After the run through of the Iron Maiden catalog I was asked to review the Saxon catalog next so we start with the self titled debut from 1979. The British Metal legends had previously been known as Son of a Bitch but changed their name at the recommendation of the record label. While the album does have some of the sound the band would become known for, overall this is a very diverse album from a band still trying to find their signature sound and showing influences such as progressive, glam, and hard rock.
“Rainbow Theme/Frozen Rainbow” leads things off and is actually two tracks but I consider them one long track. A very progressive style and unlike other songs on the album and most of the catalog but it’s cool song because of how different it is from the band. Lyrically based in a fantasy style that again wasn’t something the band did a lot.,
“Big Teaser” has a big 70s Glam influence and a catchy chorus about chasing women at a bar.
“Judgement Day” is just good straight ahead hard rock and classic NWOHM. Lyrically speaking out against society or religion or even could be government with those being held down or oppressed getting payback in the end.
“Stallions of the Highway” is classic Saxon through and through and a sign of things to come on the next several albums. About the motorcycle culture but mixed with a story of hitchhiker turned ghost but changed to a dead motorcyclist haunting the roads he once road on.
“Backs to the Wall” again has that classic NWOBHM and Saxon vibe the band became known for.
Lyrically about being held down but finding ways to fight back against society. “
Still Fit to Boogie” is all in the name. Just fun 70’s boogie rock n roll. Not great but solid. Follows the working class mentality of the band and not giving up in the face of adversity.
“Militia Guard” closes the album and is supposedly about the French Revolution. It’s just an okay song for me.
Overall the album is better than I remembered and while it’s not quite up to what the band did over the next 5-6 years it does have its moments.
Saxon – Saxon (1979)
