It is onerous to imagine that Hell, Fireplace and Damnation is Saxon‘s Twenty-Fourth(!) studio document. However right here we’re. Whereas Saxon will get numerous notoriety for his or her wealth of singles within the Nineteen Eighties like “Denim and Leather-based,” “Robust Arm of the Regulation,” and “Wheels of Metal” – all New Wave of British Heavy Steel classics – we should not overlook that this band has been placing out some stellar music within the newer, latter a part of their profession as effectively. This latest document, co-produced, combined and masterful by the sensible Andy Sneap (Judas Priest, Exodus) may be one of many band’s most full and effectively put collectively LPs up to now.
For those who’re a Saxon fan you in all probability already know what to anticipate. There aren’t any surprises right here on Hell, Fireplace and Damnation. It is unmistakably Saxon and those that have been following these stalwarts of the UK scene because the late 1970’s are going to have the ability to acknowledge the acquainted twin guitar assault proper from the get-go.
The lead, self-titled single off the document is simply completely dazzling. It is an up to date sound that also has that Saxon signature to it. Except you’ve got seen the band dwell just lately, that is probably your first style of Brian Tatler on guitar. Sure – THAT Brian Tatler from fellow NWOBHM band Diamond Head. You possibly can catch Tatler within the completely slamming video for the observe right here:
Whereas authentic member Paul Quinn has apparently retired from the band, along with Tatler, the quintet nonetheless options long-time guitarist Doug Scarratt, who has been with Saxon since 1995 and has performed on all studio releases from The Eagle has Landed – Half II onward. Band veterans Nigel Glockler (who was additionally in 80’s prog band Asia) and Nibbs Carter spherical out the lineup.
Songs like “Kubla Khan and the Service provider of Venice” and “Tremendous Charger” have this unmistakable vitality to them. They’re simply luminous fist-pumping, foot-stomping rockers. Cuts like “There’s One thing in Roswell” additionally showcase the truth that Saxon‘s decades-old components nonetheless works. On this respect, the band nonetheless options the ability and sonics of their newer data like the large Thunderbolt (2018) which was an absolute banger of a document in its personal proper.
“Pirates of the Airwaves” is a music very a lot within the vein of traditional 80’s metallic. Whereas “Fireplace and Metal” will deliver you again a bit additional, to the late 70’s. Whereas Saxon will not rating any originality factors for these two, they’re each effectively written songs that these of us pushing 50… or possibly even 60 or 70… can simply relate to. Not point out Biff Byford‘s lead vocals on tracks like these appear to have barely aged in any respect. He sings higher in his 70s than many do of their 20s. To be frank, I completely adore Biff‘s vocal efficiency right here. There’s a lot ardour and drive in his voice.
Whereas Hell, Fireplace and Damnation will fulfill even probably the most ardent Saxon an NWOBHM followers, that is most definitely a document that youthful followers who’ve come to like bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest also needs to try.
