1476 - Saxon Beyond The Grave 2004

Saxon’s 2004 ‘Lionheart’ full length was a critically acclaimed album that proved the band still had it after 30 proud years of what a lot of people seem to refer to as “true metal”. Though the consistency of albums, and some slightly AORish moments had been a little rocky at times, Saxon was still producing largely high-grade shit that could still banish foes, though not quite as relentlessly as during their phylum of early-mid 80s dominators. But now it was the 2000’s and the recent wave of classic heavy metal resurgence seems to have given impetus and motivation to these proud British stalwarts, compelling them to come up with what is arguably their best offering in years. The Ballad-esque intro carries the track "Beyond the Grave" until a more distorted sound and heavier drumming, yet the vocals remain as operatic as ever. Enter a Slash-like solo, performed almost as effortlessly as tuning up. Many Saxon fans would fear this change in pace while others open their arms to such a fresh sound.