SAXON - SELF-TITLED - 12" LP Vinyl Album French Release

Saxon's eponymous 1979 debut, a cornerstone of the NWOBHM movement, signaled a new era in heavy metal. Released during a pivotal time, its raw production and anthemic tracks, like "Stallions of the Highway," left an indelible mark. The French 12" LP vinyl release added elegance, contributing to the album's enduring legacy as a pioneering force in British heavy metal.

 

SAXON - Self-Titled French Release 12" LP Vinyl Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

Album Description:

In the music scene of the late 1970s, Saxon emerged as one of the pioneers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). Among their notable releases, the self-titled album "Saxon" stands as a testament to the band's raw energy and distinctive sound. Released in 1979 as a 12" LP vinyl album on Carrere Records, the French edition of this iconic record showcases Saxon's early craftsmanship and hints at the band's future success.

The Rise of Saxon and the NWOBHM Movement:
Saxon burst onto the music scene at a time when rock music was undergoing a transformation. The late '70s witnessed the emergence of a new wave of British heavy metal, a movement characterized by the fusion of traditional heavy metal with punk and hard rock influences. Saxon, along with bands like Iron Maiden and Def Leppard, played a crucial role in shaping this movement and capturing the imaginations of a whole new generation of metalheads.

The Significance of the Self-Titled Album:
The self-titled "Saxon" album, released in 1979, marked the band's debut full-length studio effort. This record solidified Saxon's place within the NWOBHM movement and helped establish their unique musical identity. The French release on Carrere Records introduced their music to a wider European audience, expanding their reach beyond the UK.

Musical Style and Highlights:
"Saxon" captures the band's signature sound, combining heavy riffs, pounding drums, and powerful vocals. The album opens with the thunderous "Rainbow Theme", setting the stage for a relentless onslaught of hard-hitting tracks.

The Evolution of Saxon's Sound:
While their debut album laid the foundation for their future success, Saxon's subsequent releases would see them refining and evolving their sound. The band's ability to seamlessly incorporate melodic elements into their heavy metal framework became more evident in later albums like "Wheels of Steel" and "Strong Arm of the Law". These records would go on to define Saxon's classic sound and solidify their status as one of the leading forces in British heavy metal.

Legacy and Influence:
Saxon's self-titled album not only propelled them into the metal spotlight but also left an indelible mark on the genre as a whole. Their unique blend of raw energy, anthemic hooks, and memorable songwriting set the blueprint for countless metal bands that followed. Saxon's influence can be heard in the works of many subsequent metal acts, from thrash metal to power metal and beyond.

Music Genre:

NWOBHM New Wave Of British Heavy Metal 
Album Production information:

The album: "SAXON - S/T Self-Titled" was produced by: John Verity

John Verity born on 3 July 1949, in Bradford, West Yorkshire, is a pivotal figure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Renowned as a guitarist, vocalist, and producer, Verity played a crucial role in shaping the distinctive sound of NWOBHM. His contributions, both as a musician and behind the studio console, underscore his enduring impact on the evolution of British rock during this influential musical era.

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Musical Career:

Verity began his musical journey as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the band Argent in the early 1970s. Argent, known for hits like "Hold Your Head Up," provided Verity with a platform to showcase his skills as a versatile and dynamic performer. His time with Argent allowed him to establish himself as a prominent figure in the British rock scene.

Solo Career:

Following his stint with Argent, John Verity embarked on a solo career, releasing albums that showcased his proficiency in both rock and blues genres. His solo work includes albums like "Interrupted Journey" and "Truth of the Matter," where he continued to impress audiences with his soulful vocals and masterful guitar playing.

Producer Extraordinaire:

Beyond his role as a performer, Verity has made a mark as a producer, contributing to the creation of albums for various artists. His expertise in the studio has allowed him to work with musicians across different genres, helping them achieve the desired sound for their projects. Some of the heavy metal bands for which he produced albums include Saxon and Tank,

Collaborations and Versatility:

Verity's collaborative spirit and musical versatility are evident in the range of artists he has worked with over the years. Whether in the role of a guitarist, vocalist, or producer, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of music and a commitment to delivering high-quality performances.

Live Performances:

In addition to his studio work, John Verity has maintained a presence in the live music scene. His performances, marked by a charismatic stage presence and a genuine connection with the audience, have solidified his reputation as a captivating live performer.

Influence and Legacy:

John Verity's influence extends beyond his own discography. His work, both as a musician and a producer, has left an indelible mark on the rock and blues genres. Artists and fans alike continue to appreciate his contributions to the rich tapestry of British music.

