIEST.

The group, which will pay homage to Downing‘s past the lineup, is rounded out by guitarist A.J. Mills (HOSTILE) and bassist Tony Newton (VOODOO SIX).

Here’s the statement from KK:

“Forging ahead with KK’S PRIEST was not only inevitable but essential for me to perform and deliver everything that is expected from me and KK’S PRIEST.

“Due to the massive demand and overwhelming support from fans around the world, I feel this is where I belong, and a set combining the true, classic songs and sound of PRIEST, together with great, newly forged metal tracks, is what fans can expect when KK’S PRIEST is taking to stages.”

KK’S PRIEST is working on its debut album, to be released via Explorer1 Music Group.

It will also play select shows later this year to mark the 50th anniversary of PRIEST and Downing‘s career as a founding member. KK’S PRIEST‘s setlist will consist of PRIEST classics and new songs.

KK’S PRIEST is represented exclusively by Andy Gould for Explorer1, with Jim Morewood handling the band’s global bookings outside the U.S. for the K2 Agency.