Complete List of Saxon Albums And Discography

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Saxon was formed in 1977 in Barnsley, Yorkshire, England. Saxon released their self-titled debut album in 1979. The lineup that brought them into prominence included Biff Byford (vocals), Paul Quinn (guitar), Graham Oliver (guitar), Steve Dawson (bass), and Pete Gill (drums), though there have been several lineup changes over the years.

Saxon quickly became known for their powerful live performances and strong musicianship, characterized by fast-paced, guitar-driven heavy metal. The band achieved substantial commercial success with albums like Wheels of Steel (1980) and Strong Arm of the Law (1980), both of which are regarded as classic heavy metal albums. These albums helped to establish Saxon as major players in the heavy metal scene, with Wheels of Steel reaching No. 5 in the UK Albums Chart. They continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s, including Denim and Leather (1981) and Crusader (1984).

Over the years, Saxon has released more than 20 studio albums, multiple live albums, and several compilations. They have experienced a resurgence in popularity since the late 1990s and into the new millennium, consistently producing new music that adheres to their classic sound while also exploring new musical directions. Albums like The Inner Sanctum (2007) and Thunderbolt (2018) have been particularly well-received, demonstrating the band’s ability to remain relevant in the evolving heavy metal genre. Although Saxon hasn’t won any major music awards, their influence and contributions to heavy metal have been widely recognized within the industry.

SAXON STUDIO ALBUMS

Released: May 21, 1979

Saxon, the debut album by the British heavy metal band Saxon, marked the beginning of their influence within the new wave of British heavy metal movement. Although it did not chart highly upon its initial release, it laid the groundwork for the band’s future success with its raw sound and energetic tracks.

The album was produced by John Verity and recorded at Livingston Studios, London. It features the original lineup of Biff Byford on vocals, Paul Quinn and Graham Oliver on guitars, Steve Dawson on bass, and Pete Gill on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“Rainbow Theme” – 3:07
“Frozen Rainbow” – 2:29
“Big Teaser” – 3:55
“Judgement Day” – 5:31
“Stallions of the Highway” – 2:52
“Backs to the Wall” – 3:09
“Still Fit to Boogie” – 2:53
“Militia Guard” – 4:50

Wheels of Steel

Released: May 5, 1980

Wheels of Steel is considered one of Saxon’s most significant albums, featuring classic tracks such as the title song “Wheels of Steel” and “747 (Strangers in the Night).” It was their first major success, reaching number 5 on the UK Albums Chart and breaking them into other European markets, establishing Saxon as a major act in the heavy metal scene.

Produced by Pete Hinton and Saxon, the album was recorded at Ramport Studios, London. The powerful guitar riffs and anthemic choruses showcased the band’s ability to craft songs that resonated with the growing heavy metal community.

CD Track Listings:

“Motorcycle Man” – 3:56
“Stand Up and Be Counted” – 3:10
“747 (Strangers in the Night)” – 4:58
“Wheels of Steel” – 5:58
“Freeway Mad” – 2:41
“See the Light Shining” – 4:56
“Street Fighting Gang” – 3:26
“Suzie Hold On” – 4:34
“Machine Gun” – 5:23

Strong Arm of the Law

Released: September 1, 1980

Released just a few months after Wheels of Steel, Strong Arm of the Law continued Saxon’s chart success, peaking at number 11 on the UK Albums Chart. This album is noted for its potent title track and “Dallas 1 PM,” a song about the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

Produced by Pete Hinton and Saxon, the album was recorded at Ramport Studios, London, immediately following their previous album’s success. The band maintained their momentum with more forceful and confident songwriting.

CD Track Listings:

“Heavy Metal Thunder” – 4:20
“To Hell and Back Again” – 4:44
“Strong Arm of the Law” – 4:39
“Taking Your Chances” – 4:19
“20,000 Ft” – 3:16
“Hungry Years” – 5:18
“Sixth Form Girls” – 4:19
“Dallas 1 PM” – 6:29

Denim and Leather

Released: October 5, 1981

Denim and Leather served as a tribute to Saxon’s fan base, with the title track becoming a heavy metal anthem. This album solidified their status as one of the leading forces in British heavy metal, peaking at number 9 on the UK Albums Chart. It included fan favorites like “Princess of the Night” and “Never Surrender.”