 

Tape Operator: Robert Price

This album was recorded at: Livingstone Studios

Album cover design: Grafix

Album cover photography: Mike Ford, Dave Muscroft

Record Label & Catalognr:

Pink Carrere 67.331

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1979 Made in France
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SAXON - S/T Self-Titled
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Biff Byford - Vocals
  • Biff Byford – Vocals

    Saxon's iron-lung frontman since 1976, still turning choruses into marching orders.

    Biff Byford, Saxon's storm-tested voice, is the bloke who can turn a chorus into a pub chant and a battle order in the same breath. I first clock him in the mid-1970s fronting Son of a Bitch, then he takes the wheel when Saxon forms in 1976 and never really lets go. The NWOBHM years are where he stamps the passport: "Wheels of Steel" and "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980) push them into headliner territory, and "Denim and Leather" (1981) seals the tribe. The mid-80s gloss got purists grumbling, but he kept touring and recording through the 1990s. Later he went solo with "School of Hard Knocks" (2020) and formed Heavy Water with his son. He never sang like he was asking permission.

    Biff Byford Wiki
  • Graham Oliver - Guitar
  • Graham Oliver – Guitar

    Saxon co-founder (1976–1995), twin-lead architect, later keeping the flame alive with Oliver/Dawson Saxon.

    Graham Oliver, Saxon’s original lead guitarist, is the bloke who made those early twin-lead harmonies feel like two motorbikes racing down the same hill. I remember him from the Son of a Bitch days (mid-1970s), then as a Saxon founder from 1976 to 1995 through the classic NWOBHM punch—“Wheels of Steel” and “Strong Arm of the Law” (1980), “Denim and Leather” (1981)—where his tone stayed bright, sharp, and just a bit reckless. After leaving, the band-name dispute turned into paperwork warfare. From the late 1990s into the 2000s he resurfaced with Oliver/Dawson Saxon, keeping the old songs alive with Steve Dawson. Not tidy. Not polite. Very Oliver.

    Graham Oliver Wiki
  • Paul Quinn - Guitar
  • Paul Quinn – Guitar

    Founding Saxon guitarist (1975–present; not touring since 2023) with riffs that hit like a rivet gun.

    Paul Quinn is the quiet engine of Saxon, a Barnsley guitarist who helped turn late-70s pub grit into NWOBHM muscle. I first clock him in Son of a Bitch (1975-1978), then in Saxon from 1978 onward, locking riffs with Graham Oliver while Biff Byford barked the orders. The early run hit like a double punch: "Wheels of Steel" and "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980), then "Denim and Leather" (1981) when the scene became a tribe. He kept the machine running through the 80s and into the early 90s, even when labels wanted polish and the fans wanted blood. In 2023 he stepped back from touring; Brian Tatler took the live seat, while Quinn stayed on for studio work. Sensible, sure. Still stings.

    Paul Quinn Wiki
  • Steve Dawson - Bass
  • Steve "Dobby" Dawson – Bass guitar

    I still hear his bass under "Wheels of Steel" like motorway rumble you can't un-hear.

    Steve "Dobby" Dawson, is the Sheffield-born low-end anchor who helped turn pub-blues into full-bore NWOBHM thunder. My first note on him is Blue Condition (1970-1974), tightening into SOB (1974-1975), then Son of a Bitch (1975-1978) before the name finally snapped into Saxon (1978-1986). On record he's the calm steel beam under the early classics, locking in the kick, nudging the chorus, and leaving space for the twin guitars to do their hooligan dance. Worker's punch: steady eighth-notes, clean runs, backing vocals when needed, and absolutely no 'look at me' nonsense. After 1986 he reunited with Graham Oliver for Oliver/Dawson Saxon (1996-2021), touring and recording to keep the original-era spark alive.

    Steve "Dobby" Dawson Wiki
  • Pete Gill - Drums
  • Pete Gill – Drums

    I always liked drummers who hit like they mean it, and Gill was built for the job.

    Pete Gill, Sheffield drummer with a backbeat like a rivet gun, is the original engine behind Saxon's early charge. I first clock him as one of The Glitter Band's twin drummers (1973), then grinding it out in Son of a Bitch (1977–1979) before the badge changed to Saxon (1979–1981). Those first four studio albums don't breathe without his boots-on-concrete timing—straight, hard, and built for denim-and-leather choruses. A hand injury ended his first Saxon run in 1981, but he didn't fade; he jumped into Motörhead from 1984–1987, recording the new tracks for "No Remorse", the live "The Birthday Party", and the album "Orgasmatron". He returned for one last blast in 1996 with Oliver and Dawson's Son of a Bitch, laying drums on "Victim You".

