The founders of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), Saxon, have released a new album onto the heavy metal world called Into the Labyrinth. This is their latest in their monster catalog of heavy metal classics which goes back to 1979 with their self titled debut. Saxon doesn’t stand still and never copies the previous album… even the albums that have had commercial success. In recent years Saxon has had a resurgence of popularity because they keep playing and writing songs. You can’t keep ignoring a band that has a huge fan base in Europe and even the United States.

What do we have on Into the Labyrinth? A pure Saxon album full of pillaging… When you put this on and turn it up, your neighbors should probably watch out because you might jump over the fence with broadsword in hand to collect a bit of booty. (Provided you have a broadsword handy.) We get an alternation between power metal with ripping guitars, steady heavy blues, and arena friendly rockers.

The album opens up with the traditional intro much like those that have appeared on many album beginning with Crusader, then rips into the customary battle cry of “Battalions of Steel.” Moving quickly onto the evil overture of “Demon Sweeny Todd” for the thrashers, Biff Byford delivers some soaring vocals and Paul Quinn sears your ear with some masterful shredding.

It didn’t take many listens to determine that there are some standout songs on this release that satisfy my Saxon addiction. “Protect Yourselves” comes to mind first off. Everyone who reads Rock n’ Roll View is aware that I’m a sucker for the grinders. Maybe it reminds me of teenage escapades with naked girls with Ted Nugent’s “Strangle Hold” playing. “Crime of Passion” is catchy and chugs along nicely and worthy of playing many times. There is the ballad (if Saxon has ballads) “Voice” which shows depth of songwriting and singing. “Voice” is a song about dreams and nightmares. You gotta love that. “Come Rock of Ages (The Circle is Complete)” is the classic Saxon song. Without question, this is the song that the fans want on a Saxon album. As I’ve mentioned, Saxon has never been one to repeat themselves, but there are those songs that are unmistakably Saxon.

The album finishes off with “Coming Home.” A bottleneck blues guitar version of the song that originally appeared on Killing Ground. A fitting finish that makes you wonder if the next album will be an acoustic offering. I’m up for it.

Saxon albums that I recommend:
Strong Arm of the Law
Wheels of Steel
The Eagle Has Landed (Live)
Crusader
Solid Ball of Rock
Dogs of War
Killing Ground

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