The album was produced by Nigel Thomas and recorded at Aquarius Studios, Geneva, Switzerland. It captures the spirit of the early ’80s heavy metal scene and Saxon’s connection to their fans.

CD Track Listings:

“Princess of the Night” – 4:02
“Never Surrender” – 3:15
“Out of Control” – 4:07
“Rough and Ready” – 4:51
“Play It Loud” – 4:11
“And the Bands Played On” – 2:48
“Midnight Rider” – 5:46
“Fire in the Sky” – 3:37
“Denim and Leather” – 5:27

Power & the Glory

Released: March 21, 1983

Power & the Glory saw Saxon attempting to break into the American market, featuring a more polished sound tailored to appeal to a broader audience. It reached number 15 on the UK Albums Chart and was also successful in the United States. The title track “Power and the Glory” became one of their most iconic songs.

Produced by Jeff Glixman, the album was recorded at Axis Sound Studio in Atlanta, Georgia. This release marked a pivotal moment in Saxon’s career as they aimed to capture the explosive American heavy metal scene.

CD Track Listings:

“Power and the Glory” – 5:57
“Redline” – 3:38
“Warrior” – 3:47
“Nightmare” – 4:25
“This Town Rocks” – 3:58
“Watching the Sky” – 3:42
“Midas Touch” – 4:11
“The Eagle Has Landed” – 6:56

Crusader

Released: April 16, 1984

Crusader is known for its epic title track and continued Saxon’s exploration of more commercial sounds. It reached number 18 on the UK Albums Chart. The album features a mix of hard rock and heavy metal with accessible hooks, aiming to maintain their presence both in the UK and overseas markets.

Produced by Kevin Beamish, the album was recorded at Sound City Studios in Los Angeles, California. It features some of Saxon’s most ambitious songwriting and production efforts aimed at expanding their musical reach.

CD Track Listings:

“The Crusader Prelude” – 1:06
“Crusader” – 6:34
“A Little Bit of What You Fancy” – 3:51
“Sailing to America” – 5:04
“Set Me Free” – 3:15
“Just Let Me Rock” – 4:12
“Bad Boys (Like to Rock ‘n’ Roll)” – 3:25
“Do It All for You” – 4:44
“Rock City” – 3:16
“Run for Your Lives” – 3:54

Innocence Is No Excuse

Released: June 24, 1985

Innocence Is No Excuse marked Saxon’s attempt to further penetrate the American market with a more polished and radio-friendly sound. Despite mixed reactions from longtime fans who preferred their earlier, harder sound, the album showcased the band’s versatility and reached number 36 on the UK Albums Chart.

Produced by Simon Hanhart and Saxon, the album was recorded at several locations including Wisseloord Studios, Hilversum, Netherlands. It featured more mainstream rock elements, aimed at broadening their audience base.

CD Track Listings:

“Rockin’ Again” – 5:12
“Call of the Wild” – 4:03
“Back on the Streets” – 4:00
“Devil Rides Out” – 4:23
“Rock ‘n’ Roll Gypsy” – 4:15
“Broken Heroes” – 5:28
“Gonna Shout” – 3:59
“Everybody Up” – 3:29
“Raise Some Hell” – 3:41
“Give It Everything You’ve Got” – 3:29

Rock the Nations

Released: October 13, 1986

Rock the Nations continued Saxon’s exploration of a more accessible sound. Although not as commercially successful as some of their previous albums, it still featured solid tracks like “Northern Lady” and “Waiting for the Night.” The album also included notable guest appearances by Elton John on two tracks.

Produced by Gary Lyons, the album was recorded at several studios, including Hook End Manor, Checkendon, England. It demonstrated the band’s commitment to evolving their sound while trying to maintain their heavy metal roots.

