Saxon

United Kingdom

Saxon and Graspop Metal Meeting are like peas in a pod. This summer, Biff Byford & friends are making their 9th appearance in Dessel. Formed in 1976, Saxon are true giants of the NWOBHM movement. ‘Saxon’ (1979), ‘Wheels of Steel’ & ‘Strong Arm of the Law’ (both 1980) built a huge fan base for the band, who embarked on several sold-out tours throughout Europe, the US and Japan. Their fourth album ‘Denim and Leather’ (1981) includes such classics as the title track, ‘Never surrender’ and ‘Princess of the Night’. Their fifth full-length was even more successful and consolidated their status as one of the leading European metal acts. In the US their popularity started to wane in the late 80s but in Europe they remained a fan favourite. On 2007’s ‘The Inner Sanctum’, Saxon were back to their old form and their popularity soared once again. They haven’t looked back since and their latest album ‘Battering Ram’ (2015) is a solid punch to the gut, delivering yet another lethal dose of thunderous & epic old school metal. Even after forty years, Saxon show no signs of slowing down! (Text: Niels Desmedt / Translation: Nick Devos)