Alcatraz Line up: 2009, 2017, 2019, 2024

With 24 studio albums to their credit and a career that spans nearly half a century, Saxon have absolutely nothing left to prove. Formed in 1975 in Barnsley, UK, Saxon are true giants of the NWOBHM movement. ‘Saxon’ (1979), ‘Wheels of Steel’ & ‘Strong Arm of the Law’ (both 1980) built a huge fan base for the band, who embarked on several sold-out tours throughout Europe, the US and Japan. Their fourth album ‘Denim and Leather’ (1981) includes such classics as the title track, ‘Never surrender’ and ‘Princess of the Night’. Their fifth full-length was even more successful and consolidated their status as one of the leading European metal acts. In the US their popularity waned a bit in the late 80s but in Europe they remained a fan favourite. Strong studio albums like 1995’s ‘Dogs of War’ helped them stay relevant these many years and on ‘The Inner Sanctum’ (2007), Saxon were back to vintage form once again. ‘Thunderbolt’ (2018) is a solid punch to the gut, delivering yet another lethal dose of thunderous and epic old school metal and their latest slab ‘Hell, Fire and Damnation’ is set for a 2024 release. Even after five decades Saxon show no signs of slowing down.