Pure, unfiltered heavy metal: Saxon brought their legendary set to London

Denim and leather really know how to connect people, and you could feel that vibe as we made our way to the Eventim Apollo. The long queue really showed who was calling the shots: the die-hard fans of classic heavy metal.

It’s a bit of a bummer that the crowd was mostly filled with veteran rockers and not many young faces. Just a quick shoutout to the younger folks who missed out—don’t forget about legends like Saxon! There are just some bands you have to see live; it’s an experience that really connects you to the heart of music history in a way that’s hard to put into words. Their show isn’t just a concert; it’s really a legacy event.

As we walked in, it felt like we were part of something special—not just a gig, but a double celebration. We were there to honour the band’s lasting impact and Biff Byford’s recovery, all while celebrating the 40th anniversary of the legendary album, “Balls to the Wall” of Udo Dirkschneider’s legacy.

Dirkschneider

1. Balls to the Wall
2. London Leatherboys
3. Fight It Back
4. Head Over Heels
5. Losing More Than You’ve Ever Had
6. Love Child
7. Turn Me On
8. Losers and Winners
9. Guardian of the Night
10. Winterdreams
11. Fast as a Shark

We start with the iconic “Balls to the Wall,” and immediately, Udo’s distinct raspy voice greets us. Just like in the past few years, Udo took the stage in his signature camo shirt and white gloves, joined by the legendary Accept bass player Peter Baltes, guitarists Dee Dammers, and his son Sven on drums.

Udo really knows how to take charge of the stage with his voice during a classic full album performance. Even though he doesn’t move around a lot on stage, he’s always pumping his fist and getting the crowd into it, urging everyone to sing along to every song, even if he sometimes misses a few lyrics.

The crowd in London was singing along to this legendary album, but I have to admit it felt a little more low-key compared to the headliner show. If it hadn’t been for the rest of the band’s energy and fun vibe, things could have been a lot quieter.

Sven took a moment at the end to thank everyone for coming out and supporting him, and then he introduced the last song, “Fast as a Shark.” announcing “Are you ready for another pop song before we leave?”

Photo: Peterson Marti.

Saxon

1. (Intro) The Prophecy
2. Hell, Fire and Damnation
3. Power and the Glory
4. Sacrifice
5. Backs to the Wall
6. Never Surrender
7. Madame Guillotine
8. Heavy Metal Thunder
9. Dallas 1 PM
10. Motorcycle Man
11. Stand Up and Be Counted
12. 747 (Strangers in the Night)
13. Wheels of Steel
14. Freeway Mad
15. See the Light Shining
16. Street Fighting Gang
17. Suzie Hold On
18. Machine Gun
19. Denim and Leather
20. And the Bands Played On
21. Strong Arm of the Law
22. Princess of the Night

If someone asked me to describe a Saxon show, I really don’t think I could put it into words that would capture how amazing it is. It’s something you really have to see to understand. This pure heavy rock energy comes from musicians who really know how to put on a show and keep you entertained. It’s all about that raw, unfiltered heavy metal vibe, just the way it is, no extras needed.

If you’re wondering how frontman Biff Byford did after his recent health issue, I have to say, if I hadn’t heard about it, I wouldn’t have noticed a thing. Biff, with that classic voice and strong presence, still rocks out and headbangs just like he did back in the day. His vocal range really stands out as a key part of what this band brings to today’s music—it’s all about pure rock ‘n’ roll, leather, and motorbikes.

Over on the other side of the stage, we had the pleasure of welcoming a familiar legend: Brian Tatler, the new guitarist. If you recall him as the legendary riff-master from Diamond Head, known for “Am I Evil?”, then you definitely understand the pedigree he brings to Saxon. He’s been jamming with the band since 2023, and he totally fits in.

Then there’s bass player Nibbs Carter, who is like a non-stop time bomb, hopping and darting across the stage like a grasshopper. His energy is unmatchable and with only few tracks in he was shaking his head so fast that no metalhead could possibly keep up! At one point, he really went for it and show off his bare chest, then threw on a fan leather jacket for a few songs. I have no idea what he’s having for breakfast, but I definitely want some of it too!

When it comes to the setlist that covered their whole legendary career. They played all their big hits, plus some new songs from their recent 2024 album, “Hell, Fire and Damnation”. The new material really keeps that unique, gritty sound intact without coming off as too polished—especially when you look at what some of their peers have been releasing lately.

I have to say, I was a little disappointed that I didn’t get to see the eagle swooping down from the ceiling like I did the last few times I watched their show. They ended up using some background videos, and there were definitely some iffy AI-generated graphics during “Madame Guillotine.” But again, Saxon isn’t into the frills, like I said; they’re all about that pure, raw heavy metal energy.

Saxon has a knack for helping you escape all the noise, negativity, and the not-so-great stuff around us. Their catchy songs really know how to keep you moving and in the moment. Why don’t we take a moment to appreciate the little things in life? Thank you Saxon to be there for us.

Photo: Peterson Marti.