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Formed in Yorkshire in 1976, Saxon achieved a major breakthrough during the so-called new wave of British heavy metal boom in the 1980s with their fierce, uncompromising guitar-based rock going on to sell over 13 million albums and influencing others who followed in their wake, including Metallica and Megadeth. Originally called Son of a Bitch, they released their self-titled debut album in 1979, hitting the charts with 'Wheels of Steel' in 1980 which included the hit single '747 (Strangers in The Night)' and its follow-up 'Strong Arm of the Law'. More success followed with the 'Denim and Leather' album in 1981, and the title track became an anthem for 1980s British heavy metal. Alongside kindred spirits like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, Saxon blazed a new trail for hard rock, though hardcore fans became critical when the group adopted a smoother, more obviously commercial style as they broke into the American market. Despite personnel changes they continued to be a headline act at festivals and attracted attention through the 1990s and 2000s, winning rave reviews for their 'Inner Sanctum' album in 2007 and 'Into the Labyrinth' in 2009. 'Call to Arms' came in 2011 followed by Sacrifice' two years later and, after an interview in 2014 during which front man Biff Byford hinted at a new album, they released 'Battering Ram' in 2015. 2017 saw the announcement of Saxon's 22nd studio album titled 'Thunderbolt' along with a European tour with Magnum, Rock Goddess and Diamond.Artist biography compiled by BDS/West 10. All rights reserved
