Heavy Metal
Silver Lining Music
Release Date – January 19th 2024
Line Up:
Biff Byford – Vocals
Doug Scarratt – Guitar
Brian Tatler – Guitar
Nibbs Carter – Bass
Nigel Glockler – Drums
Tracklist:
1 – The Prophecy
2 – Hell, Fire And Damnation
3 – Madam Guillotine
4 – Fire And Steel
5 – There’s Something In Roswell
6 – Kubla Khan And The Merchant Of Venice
7 – Pirates Of The Airwaves
8 – 1066
9 – Witches Of Salem
10 – Super Charger
Over the thrilling rollercoaster of the last two decades, Saxon has soared to a pinnacle of creative prowess and unwavering performance excellence. With a legacy that requires no validation, they effortlessly churn out stellar albums, leaving audiences in awe with their live spectacles. Enter their latest masterpiece, ‘Hell, Fire And Damnation’ – buckle up, because it’s a ride you won’t forget.
Embarking on this sonic journey, you’re met with the colossal introduction, ‘The Prophecy,’ featuring none other than the thunderous orator, Brian Blessed OBE, delivering a spine-tingling spoken word performance. The title track erupts from the speakers, wielding razor-sharp riffs courtesy of the dynamic duo, Doug Scarratt and the newcomer, Brian Tatler. Tatler, possessing the sacred gift of the riff, not only stepped in to fill the void left by Paul Quinn but also co-wrote three powerhouse tracks on the album. Biff, in prime vocal form, leads the charge, and the rhythm section is tighter than a duck’s proverbial posterior.
‘Madame Guillotine’ sets the stage with a steady rock groove, narrating a historical tale in true Saxon fashion. Craving Saxon’s signature speed metal? ‘Fire And Steel’ delivers in abundance before the irresistible groove of ‘There’s Something In Roswell’ takes hold. Enter another historical saga – ‘Kubla Khan And The Merchant Of Venice,’ an epic banger that catapults us back to childhood memories with ‘Pirate Of The Airwaves.’ ‘1066’ revisits the Battle of Hastings, a subject perfectly tailored to Saxon’s heavy repertoire, with a thunderous ride leading to a melodic breakdown and stellar axework from Scarratt and Tatler. ‘Witches Of Salem’ reintroduces the groove, and no Saxon album is complete without a speed anthem – enter the album closer, ‘Super Charger,’ ending in a crescendo of exhaust fumes and burning rubber.
Having been a force since the mid-70s, Saxon shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, they radiate unparalleled energy and freshness, courtesy of Biff and Andy Sneap’s colossal crystal-clear production. The performances are nothing short of world-class, the songs destined to become timeless classics. Disregard any dour reviews; this album caters to Saxon fans’ every desire and stands tall as one of their crowning achievements EVER!
Written by: Smudge
Ratings: 10/10
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