CD Track Listings:

“Rock the Nations” – 4:40
“Battle Cry” – 5:26
“Waiting for the Night” – 4:51
“We Came Here to Rock” – 4:20
“You Ain’t No Angel” – 5:29
“Running Hot” – 3:36
“Party ‘Til You Puke” – 3:26
“Empty Promises” – 4:10
“Northern Lady” – 4:42

Destiny

Released: June 20, 1988

Destiny found Saxon experimenting with synthesizers and glossy production, reflecting the late ’80s pop-metal trend. The album features a cover of Christopher Cross’s “Ride Like the Wind,” which became one of their most recognized tracks from this era. Despite its attempt to align with contemporary trends, it received mixed reviews and had modest chart success.

Produced by Stephan Galfas, the album was recorded at various locations, including Hook End Manor, Checkendon, England, and featured polished, synth-driven arrangements.

CD Track Listings:

“Ride Like the Wind” – 4:28
“Where the Lightning Strikes” – 4:19
“I Can’t Wait Anymore” – 4:24
“Calm Before the Storm” – 3:53
“S.O.S.” – 5:53
“Song for Emma” – 4:50
“For Whom the Bell Tolls” – 3:56
“We Are Strong” – 3:56
“Jericho Siren” – 3:39
“Red Alert” – 4:31

Solid Ball of Rock

Released: January 4, 1991

Solid Ball of Rock was seen as a return to form for Saxon, moving back towards their heavier, more straightforward metal roots after their experimental phase in the late 1980s. The title track and “Requiem (We Will Remember)” became fan favorites, and the album was well-received for recapturing the band’s classic sound.

Produced by Kalle Trapp, the album was recorded at Karo Studios, Brackel, Germany, showcasing a robust production that emphasized powerful guitars and energetic vocals.

CD Track Listings:

“Solid Ball of Rock” – 4:39
“Altar of the Gods” – 3:30
“Requiem (We Will Remember)” – 5:16
“Lights in the Sky” – 4:03
“I Just Can’t Get Enough” – 4:34
“Baptism of Fire” – 3:08
“Ain’t Gonna Take It” – 4:47
“I’m on Fire” – 4:24
“Overture in B-Minor Refugee” – 2:47
“Bavarian Beaver” – 1:17
“Crash Dive” – 4:21

Forever Free

Released: May 18, 1992

Forever Free continued the revitalization of Saxon’s sound, featuring a blend of heavy metal and hard rock with tracks like “Iron Wheels” and the title track “Forever Free.” The album reflected the band’s consistency and ability to produce solid heavy metal music despite the changing musical landscape of the early ’90s.

Produced by Biff Byford and Herwig Ursin, the album was recorded at Hey You Studios, Vienna, Austria. It was praised for its strong melodies and classic metal riffs.

CD Track Listings:

“Forever Free” – 4:57
“Hole in the Sky” – 4:42
“Just Wanna Make Love to You” – 3:54
“Get Down and Dirty” – 5:05
“Iron Wheels” – 4:12
“One Step Away” – 4:56
“Can’t Stop Rockin'” – 4:03
“Nighthunter” – 3:22
“Grind” – 4:23
“Cloud Nine” – 4:36

Dogs of War

Released: August 14, 1995

Dogs of War was another strong release for Saxon, featuring a heavier and more aggressive sound with tracks like “Dogs of War” and “Burning Wheels.” This album showcased Saxon’s ability to keep up with the heavier aspects of metal evolving in the mid-’90s, receiving positive feedback for its intensity and straightforward metal approach.

Produced by Biff Byford and Rainer Hänsel, the album was recorded at Gems Studio in Boston, England. It continued to affirm Saxon’s status as one of the enduring bands in heavy metal.

CD Track Listings:

“Dogs of War” – 4:36
“Burning Wheels” – 4:10
“Don’t Worry” – 5:17
“Big Twin Rolling (Coming Home)” – 5:23
“Hold On” – 4:31
“The Great White Buffalo” – 5:52
“Demolition Alley” – 6:09
“Walking Through Tokyo” – 5:50
“Give It All Away” – 4:03
“Yesterday’s Gone” – 3:43

Unleash the Beast

Released: May 1997

Unleash the Beast is noted for its dark themes and robust production. The album includes the powerful title track and “Absent Friends,” blending traditional heavy metal with the thematic depth that explores modern anxieties and myths. This album helped maintain Saxon’s relevance in the heavy metal scene of the late ’90s.