    Pete Gill Wiki
Complete Track-listing of the album "SAXON - S/T Self-Titled"

The detailed tracklist of this record "SAXON - S/T Self-Titled" is:

    Track-listing:
  1. "Rainbow Theme" 3:07
  2. "Frozen Rainbow" 2:29
  3. "Big Teaser" 3:55
  4. "Judgement Day" 5:31
  5. "Stallions of the Highway" 2:52
  6. "Backs to the Wall" 3:09
  7. "Still Fit to Boogie" 2:53
  8. "Militia Guard" 4:50

Saxon: Revving Up the New Wave of British Heavy Metal - A Discography

SAXON - Anthology album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Anthology

Saxon's 'Anthology,' a monumental compilation, emerged in the musical landscape of 1988. The British Heavy Metal icons unveiled this masterpiece as a 12" double LP, a testament to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) era. The anthology encapsulates the band's prowess, offering an auditory journey

Anthology 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Back on the Streets album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Back on the Streets

In the mid-1980s, British heavy metal band Saxon released an extended 12" vinyl maxi-single featuring two tracks, "Back on the Streets (Extended Version)" and "Live Fast Die Young". This release aimed to capitalize on the success of their album "Innocence Is No Excuse" and further solidify their position

Back on the Streets 12" Vinyl Maxi
SAXON - Crusader album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Crusader

Saxon's "Crusader," a hallmark of NWOBHM in 1984, exemplifies the genre's evolution. Produced by Kevin Beamish, known for his 1980s metal expertise, the 12" Gatefold vinyl offers a tactile journey. This album, a blend of anthems and experimentation, embodies the era's heavy metal spirit.

Crusader 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Denim and Leather album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Denim and Leather

In the early 1980s, amidst a burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal scene, Saxon released their iconic album "Denim and Leather" on 12" vinyl LP. This album solidified their standing in the genre and became an anthem for the burgeoning heavy metal community.

Denim and Leather 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed (Canadian and French Releases) album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed (Canadian and French Releases)

Released as a 12" vinyl LP album, this live recording transports listeners back to a time when heavy metal was forging its identity, a genre marked by unbridled passion, piercing guitar solos, and anthemic vocals. The early 1980s were a defining period for metal, witnessing the rise of iconic bands

- The Eagle has Landed Live (1982, Canada) - The Eagle Has Landed Live (1982, France)
SAXON - Innocence Is No Excuse album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Innocence Is No Excuse

Saxon's "Innocence Is No Excuse," a seminal British Heavy Metal masterpiece, emerged in 1985 as the band's seventh studio album. Marking their debut with EMI post a rift with Carrere Records, the LP showcases Saxon's resilience and evolution. Its tracks resonate with powerful guitar riffs and anthemic vocal

Innocence Is No Excuse 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Power and the Glory album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Power and the Glory

The late 1970s and early 1980s marked a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal, giving rise to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. This movement, characterized by a raw and energetic sound, emerged as a reaction to the perceived stagnation in the rock and metal scenes of the time.

Power and the Glory 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Rock The Nations (British and German Releases) album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Rock The Nations (British and German Releases)

Saxon's 1986 release, 'Rock The Nations,' epitomizes the NWOBHM era's spirit. Recorded at Wisseloord Studios, the album, featuring Elton John on select tracks, is a testament to Saxon's musical prowess. The production quality at Hilversum elevated their raw sound, contributing to their status as NWOBHM

- Rock the Nations (1986, England) - Rock The Nations (1986, Germany)

SAXON - S/T Self-Titled album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - S/T Self-Titled

Saxon burst onto the music scene at a time when rock music was undergoing a transformation. The late '70s witnessed the emergence of a new wave of British heavy metal, a movement characterized by the fusion of traditional heavy metal with punk and hard rock influences.

SAXON - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Strong Arm Metal, Saxon's Greatest Hits album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Strong Arm Metal, Saxon's Greatest Hits

SAXON's "Strong Arm Metal" is not just an album; it's a journey through the very essence of heavy metal. Released during a period when the genre was exploding with creativity and innovation, the album compiles some of the band's most iconic tracks, showcasing their ability to craft anthems

Strong Arm Metal, Saxon's Greatest Hits 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Strong Arm of the Law album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Strong Arm of the Law

Saxon's 1980 album "Strong Arm of the Law," released on Carrere Records in France, encapsulates the dynamic early 1980s metal scene. A product of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, the album's production on a 12" vinyl LP resonates with the era's analog warmth.

Strong Arm of the Law 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Wheels of Steel (Multiple International Versions) album front cover vinyl record
SAXON - Wheels of Steel (Multiple International Versions)

The release of "Wheels of Steel" by the British Heavy Metal band SAXON in 1980 marked a significant moment in the history of the genre. This iconic album, recorded at Ramport Studios in London, UK, and produced by Pete Hinton and Saxon themselves, became a cornerstone in the metal landscape.

- Wheels of Steel (1980, England) - Wheels of Steels ( 1980, Europe ) - Wheels of Steel (1980, France) - Wheels of Steel (1980, USA)