Produced by Kalle Trapp, the album was recorded at Karo Studios, Brackel, Germany. It was well-received for its solid compositions and dynamic sound, confirming Saxon’s mastery of heavy metal.

CD Track Listings:

“Gothic Dreams” – 1:33
“Unleash the Beast” – 5:16
“Terminal Velocity” – 4:43
“Circle of Light” – 5:26
“The Thin Red Line” – 6:20
“Ministry of Fools” – 4:29
“The Preacher” – 4:55
“Bloodletter” – 5:31
“Cut Out the Disease” – 5:23
“Absent Friends” – 4:54
“All Hell Breaking Loose” – 4:31

Metalhead

Released: December 1999

Metalhead saw Saxon delving into a heavier, more modern sound, incorporating elements of power metal and progressive metal. Notable tracks such as “Metalhead” and “Conquistador” demonstrate the band’s continued evolution and their ability to adapt to the heavier music trends of the late ’90s.

Produced by Biff Byford and Rainer Hänsel, the album was recorded at Gems 24 Studio in Boston, England. It was praised for its aggressive riffs and thematic complexity, showcasing Saxon’s continued innovation in their musical style.

CD Track Listings:

“Intro” – 1:24
“Metalhead” – 4:52
“Are We Travellers in Time” – 5:17
“Conquistador” – 4:42
“What Goes Around” – 4:24
“Song of Evil” – 4:12
“All Guns Blazing” – 3:53
“Prisoner” – 4:12
“Piss Off” – 4:03
“Watching You” – 5:27
“Sea of Life” – 8:12

Killing Ground

Released: September 25, 2001

Killing Ground blends traditional Saxon heavy metal with modern influences, creating a powerful and dynamic sound. It features a mix of new tracks and re-recorded versions of older songs, providing a fresh take on their classic sound. The album was well-received for its robust production and consistency, keeping Saxon relevant in the new millennium.

Produced by Biff Byford and Rainer Hänsel, the album was recorded at Karo Studios, Brackel, Germany. It includes standout tracks like the epic “Killing Ground” and the revisited “Court of the Crimson King.”

CD Track Listings:

“Intro” – 1:36
“Killing Ground” – 5:44
“Court of the Crimson King” – 6:00
“Coming Home” – 3:38
“Hell Freezes Over” – 4:42
“Dragon’s Lair” – 3:38
“You Don’t Know What You’ve Got” – 5:00
“Deeds of Glory” – 4:34
“Running for the Border” – 4:24
“Shadows on the Wall” – 6:15
“Rock Is Our Life” – 3:55

Lionheart

Released: September 20, 2004

Lionheart is themed around medieval England, combining historical narratives with powerful heavy metal instrumentation. The album was praised for its thematic depth and musical complexity, marking it as one of Saxon’s stronger late-career offerings.

Produced by Charlie Bauerfeind, the album was recorded at Gems 24 Studio in Boston, England. It features tracks like “Witchfinder General” and the title track “Lionheart,” which showcase Saxon’s signature blend of storytelling and heavy riffs.

CD Track Listings:

“Witchfinder General” – 4:49
“Man and Machine” – 3:28
“The Return” – 1:18
“Lionheart” – 6:04
“Beyond the Grave” – 4:55
“Justice” – 4:26
“To Live by the Sword” – 4:10
“Jack Tars” – 0:54
“English Man ‘O War” – 4:08
“Searching for Atlantis” – 5:54
“Flying on the Edge” – 4:54

The Inner Sanctum

Released: March 5, 2007

The Inner Sanctum saw Saxon continue to refine their sound, delivering a potent mix of aggression and melody. The album features heavy, fast-paced tracks and has been noted for its energetic delivery and solid songwriting. It received positive reviews for tracks like “State of Grace” and “Let Me Feel Your Power.”

Produced by Charlie Bauerfeind, the album was recorded at Twilight Hall Studios, Grefrath, Germany. It exemplifies the band’s ability to blend classic metal elements with contemporary energy.

CD Track Listings:

“State of Grace” – 5:37
“Need for Speed” – 3:08
“Let Me Feel Your Power” – 3:29
“Red Star Falling” – 6:16
“I’ve Got to Rock (To Stay Alive)” – 4:40
“If I Was You” – 3:27
“Going Nowhere Fast” – 4:15
“Ashes to Ashes” – 4:52
“Empire Rising” – 0:41
“Attila the Hun” – 8:09

Into the Labyrinth

Released: January 9, 2009

Into the Labyrinth, crafted with the same energy and drive as its predecessors, mixes classic Saxon heavy metal with thematic storytelling. The album, featuring tracks like “Battalions of Steel” and “Live to Rock,” was well-received and appreciated for maintaining the band’s high standards.

Produced by Charlie Bauerfeind, the album was recorded at Twilight Hall Studios and features a blend of powerful guitar riffs and deep lyrical content, reflecting the band’s ongoing commitment to quality and their heavy metal roots.

CD Track Listings:

“Battalions of Steel” – 6:34
“Live to Rock” – 5:30
“Demon Sweeney Todd” – 3:51
“The Letter” – 0:42
“Valley of the Kings” – 5:03
“Slow Lane Blues” – 4:08
“Crime of Passion” – 4:04
“Premonition in D Minor” – 0:40
“Voice” – 4:35
“Protect Yourselves” – 3:56
“Hellcat” – 3:54
“Come Rock of Ages (The Circle Is Complete)” – 3:52
“Coming Home” (Bottleneck Version) – 3:12

Call to Arms

Released: June 3, 2011

Call to Arms is noted for its return to the classic Saxon sound, blending historical themes with anthemic rock. The album includes the deeply reflective “Back in ’79” and the rousing title track “Call to Arms.” It was well-received for its classic approach and energetic execution.

Produced by Biff Byford and Toby Jepson, the album was recorded at Chapel Studios, Lincolnshire and Brighton Electric, Brighton. It features a dynamic range of songs that showcase Saxon’s ability to connect with both old fans and new.

CD Track Listings:

“Hammer of the Gods” – 4:21
“Back in ’79” – 3:28
“Surviving Against the Odds” – 2:59
“Mists of Avalon” – 5:02
“Call to Arms” – 4:28
“Chasing the Bullet” – 4:14
“Afterburner” – 3:06
“When Doomsday Comes (Hybrid Theory)” – 4:28
“No Rest for the Wicked” – 3:08
“Ballad of the Working Man” – 3:48
“Call to Arms” (Orchestral Version) – 4:27

Sacrifice

Released: March 1, 2013

Sacrifice features some of the heaviest songs Saxon has produced in their later career, emphasizing a raw and powerful sound. Tracks like “Sacrifice” and “Warriors of the Road” reflect the band’s continued commitment to heavy metal. The album was praised for its vigor and no-nonsense approach to metal.

Produced by Biff Byford and Andy Sneap, the album was recorded at LS Studios in Yorkshire. It exemplifies the band’s enduring energy and their ability to produce relevant heavy metal music.

CD Track Listings:

“Procession” – 1:45
“Sacrifice” – 3:58
“Made in Belfast” – 4:34
“Warriors of the Road” – 3:34
“Guardians of the Tomb” – 4:48
“Stand Up and Fight” – 4:02
“Walking the Steel” – 4:24
“Night of the Wolf” – 4:20
“Wheels of Terror” – 4:23
“Standing in a Queue” – 3:36

Battering Ram

Released: October 16, 2015

Battering Ram continues the trend of robust, powerful heavy metal, marked by its title track and other standouts like “The Devil’s Footprint.” The album captures the classic Saxon sound, updated for contemporary audiences, and was well-received for its cohesiveness and intense energy.

Produced by Andy Sneap, the album was recorded at Backstage Recording Studios in Derbyshire. It features a combination of fast-paced tracks and anthemic choruses, showcasing Saxon’s ability to adapt and evolve while remaining true to their roots.

CD Track Listings:

“Battering Ram” – 4:56
“The Devil’s Footprint” – 4:09
“Queen of Hearts” – 5:08
“Destroyer” – 3:20
“Hard and Fast” – 4:45
“Eye of the Storm” – 3:54
“Stand Your Ground” – 4:15
“Top of the World” – 4:00
“To the End” – 5:50
“Kingdom of the Cross” – 6:08

Thunderbolt

Released: February 2, 2018

Thunderbolt is a celebration of classic heavy metal themes, from mythology to warfare, delivering powerful tracks like “Thunderbolt” and “Sniper.” The album was acclaimed for its high energy and precision, proving that Saxon remains a formidable force in heavy metal.

Produced by Andy Sneap, the album was recorded at Backstage Recording Studios in Derbyshire. It features a mix of high-octane tracks and epic narratives, highlighting the band’s skill in crafting engaging metal anthems.

CD Track Listings:

“Olympus Rising” – 1:32
“Thunderbolt” – 3:59
“The Secret of Flight” – 5:02
“Nosferatu (The Vampires Waltz)” – 4:58
“They Played Rock and Roll” – 3:39
“Predator” – 3:17
“Sons of Odin” – 4:24
“Sniper” – 3:36
“A Wizard’s Tale” – 3:51
“Speed Merchants” – 3:47
“Roadie’s Song” – 3:31

Inspirations

Released: March 19, 2021

Inspirations is an album by Saxon that pays homage to the music that influenced the band throughout their career. This collection features covers of classic rock and heavy metal tracks that have inspired Saxon’s sound and ethos. The album was well-received for its authentic rendition of these classics, showcasing the band’s respect and admiration for rock and metal legends.

Produced by Biff Byford and Seb Byford, the album was recorded at Brockfield Hall, near York, England. It includes covers of iconic songs from bands like The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath, giving each song a unique Saxon twist.

CD Track Listings:

“Paint It Black” – 3:20 (Originally by The Rolling Stones)
“Immigrant Song” – 2:29 (Originally by Led Zeppelin)
“Paperback Writer” – 2:50 (Originally by The Beatles)
“Evil Woman” – 4:25 (Originally by Black Sabbath)
“Stone Free” – 3:27 (Originally by Jimi Hendrix)
“Bomber” – 3:34 (Originally by Motörhead)
“Speed King” – 3:42 (Originally by Deep Purple)
“The Rocker” – 3:26 (Originally by Thin Lizzy)
“Hold the Line” – 3:37 (Originally by Toto)
“Problem Child” – 5:29 (Originally by AC/DC)
“See My Friends” – 4:48 (Originally by The Kinks)

Carpe Diem

Released: February 4, 2022

Carpe Diem captures Saxon’s enduring spirit and commitment to heavy metal, featuring powerful tracks that emphasize seizing the day and living to the fullest. The album has been noted for its vigorous production and anthemic content, maintaining the band’s status in the metal community.

Produced by Andy Sneap, the album continues Saxon’s legacy with a blend of classic metal elements and modern production, recorded at Backstage Recording Studios in Derbyshire.

CD Track Listings:

“Carpe Diem (Seize the Day)” – 5:05
“Age of Steam” – 4:25
“The Pilgrimage” – 5:27
“Dambusters” – 3:24
“Remember the Fallen” – 5:29
“Super Nova” – 3:57
“Lady in Grey” – 4:12
“All for One” – 3:42
“Black is the Night” – 4:56
“Living on the Limit” – 4:11

More Inspirations

Released: March 24, 2023

Following the success of Inspirations, Saxon released More Inspirations, continuing their tribute to the classic songs and artists that shaped their musical journey. This album includes a new set of covers that further explore the roots of rock and heavy metal, delivered with Saxon’s signature power and intensity.

Produced by Biff Byford and Seb Byford, the album was also recorded at Brockfield Hall. It builds on the concept of its predecessor by featuring a diverse range of influential tracks, reinterpreted through Saxon’s heavy metal lens.